Nightlife in Elsternwick (2026)
Elsternwick is a solid drinking suburb where you can piece together a proper night without leaving the postcode. 19 bars and pubs mapped and verified. 18 have Google ratings, averaging 4.6/5.
Top Rated Bars in Elsternwick
| Rank | Venue | Google Rating | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Snob | ★ 5/5 | 90 |
| 2 | Arcadia Whisky Lounge | ★ 4.9/5 | 190 |
| 3 | Shakers on Wheels | ★ 4.9/5 | 134 |
| 4 | Her. | ★ 4.9/5 | 56 |
| 5 | The Lion & Wombat | ★ 4.8/5 | 326 |
| 6 | Brooklyn Cocktail Bar | ★ 4.8/5 | 73 |
| 7 | Antique Bar | ★ 4.7/5 | 931 |
| 8 | Lyrebird Lounge | ★ 4.7/5 | 179 |
Your Night Out in Elsternwick
Early Evening (5pm–8pm)
The after-work crowd. These venues are best when the sun is still up and you can get a seat without elbowing through a crowd:
- The Snob — 268 Bay St, Brighton VIC 3186, Australia (★ 5)
- Arcadia Whisky Lounge — 558 North Rd, Ormond VIC 3204, Australia (★ 4.9)
- Shakers on Wheels — Kooyong Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185, Australia (★ 4.9)
Prime Time (8pm–12am)
The main event. Elsternwick has enough room if you know where to look.
All Bars and Pubs in Elsternwick
#1 The Snob — 268 Bay St, Brighton VIC 3186, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 5/5 (90 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “Been here twice, found out through a friend. A different experience to what I’m used to, I really enjoy the vibes of this venue. The shisha and the fo…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: The Snob | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#2 Arcadia Whisky Lounge — 558 North Rd, Ormond VIC 3204, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (190 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “A great hidden bar off North Road inside a old Arcade. Happy friendly staff, unquic decor, fantastic range of drinks at good prices and a varied food …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Arcadia Whisky Lounge | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#3 Shakers on Wheels — Kooyong Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (134 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “We had a last minute anniversary recommendation from friends to go with shakers on wheels for our at home 20th wedding anniversary. Jordan was able to…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Shakers on Wheels | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#4 Her. — 2 Windsor Pl, Windsor VIC 3181, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.9/5 (56 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “Celebrated my 21st here, from start to finish Alex was easy with communication, always on prompt with any questions we had, and made what was a stress…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Her. | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#5 The Lion & Wombat — 107 Grey St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.8/5 (326 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “First time at the Lion and Wombat, the team are so lovely and the place is great. My husband loved the burger and we tried a scotch egg for the first …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: The Lion & Wombat | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#6 Brooklyn Cocktail Bar — 81 Ormond Rd, Elwood VIC 3184, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.8/5 (73 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “Love Brooklyn, it has a real neighborhood vibes. The owner Craig is a gent. Love popping in for a few beers and it’s a great space for an event. If yo…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Brooklyn Cocktail Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#7 Antique Bar — 218 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.7/5 (931 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Cosy, rustic-chic lounge bar fitted with antique furniture, serving gourmet nibbles and cocktails. A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “We had an amazing experience here! It was our first time visiting the bar, and I have to say the bartender, Lion, was absolutely professional and welc…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Antique Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#8 Lyrebird Lounge — 61 Glen Eira Rd, Ripponlea VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.7/5 (179 reviews) | $ | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “We popped into this place randomly for a drink while waiting for a reservation across the road. Immediately fell in love with the place. Great vibe, f…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Lyrebird Lounge | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#9 Leena’s Bar — 303 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.7/5 (114 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “Cute bar in the bustling village of Elsternwick. Great selection of beers and wines. Service was prompt and the interiors gives a nice ambience for ca…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#10 The Local Taphouse — 184 Carlisle St, St Kilda VIC 3182, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.6/5 (1,934 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Craft beer, live music and comedy in a roomy tavern with old-school furnishings and a bocce court. One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “Lovely rooftop bar - just the right amount of lively. Classic woodsy bar with open outdoor area adjacent with plants hanging on the walls. Super nice …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: The Local Taphouse | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#11 Carter Lovett — 329 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.6/5 (596 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: *“Chill vibes, friendly staff.
