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The Best Bars in Richmond

Updated 2 months ago

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Few suburbs light up like Richmond does on game days. When the footy’s on, the area’s pubs – some old school, some new – come alive with fans. But even outside of that, it’s one of the best parts of Melbourne for a parma and a pint. The suburb’s working class history sees to that, with pubs cited on all the key corners. More recently the area has welcomed cocktail and wine bars, such as Clover and Lilac Wine. Those spots, along with breweries like Mountain Goat and Nice Guys, mean there’s something for just about everyone here. For all of the above, tick off this list of Richmond’s best bars, expertly curated by Broadsheet’s food and drink editors.

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  • Atlas Vinifera

    Shop

    An ambitious bar and bottle shop showcasing rare drops from around the world. Buy a bottle, pay corkage and park on a stool at the long countertop bar, or hop on a three-glass wine flight if you're feeling adventurous.

  • The Bridge Hotel Richmond

    Restaurant

    This unusual, labyrinthine pub – with a convincing replica of cobbled street running right through it – is reliably packed on weekends. Find your way upstairs for commercial house and pop and a fairly intimate dance floor.

    Book a Table

  • Brogan's Way Distillery

    Bar

    The father-daughter duo behind Brogan’s Way believe there’s a gin for everyone. Yours may well be the distillery’s Strawberries and Cream gin, served in a Martini or G&T. Watch the distillers in action over plates of crisp, European-style flatbreads and gin-friendly bar snacks.

  • Clover

    Bar

    A charming, light-filled wine bar from two Melbourne hospitality veterans. Expect French-leaning fare driven by razor-sharp technique. Plus an excellent wine list spanning Australia, France, Italy and Germany.

    Book a Table

  • The Collection

    Bar

    A Cajun-inspired bar with a serious approach to booze.

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  • Corner Hotel

    Bar

    You’re not a live music fan in Melbourne unless you’ve been to the Corner. The room – and its infamous solitary column – is rightfully an icon. But did you know it also has a killer rooftop and beer garden upstairs?

  • The Royston Hotel

    Bar

    The Terminus Hotel’s secluded little sister is a true locals’ haunt (spot them sprawled on couches and huddled around communal tables). It’s mastered pub staples like parmas and steaks, which pair well with the many beers on tap.

  • Lilac Wine Bar

    Bar

    Named after a classic Jeff Buckley song, this grungy warehouse wine bar feels like a dinner party in a New York loft apartment. Come for nostalgic dishes with a French bistro lean, music played on vinyl and plenty of interesting wine.

  • Fargo and Co.

    Bar

    This former Commonwealth Bank branch is now 200-seat double-level bar. Come here for classic pub grub and beers. It's also well known for its rooftop terrace, which plays host to bottomless brunches during the day and boozy cocktail session in the evenings.

  • Mountain Goat Brewery

    Bar

    Victoria’s second-oldest craft brewery is still one of its best. Head here for pizza and drinks to find out for yourself.

  • Nice Guys Brewery & Bar

    Bar

    Grant Morley was a scientist before he ran a brewery. His scientific precision shines through at his 70s-designed brewpub – where you’ll find tropical-tasting hazy IPAs, American pale ales, English dark milds and more. You can even enjoy a pint with food from one of the excellent nearby restaurants.

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  • The Palm Royale

    Bar

    Tricked up Cuban cocktails in a vibrant space.

  • Prince Alfred Hotel Richmond

    Restaurant

    There’s always action in the Prince’s grand front bar, but it’s the breezy, shaded beer garden that really commands the crowds. It’s a south-side magnet, so get down early if you plan to eat your burger or a steak at a table.

  • Royal Saxon

    Bar

    The crowd-pleasing pizzas are a big draw here, as are the customisable parmas (we like it spicy). And on weekends, the open-air courtyard is where it’s at, especially if there’s a DJ around.

  • The Ugly Duckling

    Bar

    Dark tones and dim lights set the mood at this casual yet sophisticated wine and cocktail bar. Bar food might include imported cheese, salumi or kingfish crudo. Enjoy their humble dishes alongside classic cocktails such as the Singapore Sling, and more seasonal creative mixes.

  • Union House

    Bar

    Another polished pub by the Marquis of Lorne crew. As at its sibling spots, there are plenty of spaces to settle in, including a downstairs bar with craft and classic beers, a dining room with pub and bistro menus, and a rooftop.

  • Lenny’s

    Bar

    Like many bars, the idea for Lenny’s formed over a drinks with friends. Buy a bottle to drink in or takeaway. You can order pizza from neighbouring Homeslice and enjoy it in the courtyard, on the footpath or inside.