CARLTON CLUB HOTEL

193 Bourke St

Melbourne Vic 3000

Ph (03) 9663 3246

The Carlton Club Hotel is a cute space on Bourke St. The main bar and dining area has a cute fit-out, creepy taxidermy aside. And this place kills it in summer with a terrace AND a rooftop bar (Carlton Palmz). Monday nights sees half price food. So if you have a early week dinner scheduled, cruise in to the Carlton for some cheap tasty eats! Friday night drinks are pretty busy so get here early. Great place, definitely recommended.

MADAME BRUSSELS

59 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000

Ph (03) 9662 2775

Madame Brussels is fabulous. It is one of the many wonderful themed bars in Melbourne – I love them! The Alice in Wonderland, croquet-and-a-Pimm’s theme works a charm, and there is a great rooftop area. And a pool in summer when it’s hot!! The staff all dress in line with the theme, which makes it work even better. They only sell international beers, which I think is a little weird. They have Quilmes though which is pretty nice! They also do tasty Pimm’s jugs (although the amount of actual Pimm’s in the jugs is questionable) and cocktails. Very refreshing after a hard day’s work! Great bar to take out-of-town visitors (like my Mum, who loved the place!!) and great for a knock off or a nightcap if you’ve had dinner down that end of town.