Sip Happens: Best Happy Hours in Melbourne
Melbourne knows how to do happy hour properly. Riverside spritzes are in large supply here, as are hidden CBD cocktail bars. In short, the city’s after-work ritual is all about great drinks and buzzy specials.
So whether you’re in the mood for a few classic cocktails or scouting out the best happy hour Melbourne CBD spots that could turn into a long night, these venues are proof that timing really is everything. Here’s where to sip and snack while the deals are good and the vibes are even better.
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It's perfect for Sunday arvo sessions and clever cocktails with a twist.You need to try the confit duck leg or prawn toast.Look out for the old bank vault turned booth — very Brunswick.Read moreHoused in a beautifully restored former bank, Teller is a go-to for locals chasing a relaxed happy hour Melbourne experience (4pm–6pm, Mon–Fri). This Brunswick favourite crafts Mediterranean-inspired plates with playful cocktails, all served in light-filled spaces and a cosy laneway. Weekday afternoons see elderflower and thyme spritzes ($12), negronis ($12) and house lagers ($8 pints) flowing alongside snacks meant for sharing. It’s casual and welcoming – perfect for easing out of work mode without rushing the moment.
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It's perfect for pizza purists and vino lovers who know what’s good.You need to try the wood-fired Diavola or truffle mushroom pizza.Look out for the Limoncello spritz on tap and the buzzing laneway energyRead moreA Fitzroy institution, Ladro brings Italian charm to happy hour Melbourne with $9 limoncello spritzes, $7 wines and cheap tap lagers to boot. Loved for its wood-fired pizzas and relaxed vibe, Ladro’s Sunday happy hour (3pm–6pm) is all about great drops paired with Italian bites. The atmosphere is social and unfussy, which is perfect for lingering conversations. Consider it a strong contender for the best happy hour Melbourne has to offer.
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Read moreStep off the CBD streets and into State of Grace for a layered happy hour experience (5pm–7pm, Mon–Wed). Spread across multiple levels, it’s a venue offering everything from a lively street-level bar to hidden cellar spaces. With classic beers and wines, as well as approachable specials, it’s an easy choice for CBD workers who want quality drinks in a setting that feels indulgent without being intimidating.
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It's perfect for tapas‑and‑cocktail missions that feel effortlessly glamorous on the water’s edge.You need to try wood‑fired Spanish‑Italian share plates and a cocktail that packs style with every sip.Look out for its cargo‑hall charm, sunny riverside terrace, and impressive drinks list.Read moreSet inside South Wharf’s historic cargo halls, Plus 5 is all about riverside energy and generous specials. Wood-fired aromas, share plates and a sunny terrace make it perfect for relaxed afternoons that slide into nighttime. Their long list of specials change frequently – grab a $15 cocktail on ‘Tight As Tuesday’ or bottomless pizza and cocktails on weekend afternoons for just $59. This is happy hour Melbourne done at scale – great for groups or spontaneous knock-off drinks by the Yarra.
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Read moreMarmont’s golden-hour (4pm–6pm, Tues–Fri) appeal is in its laid-back California influence and prime Southbank positioning. As the sun dips below the horizon, the terrace fills with $12 spritzes, $8 tap beers and $10 wines – not to mention a cheeky $16 negroni. The atmosphere is breezy and social, which is why it’s such a favourite for post-work catch-ups.
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It's perfect for nights when you want to feel like royalty—but Mediterranean style.You need to try the Lebanese-Mediterranean hits that keep locals coming back.Look out for its award‑winning reputation and sleek bar ambience.Read moreByblos turns happy hour Melbourne into a Mediterranean-inspired affair. With waterfront views and weekday drink specials ($7.50 wines and spirits; $10 beers) it’s a refined option for after-work drinks. Pair your inexpensive drinks with delicious Middle Eastern flavours for a memorable evening that you’ll definitely want to return to.
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Read moreBlackbird plates up polished sophistication with the best happy hour Melbourne CBD conversations. Set across multiple levels on Flinders Lane, its Aperitivo Hour is all about slowing down with a well-made martini and a tasty snack for just $25 (4pm–6pm, Mon–Fri). The sunken lounge is an elegant setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle outside – the perfect way to start your evening.
Melbourne has everything when it comes to happy hour options – from riverside terraces to hidden CBD bars. With endless ways to unwind, you’ll have no trouble finding a spot that serves up great food and drink on a budget.