One step removed from the legions of bars on Brunswick Street is a cosy lounge with a comfortable couch, laid-back ambience and beaded lamps radiating red ochre. Indeed, Gertrudes Brown Couch is about as unpretentious as its name suggests.

Linger on the 'love seat', hang out at the bar or take advantage of the communal booths. On a warmer night, the courtyard is also an attractive option. The walls are lined with various sketches of horses and empty gold frames, and retro board games are scattered about on tables, waiting to be played.

The wine list is short but far from staid and promotes a range of Victorian and South Australian wines. There’s beer on tap, solid liquor and standard pub food options.

But the venue's real heart and soul rests upstairs with its live music venue, which supports the vibrant local music scene. The venue showcases local bands between Thursdays and Saturdays.

A dive bar in the true sense of the term, Gertrudes Brown Couch offers a good time minus the frills.