The largest congestion of venues lies on and around the bustling and hectic Bruswick Street where you have no trouble finding a cocktail, craft beer or nightclub to suit. The area is renowned for its bohemian and often alternative culture which makes it the perfect centre for the Melbourne Fringe Festival.
Other streets in the area where you will find groups of nightlife venues include Smith Street & Wellington Street, both of which are parallel to Brunswick street and in all cases most of the activity lies towards the city end.
The Commercial Club Hotel is located on the corner of Nicholson & Westgarth Streets in the inner Melbourne suburb of Fitzroy. It is an unpretentious pub where the art of good conversation is as important as a good cold beer or a fine quality meal.
Above Board is Collingwood’s hidden temple to cocktail perfection—a sleek, minimalist bar perched above the buzz of Smith Street. Tucked away on Level 1 of a bottle shop, this intimate venue by acclaimed bartender Hayden Lambert strips things back to the essentials: no menus, no clutter, just expertly crafted drinks and refined service. With only 12 seats circling the central bar, it’s a personalised experience where every pour is thoughtful, deliberate, and award-winning. This is Melbourne mixology at its most honest.
A bold and stylish reimagining of the classic Melbourne corner pub, The Gertrude Hotel brings elevated hospitality to the heart of Fitzroy’s creative strip. With its open-plan kitchen, beautifully refurbished interiors, and polished wine list, it’s a dining-focused pub where locals gather for more than just a pint. From woodfired dishes to refined pub classics and sleek bar snacks, this modern public house fuses personality, sophistication, and approachability in one of the city’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.