The Best Bars in St Kilda
On a warm night, St Kilda’s bars are packed with revellers. But the variety in the area means that it’s not just a summery destination for a drink. In recent years, iconic local favourites the Saint Hotel and The Prince Hotel have been reinvigorated – and now offer something for everyone across intimate wine bars, diners with refined pub grub and a listening bar that plays into the early hours. And between The Espy and the Prince Bandroom, there are plenty of bars where you can see a gig. Here are some of our favourites.
Bar
The Espy
You might need a map to navigate this iconic seaside pub. Across its five floors, you’ll find multiple bars and two restaurants. Not to mention three stages for live music, including the legendary Gershwin Room.
Restaurant
Saint George
An upmarket pub with serious barbeque skills.
Bar
The Prince Public Bar
The iconic Prince of Wales Hotel has lived many lives. Today, it’s the best version of itself, with a beautiful island bar, bistro pub fare, and plenty of footpath seating for pints and people-watching in the sun.
Bar
Little Prince Wine
A Euro-inspired wine bar, wine shop and deli set beneath The Prince Hotel. Enjoy classic Australian and European wines; cheese, charcuterie and small snacking plates from the deli; and descend to one of Melbourne’s most impressive wine cellars.
Bar
Overlook
A “Kubrick-y” bar next to the Astor Theatre.
Bar
Bar Di Stasio
A polished bar by the team behind right next door Café Di Stasio.
Bar
The Nelson Rum Bar
Rums from Trinidad, Martinique, Barbados and Nicaragua.
Restaurant
Newmarket Hotel
17 beer taps and cocktail jugs.
Restaurant
Milk the Cow
180 cheeses and wines to match.
Bar
Freddie Wimpoles
The former George Hotel has a new life.
Bar
The Lion & Wombat
At this neighbourhood pub, enjoy traditional English fare – including Scotch eggs, fish finger sandwiches, and classic roasts – while sipping on a cocktail inspired by a cup of tea.
Bar
Chronicles Bar
This bar is a true local’s haunt. Friends, family and neighbours gather out front or up at the timber-clad bar to have a yarn, sip on a Victorian ale and order in food from nearby restaurants.
