COCKTAIL BARS RICHMOND

Bowerbird Tapas and Gin Bar is Melbourne's premier gin and Mediterranean meze destination, located at 274 Bridge Road in Richmond. The venue celebrates local Victorian makers with 100 Victorian gins, local beers, and wines, creating a socially conscious space dedicated to regional producers. The architectural interior showcases salvaged Victorian ash wood, a bluestone bar top honouring Melbourne's urban landscape, and lighting design by local makers featuring hand-blown glass pendants. High-quality Mediterranean tapas complement the distinctive beverage selection, offering a relaxed contemporary dining experience. Open Tuesday through Thursday 4pm-midnight, Friday-Saturday 4pm-1am, and Sunday 2pm-11pm, Bowerbird has established itself as Richmond's specialist gin bar and social gathering space.

The Blacksmith Bar, located at 69 Swan Street in Richmond, occupies a heritage 1924 building that formerly housed McNaughton's Ironmongers. The venue features restored wrought iron accents, exposed brick walls, and vintage-inspired decor that pays homage to its industrial past while maintaining contemporary hospitality standards. Operated by Pratt Hospitality Group, the bar specializes in uncomplicated, classically-inspired cocktails crafted with seasonal ingredients, alongside a curated selection of local and international craft beers. The intimate setting offers cozy booth seating in street-facing windows ideal for people-watching, plus bar stools where patrons can observe skilled mixologists at work. Open Monday-Thursday 4pm-late and Friday-Sunday 2pm-late, The Blacksmith Bar captures the refined character of its heritage building through both design and carefully considered drink offerings.

Young Guns Richmond is a sophisticated cocktail and wine bar in Richmond positioned as an upscale drinking destination specializing in curated cocktails and wine selections. Operating Wednesday through Sunday from 3pm onwards, the venue offers Happy Hour promotions from 3pm to 6pm throughout the week, making premium drinks more accessible during early evening hours. The elegant, refined aesthetic with professional presentation emphasizes a contemporary approach to hospitality. Beyond casual service, Young Guns actively markets itself for private functions and events, positioning the space as suitable for special occasions requiring a polished venue for entertaining guests.

The Palm Royale is a Caribbean-themed cocktail bar on Church Street in Richmond, channeling the vibrancy and color of Cuban culture through palm trees, bronze mirrors, wood-panelled ceilings, and outdoor garden spaces designed for cigar enjoyment. The venue's rum-focused cocktail menu features signature creations like The Cuban Missile Crisis and El Presidente, overseen by bartender Dave Denton with approximately 350 spirits selections. Open Wednesday through Sunday from 5pm to 1am, it complements house-made cocktails with imported Caribbean beers and delivers an authentic tropical escape in inner Melbourne.

The Collection Bar in Richmond is an intimate cocktail lounge featuring Louisiana-style décor with warm brick walls, wooden surfaces, and leather couches accented by a distinctive pink neon sign. Award-winning for its sophisticated drinks program, the bar offers an extensive seasonal menu including house-created cocktails, classic martinis, and dessert drinks alongside wines and spirits. Notable creations include the cult-favorite Laphroaig Project and a refreshing Cucumber Gimlet made with house-infused cucumber, gin or vodka, fresh lime juice, elderflower syrup and orange bitters. Open Wednesday–Sunday from 5:00 pm–1:00 am, this intimate venue specializes in decadent cocktails and bar snacks in a warm, inviting atmosphere.