Melbourne’s Top Spots for Gin

Melbourne is known for some wonderfully weird, witty and just plain fun bars and, when it comes to gin, the goods are certainly delivered.

Gin is a well-loved (more like adored) tipple and is the drink of choice for many. Even if it’s not number one on the ordering list, many people will have at least one at some time in the night.

This is why it’s imperative that we seek out the best spots in Melbourne springing some great bottles of the beloved booze. Gin, gin, WIN, we say!

It’s an important task to seek out the best gin joints and offer your mates the beautiful gin-filled prize at the end. However, there are so many other factors at play such as music, ambience, and finding a good spot to sit and sip so the pressure is high!

Here are our top tips for the establishments that cater to all in search of great gin bevs.

Gin Lane

New to the Melbourne bar block is Gin Lane and they sure bring the good times. This two-storey establishment is home to over 400 gins. No more information is needed for gin lovers, really. But just an added side note …. the food and cocktails are fantastic!

Where: 19-21 Bourke Street

Gin Palace

An oldie but a goodie, Gin Palace is a lovely mix of nostalgia, vintage vibes and cool and calm. All with a gin in hand.

Where: 10 Russell Place

1806

Gin is often enjoyed more in a certain setting. 1806 was once an iconic theatre restaurant so definitely brings the dramatic vibe. Also, take note of the drinks menu, it’s a fantastically fabulous history lesson.

Where: 169 Exhibition Street

Lily Blacks

Head to the edge of Chinatown and bask in the art deco joy that is Lily Blacks. Staff wear caps and suspenders and the space brings the vibe in spades with antique lamps, mirrors and a hefty gin offering.

Where: 12-18 Meyers Place

Eau de Vie

Eau de Vie brings a certain Prohibition-era clandestine class. Opt for a private booth or sit amongst the everyday folk while hailing to the dapper wait staff. It can be awfully busy, which is not a bad thing as it means it’s good, but it’s worth any wait for all the charm and gin-fully good times it can bring.

Where: 1 Malthouse Lane

These are but a few out of a brilliant bountiful bunch. Other great gin-serving establishments in Melbourne include Rooftop at QT Melbourne, Romeo Lane, Berlin Bar and Bad Frankie, to name a few.

words by emily carstairs