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The best secret bar, cafes and restaurants in Melbourne

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Melbourne has plenty of places to eat and drink, but some of the best places are hidden in some laneway with no signage, or hiding in plain sight inside a wardrobe behind the clothing rack. This list has all the best secrets I’ve discovered after liv...
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Melbourne’s secret laneway bars

You wouldn’t know these places existed unless someone told you. These no-signage, tucked away bars are absolute gems.perfect for first dates where you’re looking to impress, after work drinks or somewhere different to impress a friend
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
It looks like a pizza shop, but trust me - it’s also a bar. You’re not in the wrong place. Keep going through the back door that says ‘staff only’ and through the curtains and you’ll discover the cosiest, cutest bar. They serve cocktails, snacks and ...
PIZZA PIZZA PIZZA
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
Once you find this bar with no signage, open the door and you’ll be inside a dark, classy, cosy warm bar called Eau De Vie. They make the most beautiful cocktails here.
Melbourne
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
When you walk into this bar, you’ll think I’m lying to you when I say it’s secret - because the first thing you see is a beautiful bar. But trust me, things get even better. Look for a wardrobe, move the clothing aside and you’ll see a secret stairca...
Trinket Bar on Flinders Lane

Melbourne’s best cafes

Melburnians take their cafes very seriously. Our discerning taste for cafe culture means some only the best cafes are viable enough to stick around. These cafes have stood the test of time - either for their food, service, vibe or all the above.
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
A solid cafe for brunches, lunches and coffee. It’s dog friendly thanks to its ample outdoor seating and so delicious. Get the Hungover for the yummiest cheesy toast with maple bacon!
A Thousand Blessings (@athousandblessingscafe)
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
A consistent favourite, this cute cafe by day and restaurant by night is a must visit. Many cafes have come and gone in this area, but this one stands the test of time and the most discerning coffee lovers of Melbourne. The Green Bowl is my go to hea...
Ora Kew
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
This place officially wins best pies in Melbourne in my books. The mushroom and pulled beef pie is the best! Get in early to beat the lunchtime rush! They have seating indoors too, in case you want to stick around for dessert.
Magnum Pi
 
Claire Bayford profile picture
This is hands down the best bakery in Melbourne. It has the most extensive range I’ve ever seen. It’s open from 6am til 9pm - you read correctly - these bakers are open for breakfast, lunch AND dinner. What other bakery offers you home made lasagne a...
Elwood Patisserie & Bakery (@elwoodpatisserieandbakery)