Hinting of the illicit, hiding behind an unassuming sign less brown door that screams service entry is one of Melbourne’s award winning bars. Clubby and clandestine, the staff here perform cocktail “theatre” with panache in an environment which tips its hat to prohibition. If the selection proves overwhelming, the staff can provide some great advice. Pricing pleasantly on par and with a back bar of over 700 spirits, it’s worth the 30 minute drive from the PARKROYAL.

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Imbibe the mystery and the whisky behind the heavy black drapes that conceal the entry to the Whisky and Alement. This bar has a serious selection that you can try and then buy. An tiny intimate bar with terrific staff who are real whisky geeks. Mostly shared high tables. So if you’re in the mood for a touch of Melbourne moonshine, take the trip into town; its about 30 minutes drives.

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The mixing of a great drink is a subject worthy of scientific study. Reminiscent of an old school science lab, if you want some fun with friends the Croft Institute in the Melbourne CBD could be just what the doctor ordered. Quirky and a little creepy, cocktails are served with syringes as straws. The second floor has a real “turf” bar and on weekends the DJ’s spin their stuff. So if you are in the mood for a little experiment, make you way down to the laneway, about 40 minutes drive from the PARKROYAL.

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A little challenging to locate, find your way through a door, up some stairs, through another door and step into an intimate and refined world of mellow lighting, leather bound booths, dark wood and chandeliers, with soothing jazz gently playing in the background. The Everleigh serves classic cocktails made to superior standards with attention to detail. Groups are limited to a maximum of 6 people. About 30 minutes drive from the PARKROYAL this is definitely a place for grown ups.

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Experience your own Narnia moment and fall into a story book fantasy land at this city roof top bar, just 30 minute drive away. Adorned with white wrought iron garden furniture, grassed areas, parasols and staff in tennis whites the décor is full of fun. This is the bar equivalent of chic lit. The punch rose and creamy cup cakes are house specialities. Don’t let the chill stop you; blankets are available for the brave. Dogs are welcome. Pimms anyone?

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