The Best Pubs in Melbourne CBD for a Bevvy and a Bite

For many Melbournians, popping into a pub is the best way to unwind on the weekend, or after a hard day at work. With a casual, fuss-free vibe, these humble haunts beckon us to come in and relax with the help of an ice-cold bevvy and a crispy schnitty, or fare that’s on the fancier side. The city’s pub scene is packed with everything from old-school boozers and gastropubs to beer gardens, rooftops and party pubs.

So next time you’re in need of a beer and a break, head to one of the best pubs in Melbourne CBD.

Quarterhouse

Smack in the thick of the CBD at Southern Cross Station, Quarterhouse is Melbourne’s gleaming new three-level pub built for the big crowds and bigger appetites. On the ground floor, it’s all about modern pub classics—think parmas, steaks with umami butter, and a blue cheese-laced signature burger—served beside a mammoth 4-metre LED screen. Upstairs, you’ll find a sunlit terrace and event-ready function spaces, while the rooftop (coming soon) promises city views and cocktail clout. Slick, spacious, and seriously versatile—Quarterhouse is Docklands’ new go-to for everything from after-work pints to weekend sessions watching the footy with friends.

693 Collins Street, Docklands

The Drunken Poet

Just a jig from the CBD, The Drunken Poet is more than a pub—it’s a proper institution. Tucked beside Queen Vic Market, this West Melbourne gem hums with Irish soul: dim-lit, whiskey-warmed, and alive with song six nights a week. The walls are lined with poets, the Guinness is textbook, and the welcome’s always warm. There’s no kitchen flash here—just a toastie, a pint, and charm you can’t fake. A must-visit for any pub connoisseur worth their salt.

65 Peel Street, West Melbourne

The Lincoln

Just a stone’s throw from the CBD, The Lincoln is an old-world charmer—with a pint in one hand and a pedigree in the other. Pouring since 1854, it wears its history well: Art Deco bones, polished brass, and the gentle hum of proper pub life. But this isn’t just a nod to the past. The kitchen delivers food that’s bold, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying—devilled eggs, scamorza and garlic shoot croquettes, schnitzel with herb butter, beef and red wine pie, Sunday roasts with Yorkshire pud, and house-made pickles. A rare pub where the beer’s cold, the wine’s sharp, and the food’s the real draw.

91 Cardigan Street, Carlton

Morris House

Formerly the European Bier Cafe, this refurbed inner city boozer has quickly cemented itself as one of the best pubs in Melbourne CBD. Morris House, which has undergone a 4-million dollar transformation, is set across four floors.

Expect comedy in the NYC-style basement, elevated dining on the entry level, live music on the first floor and glorious views of the city on its sprawling, leafy rooftop. Pair the slushy-style Iced VoVo margarita with house-made focaccia and a classic burrata with pickled veggies for the perfect knock-off treat.

120 Exhibition Street, Melbourne

The Mitre Tavern

The Mitre Tavern, housed in Melbourne’s oldest building dating back to the 19th century, is a true gem among the best pubs in Melbourne CBD. With a spacious beer garden, warm ambience, and a rustic bistro serving gourmet burgers, it’s the perfect spot for a casual night out.

As one of the city’s most beloved meeting places, you’ll find a diverse crowd enjoying everything from casual Friday night drinks to perfectly charred steaks.

Step through its centuries-old doors to experience delicious pub fare alongside a rich, storied history that evokes the charm of an old-world English pub. Don’t miss this iconic tavern!

5 Bank Place, Melbourne

The Natural History Public Bar 

The CBD’s best-kept secret is The Natural History Public Bar. This charming pub, inspired by classic museums of the world, features red and black checkered floors, stained glass windows, and an impressive 15-metre diorama showcasing mountain goats, deer, and various birdlife.

Tuck into their refined pub menu, complete with a dedicated steak section, excellent vegetarian options, and weekly specials like steak, burger, and fish and chip nights.

It’s a fantastic spot for a lively round of trivia with friends or hosting memorable events in a unique setting. Relaxed, fun, and undeniably charming, this is a must-visit pub in Melbourne CBD.

401 Collins Street, Melbourne 

The Sherlock Holmes

One of the treasures of the Melbourne CBD pub scene, the Sherlock Holmes Inn is a charming British-style pub that transports you straight to ye olde London. Descend into the basement to uncover a cosy atmosphere, where 19 beers on tap await alongside an impressive selection of classic pub fare. Relish a hearty Sunday roast, a thick and tender parmigiana, or one of their famous homemade pies, all perfectly paired with a pint of imported British ale or a delightful local wine.

Sitchu Tip: Call upon the doctor if you’re looking for a chic twist. That’s right, on the ground level sits Dr Watson’s Bar, and it’s a brilliant spot for cocktails and finger food while watching the city hustle by. 

