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Best Pubs in Fitzroy

Updated September 29th, 2022

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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

  • Marquis of Lorne

    Bar

    This classic pub – which has stood on its corner for over 150 years – is one of Melbourne's best. The three-level hotel is the ideal place for a good feed or a knock-off pint in the sun, whether you're downstairs in the front bar, upstairs in the dining room, or soaking in rays on the rooftop.

  • The Napier Hotel

    Bar

    Locals get a little misty-eyed when you mention the Napier, such is the respect for this backstreet corner pub. Decked out in pressed metal and a hodgepodge of Australiana kitsch, it’s the kind of local every suburb should have. The menu here is pure comfort, and the daily specials often hit double digits.

  • The Standard

    Bar

    Fitzroy is dense with community 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 the biggest in Melbourne), and the exposed-brick front bar feels warm and lived in.

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  • The Rochester Hotel

    Bar

    Previously known as The Rochester Castle this place has never lost its party pub reputation. DJs own the place on weekends, but the menu of slick pub favourites means it’s equally suited for a quiet midweek feed. It also has plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces to choose from.

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  • Builders Arms Hotel

    Bar

    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

    Restaurant

    Veteran chef Sean Donovan has taken the historical hotel back to its roots with a casual front bar, two separate dining rooms, and an untouched wine cellar. The cuisine blends classic French technique with Australian barbeque.

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  • The Workers Club

    Bar

    A comfortable and understated local pub with live music.

  • The Union Club Hotel

    Bar

    An archetypical inner-city pub in the back streets of Fitzroy.

  • The Evelyn

    Bar

    A live music staple in the centre of Fitzroy.

  • The Rose

    Bar

    The proverbial rose between thorns, Fitzroy’s oldest pub is one for the old guard and the new. You’ll find footy fans gathered around the TV in the bar on game days, amid walls lined with AFL memorabilia. When the vibe is right, it feels like you’ve got 100 mates, 16 beer taps and better-than-usual food in your own lounge room.

  • Labour in Vain

    Bar

    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.

  • The Stone Hotel

    Bar

    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.