Best Pubs in Fitzroy

Most of Fitzroy’s oldest pubs were first licensed in the mid-1860s – The Napier, The Standard and The Marquis of Lorne to name a few – and it’s a credit to those pubs and their dedicated operators that they’re still among the best in the suburb.

Fitzroy’s pubs – like all good pubs – play a strong role in the local community. The Workers Club and The Evelyn host gigs featuring up-and-comers alongside established acts; gastropubs such as The Rose and Andrew McConnell’s Builders Arms serve as both meeting places and slightly elevated restaurants; and party pubs such as The Rochester just bring the good vibes.

Related pages
Best Pubs in Collingwood
Best Bars in Fitzroy

Words by
Updated on 10 May 2024

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Marquis of Lorne

This three-level pub – which has stood for more than 150 years – is one of Melbourne’s best. It’s an ideal spot for a feed or knock-off pint, whether you’re in the front bar, upstairs in the dining room, or soaking rays on the rooftop.

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The Napier Hotel

Locals get misty-eyed when you mention the Napier, such is the respect for this backstreet corner pub. The menu is pure comfort, and the interior is full of pressed metal and Australiana kitsch. It’s the kind of local every suburb needs.

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The Standard

Fitzroy’s dense with pubs, but The Standard commands one of the suburb’s fiercest followings. Rusted-on locals pack the all-weather beer garden (the owners claim it’s Melbourne’s biggest), and the front bar feels warm and lived in.

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The Rochey

The northside watering hole has been re-imagined once more. Its slick gastro-pub menu boasts wasabi scotch eggs and a buttermilk brine parma, plus cocktail jugs for the table. Don’t worry, DJs still rule the weekend.

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Builders Arms Hotel

Under the stewardship of star chef Andrew McConnell, this classic bar and dining room in a heritage building feels as vital as ever. Throw back easy-drinking lagers and cocktails with a burger or the rotisserie of the day.

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Fitzroy Town Hall Hotel

This is one of Melbourne’s most underrated pubs, where veteran chef Sean Donovan blends French techniques with Aussie barbeque. The historic hotel has a casual front bar, two dining rooms and an untouched wine cellar.

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The Workers Club

A comfortable and understated local pub with live music.

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The Union Club Hotel

While a new wave of revamped pubs adopts the retro look, this old boozer has no need. Its old paintings, retro couches and warm red walls fit the bill. But it’s the pool table and cheesy parmas that locals return for.

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The Evelyn

A live music staple in the centre of Fitzroy.

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The Rose

Fitzroy’s oldest pub is for the old guard and the new. You’ll find footy fans gathered around the TVs on game days. When the vibe’s right, it’s like you’ve got 100 mates, 16 beer taps and better-than-usual food in your lounge room.

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Labour in Vain

The best-named pub in town is focused squarely on two of Fitzroy’s biggest obsessions: live music and beer. There’s no kitchen or TV here, making it a no-frills hangout with good local tunes, lively conversation and many games of pool.

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The Stone Hotel

A historic Fitzroy pub with a modern interior.

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The Rainbow Hotel
Established in 1869, this historic pub has been serving its local constituency for more than 150 years. These days it attracts a young, exuberant crowd with a nice list of craft beers, vegan and meaty burgers, and a generous beer garden that fills up fast on summer nights.

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