415 Collins Street, Melbourne 

Kirk’s Pub

Tucked away just off Hardware Lane, Kirk’s Pub is the charming little sibling of Kirk’s Wine Bar. This hidden gem offers a fantastic selection of wines and beers, perfect for post-work drinks, along with some of the best hot chips in town. Ever wanted to try a blue-hued sour beer? This is your spot!

The shareable dishes are a delight, featuring the likes of pickled mussels with charred sourdough, charcuterie, scotch eggs, and arancini. If the spicy mussels are on the menu, don’t miss out!

A cosy spot next to a wine bar, Kirk’s Pub is truly a standout pub in Melbourne CBD worth celebrating!

382 Little Bourke Street, Melbourne

The Black Prince Pub & Grill

Settle into this oh-so-delicious Indian pub in Melbourne’s CBD. It’s a fantastic spot for every day happy hours, fantastic spritzes and cocktails, live sport watching, and delectable curries. 

Food wise, The Black Prince offers Pakistani, Lahori and North Indian, and Anglo-Indian Royalty cuisines – so you can get your hit of spice from sizzler plates to samosa, Amritsar spiced fish and chips to Kashmir style goat Rogan Josh. 

A warm, inviting energy, outdoor seating and live music on weekends ensure that this is one of the best pubs in Melbourne CBD that needs to be on your must-try list. 

45 Bourke Street, Melbourne

Captain Melville

For over 150 years, Captain Melville has been Melbourne’s oldest public house, welcoming revelers with its iconic bluestone walls and impressive selection of classic and unique brews. Satisfy your cravings with elevated pub grub, including Korean fried chicken wings, pasta, parmas, and curries.

Head upstairs to Loch and Key, a cosy hideaway with warm wood finishes and intimate booths for private chats. Open until 5am on weekends, it’s also the perfect spot for late-night fun. 

34 Franklin Street, Melbourne

The Garden State Hotel

Epic, four-storey pub The Garden State Hotel is a lush oasis and one of the best pubs in Melbourne CBD. Glowing spherical lights and full trees bloom from within their central atrium, while vines and planters make the whole place feel like a magical indoor garden. An intimate cocktail bar downstairs and sprawling spaces above mean plenty of cosy nooks to hide away in even as the hotel reaches heaving capacity towards the end of the week.

101 Flinders Lane, Melbourne

Imperial Hotel

The best pubs in Melbourne CBD consistently draw a crowd and this laid-back spot is no exception. The first two floors are made at the Imperial Hotel are made up of a sports bar, dining room and large function space with picturesque views of Parliament House. Climb another set of stairs, and you’ll reach the rooftop bar. With panoramic views facing Parliament, it’s ideal for date nights and friendly catchups, complete with delicious share bites and sun-soaked seating.

2-8 Bourke Street, Melbourne

The Mint

A delightful mix of historic charm and trendy vibes, The Mint stands as one of Melbourne’s oldest pubs while flaunting the CBD’s largest beer garden. Found on William Street, this local gem embraces tradition with cheeky happy hours, irresistible meal deals, and free trivia nights that could have you questioning your general knowledge.

Be sure to try their famous ‘pie of the week’—with flavours like beef, bourbon, and sage or chicken, white wine, and sweet corn, it’s a pub classic that deserves a round of applause. Pair it with your drink of choice, and you’ve got yourself a mighty fine meal. So gather your mates and raise a glass at The Mint, where good times flow as freely as the drinks!

318 William Street, Melbourne

Saint & Rogue

With its character-laden charms, centuries-old venue Saint & Rogue does relaxed sophistication faultlessly, with a cracking menu to match. Serving comfort food with an upmarket flair, it’s a top pub in Melbourne CBD opening its arms to those looking for a refined touch to classic public house dining. It also oozes with old-world charm, featuring dark timber, warm lighting, arched windows, and attentive service that adds to its inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely meal or catching up with friends, Saint & Rogue promises a delightful blend of tradition and modernity in the heart of the city.

582 Little Collins Street, Melbourne

The Duke of Wellington

Occupying prime real estate on the corner of Flinders and Russell Street, our city’s oldest licensed pub is also one of the best pubs in Melbourne CBD. Established in 1853, The Duke of Wellington has a lot to offer: a wine bar, dining hall, multiple lounges and a newly opened rooftop that lends itself perfectly to sunset drinks.

Food-wise, The Duke offers delicious staples like their signature parma served with crinkle-cut chips and crunchy slaw, a juicy 300g Darling Downs scotch fillet paired with chips and zesty aioli, or the timeless 1853 cheeseburger. Complement your meal with an impressive selection of beers on tap, a curated list of local and international wines, and a seasonal cocktail menu that brings fresh flavours to your dining experience.

146 Flinders Street, Melbourne

Worked your way through the best pubs in Melbourne CBD and looking for somewhere to eat? Be sure to check out our list of the hottest new restaurants around the city. Keen to head home and kick it on the couch? Your favourite eateries have you covered with the best takeaways and dessert delivery for the ultimate sofa-fuelled feast!