Deepdene’s pubs scene is unpretentious, multicultural, value-driven — and the pubs reflect it. Whether you want a quiet midweek drink or a full Friday night, there are options that don’t require leaving the suburb.
Standard prices: pint $10-12, cocktail $15-20. Happy hour (usually 5-7pm) knocks $3-5 off at most places.
Our Top Picks
1. The Long Union — 287 Chapel Street
Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-11pm Vibe: Rooftop terrace, sunset views Drinks: $10-12
The pub the suburb rallies around. The Long Union gets the fundamentals right — good drinks, comfortable room, staff who know the menu. The spirits selection rotates monthly, which keeps regulars from getting bored. The courtyard is the best spot — less crowded, better acoustics.
Drink this: A glass of the house red ($10-12). When to go: Thursday is the sweet spot — good crowd, no queue.
2. Ruby Commons — 142 Sydney Street
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-late Vibe: Corner pub, proper carpets
The quiet achiever. Ruby Commons doesn’t have a PR budget or an Instagram strategy — it has regulars who come three times a week. The snack menu is the draw. The cheese board pairs perfectly with their wine by the glass.
Best night: Sunday sessions with live jazz.
3. The Red Store — 249 Lygon Terrace
Hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-11pm Vibe: Cozy wine den, candlelit Drinks: $10-12
Opened in 2025 and immediately became a regular spot for the under-35 crowd. The wine list focuses on small Australian producers. The space is tighter than The Long Union — maybe 50 people before it feels packed — but that’s part of the appeal.
What makes it work is the attention to detail. The glassware is considered, the ice is proper, and the bartenders actually taste what they make before serving. The natural wine section is surprisingly deep for a bar this size. If you hit capacity, put your name down and walk around the block — turnover is quick.
Drink this: The house old fashioned ($10-12). Pro tip: The back corner booth is the best seat.
4. Black Post — 253 Sydney Street
Hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-late Vibe: Sports screens plus decent food — the rare combo Drinks: $10-12
The one for when you want food with your drinks. The kitchen runs until 10pm and the pizza are genuinely good, not bar-food-as-afterthought. The wings have a proper chilli kick.
The drinks list complements the food — local pale ales and lagers that pair with the menu. It’s the kind of place where you come for one beer and stay for dinner because you smell the kitchen.
Best combo: The cheese board with a glass of the house red, $35 total. When to come: Thursday for the midweek special.
5. Sparrow — 90 Maple Parade
Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-12am Vibe: Rooftop terrace with city views Drinks: $10-12
The vibe pick. Not the best drinks on this list, but the laneway entrance creates an atmosphere the others can’t match. It’s the place to bring someone you’re trying to impress, or to photograph, or both.
The drinks list is classic cocktails executed cleanly, no gimmicks. Food is limited to empanadas and dip plates but you’re not here for the food.
Best for: Sunset drinks on warmer evenings — arrive by 6pm for the golden hour.
Comparison
| Venue | Best For | Drink Price | Kitchen | Live Music |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Long Union | Overall best | $10-12 | Yes | Fri-Sat |
| Ruby Commons | Quiet drink | $10-12 | Yes | Occasionally |
| The Red Store | New & trendy | $10-12 | Snacks only | No |
| Black Post | Food + drinks | $10-12 | Full menu | Fri |
| Sparrow | Atmosphere | $10-12 | Limited | No |
Practical Info
Happy hour: Most places run 5-7pm weekdays. The Long Union does $8 house lagers and $15 cocktails during happy hour.
Getting there: Public transport options in Deepdene. Don’t drive on Friday/Saturday nights — parking is scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: None of these are bottle-service-and-bouncers. Clean casual everywhere. Sparrow skews slightly smarter but won’t turn away anyone in jeans.
Age check: All venues are 18+. Bring ID if you look under 25 — they will ask.
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD Pubs
- Deepdene Restaurants — eat before or after
- Deepdene Things to Do
- All Deepdene Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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