The only thing cooler than drinking gin these days is opening a gin distillery. Here are the finest places in town to get sipping and start dreaming.
Gin Palace
Established in 1997, Gin Palace was among the pioneers of Melbourne’s bar renaissance, and years ahead of the gin curve. From a simple, classic Gin Rickey to complex contemporary cocktails, there’s still no better place to play with this beguiling spirit. The decor leans toward Great Gatsby glamour, and if you like gin, you’re welcome.
Adelphi Four Pillars Fridays
The Adelphi Hotel’s rooftop has had a stylish renovation, complete with all-new cantilevered, glass-bottomed swimming pool peeping over Flinders Lane. In partnership with an acclaimed Victorian craft distillery, they’re celebrating with Adelphi Four Pillars Fridays. There’s a dedicated gin-and-tonic menu and deluxe barbecue bites from Om Nom Kitchen downstairs. Get in early to make a splash: entry is free and there’s only space for 60!
Four Pillars Gin Fridays at Adelphi Rooftop pool
The Mill House Gin Club
Whether you’re a gin-thusiast or just gin-curious, The Mill House Bar is the place to be on Thursdays. There are no membership fees or secret handshakes required to be part of their weekly gin club. Just slide a tenner across the bar for one of their crafty gin creations, and you’re in!
Nordic Gin Experience and Cocktail Class
Cocktail on arrival. Gin tastings and masterclass. Three canapés. A cocktail class where you make then drink three more fancy drinkies. $65. What, what, what?! That’s right, all this for $65! No wonder February’s Nordic Gin Experience and Cocktail Class at Henry and the Fox has sold out. Get clicking to be part of the March session.
Nordic Gin experience and cocktail class at Henry and the Fox
Pilgrim Bar
Based in some historic Federation Wharf vaults, Pilgrim Bar’s really all about what happens out the front, by the river, alfresco-style. Kick back and soak up the view with some summery bites and drinks. They’ve got a generous list of liquid moonlight by Australian distillers, including mulberry gin from Kangaroo Island Spirits. Hop to it!
Waterside Hotel
Have you been to the Waterside Hotel’s rooftop? On hot summer days and balmy nights, head upstairs for super city views and a Waterside G&T or two. Tanqueray gin, house tonic, fresh orange and mint, served tall in a wine glass. Drop the mic, bartender, your work is done!
The Waterside G & T at the Waterside Hotel
Looking for more?
Other Melbourne bars with a nose for fine gin include 1806, one of the city’s classiest cocktail dens. If you enjoy gin classics like the Southside, Aviation or Tom Collins, no one shakes ‘em better. Rooftop bar Madame Brussels is a cheeky urban take on the English garden party, so of course gin is highly fancied. Order a jug of the fruity Gin Garden and start giggling, girls and boys! The Luftwaffe Sour is Berlin Bar’s gin-tastic take on the whisky sour. Will you sip one in their luxe West Berlin room or stark East Berlin zone?