Chicken schnitzel- well toasted bread, tender chicken and paired with a side of chips
Eggs benedict with side of rosti …”*
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Carter Lovett | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#12 Copycat Bar & Restaurant — 9b Gordon St, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.6/5 (374 reviews) | Casual
What makes it great: One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “I celebrated my birthday with friends at this restaurant, and I was extremely satisfied with their service. The staff were amazing, kind, and very tho…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Copycat Bar & Restaurant | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#13 Budapest Schnitzel and Eating House — 273 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.5/5 (671 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Traditional Hungarian dishes in an intimate venue with vintage light fixtures & a full bar. A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “That was a great experience and perfect for a family! The food was fresh and well prepared. We arrived on time, and we’re guided to our table. Personn…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Budapest Schnitzel and Eating House | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#14 Umbrella Lounge Bar — 338-340 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.5/5 (345 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “Fresh authentic Georgian food, everything was amazing!! And Temo the owner was sooo nice, he makes all the food fresh and taught us how to eat it with…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Umbrella Lounge Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#15 Mothers Instinct cafe & Bar — 3/221 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.5/5 (316 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: “Service was excellent and the atmosphere was nice. The food was good, we ordered the green smoothie, which was great, and the coffee was nice. There …”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Mothers Instinct cafe & Bar | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#16 Elsternwick Hotel — 259 Brighton Rd, Elwood VIC 3184, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.4/5 (1,598 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Pub classics & live music in a long-running venue with sports on TV & leather banquettes. This Elsternwick spot fills a gap in the local dining scene. The food is prepared with care, the ingredients are sourced with thought, and the pricing reflects fair value for what you get. It is the kind of restaurant that a neighbourhood needs — reliable enough for a Tuesday, good enough for a birthday.
What locals say: “I came with my dad and we both will be coming back. The roast was delicious, the fish and chips bundle came with lots of sides you wouldn’t normally s…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Elsternwick Hotel | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#17 Goat House — 272 Glen Huntly Rd, Elsternwick VIC 3185, Australia
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.3/5 (1,585 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Convivial locale with stylish accents & a patio for brunch & cafe dining, plus artisanal coffee. A Elsternwick local that has built its reputation on consistency rather than hype. The menu does not try to be everything — it picks a lane and executes well. Regulars come back because the quality holds up week after week, and the prices have not chased the suburb’s rising rents. Worth a visit if you are in the area, worth a return if you live here.
What locals say: *“Excellent pub in the heart of Elsternwick.
Went on a Thursday afternoon for a few beers and the atmosphere was great. Asahi on tap always a winner fo…”*
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Website: Goat House | Google Maps
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
#18 The Rifle Club
A Elsternwick local worth knowing about.
★ 4.2/5 (951 reviews) | $$ | Casual
What makes it great: Rustic-chic hot spot with a terrace, serving Indochine-inspired dishes & a boozy weekend brunch. One of Elsternwick’s more interesting dining options. The kitchen draws from multiple traditions without losing focus, and the result is a menu that rewards curiosity. Portions are reasonable, the service is attentive without hovering, and the room has enough character to feel like a destination rather than a convenience.
What locals say: “I think they changed menu recently but still carries a very good range of selection. the oysters were very fresh. had to order 2 more. the main was ve…”
Melbourne tip: Call ahead to confirm hours, especially on public holidays. Check Google Maps for the latest opening times and reviews.
Source: OpenStreetMap contributors, verified March 2026
More Venues in Elsternwick
| Venue | Address | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Via Campanella Cucina & Bar | 452 Glen Huntly Road | — |
Nightlife Tips for Elsternwick
- Thursday is the new Friday — Elsternwick bars are busy but not rammed on Thursday nights. Better service, easier parking
- Cash is dead — almost every bar in Melbourne takes card. Some are card-only
- Last drinks — bars will call last drinks 30 minutes before closing. Do not be the person arguing with the bouncer
- Eat first — Elsternwick has 27 restaurants. Line your stomach before you start drinking
- Rideshare pickup — set your pickup point before your last drink. Surge pricing hits hardest between 1am and 2am
- Pub crawl route — start furthest from home and work your way back. Geography is your friend after midnight
Getting Home from Elsternwick
- Rideshare: Uber and DiDi operate across Melbourne. Budget $15–$40 depending on distance
- Night Bus: Check PTV for NightRider services
- Train: Last trains typically depart between 11:30pm–12:30am (check PTV)
- Tram: Some routes run until 1am on weekends
Related Guides
- Best Restaurants in Elsternwick
- Best Cafes in Elsternwick
- Best Bars in Elsternwick
- Cost of Living in Elsternwick
- Elsternwick Neighbourhood Guide
- Family Guide to Elsternwick
- Is Elsternwick Safe?
- Elsternwick Transport Guide
Last updated: March 2026. This guide is refreshed when OpenStreetMap data changes — new openings, closures and corrections are reflected automatically. Found something wrong? Let us know.
Sources
- OpenStreetMap Contributors — openstreetmap.org — accessed March 2026
- ABS Census 2021 — abs.gov.au/census
- REIV Quarterly Median Prices — reiv.com.au
💬 Discussion
Join the conversation — no account needed