Glen Iris’s pubs scene is refined, quiet, prestigious — 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 $13-15, cocktail $22-28. Happy hour (usually 5-7pm) knocks $3-5 off at most places.
Our Top Picks
1. Vera’s — 5 North Road
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Warm, busy, neighbourhood local Drinks: $13-15
The pub the suburb rallies around. Vera’s gets the fundamentals right — good drinks, comfortable room, staff who know the menu. The cocktail menu rotates monthly, which keeps regulars from getting bored. The upstairs level is the best spot — less crowded, better acoustics.
Drink this: Their signature negroni ($13-15). When to go: Any weeknight for a quiet drink.
2. Mia Table — 276 North Road
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Corner pub, proper carpets
The quiet achiever. Mia Table doesn’t have a PR budget or an Instagram strategy — it has regulars who come three times a week. The wine list is the draw. The cheese board pairs perfectly with their wine by the glass.
Best night: Friday DJs from 9pm.
3. Long Union — 142 Station Road
Hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-late Vibe: Outdoor courtyard, heat lamps in winter Drinks: $13-15
Opened in 2025 and immediately became a regular spot for the under-35 crowd. The tap list leans towards Victorian craft breweries. The space is tighter than Vera’s — 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 non-alcoholic cocktail list is genuinely creative, not an afterthought. If you hit capacity, put your name down and walk around the block — turnover is quick.
Drink this: The house old fashioned ($13-15). Pro tip: Tuesday is the quietest night and the bartender has more time to chat.
4. Luna Larder — 125 West Road
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-12am Vibe: Neighbourhood corner pub, proper and unpretentious Drinks: $13-15
The one for when you want food with your drinks. The kitchen runs until 9:30pm and the burgers are genuinely good, not bar-food-as-afterthought. The wings have a proper chilli kick.
The drinks list complements the food — a cocktail list designed around the kitchen’s flavours. It’s the kind of place where you come for one beer and stay for dinner because you smell the kitchen.
Best combo: Parma and a pint — the Melbourne classic, done properly. When to come: Sunday afternoon — relaxed, the kitchen is unhurried, and there’s live music.
5. Kai Room — 130 West Road
Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-11pm Vibe: Candlelit basement, moody and intimate Drinks: $13-15
The vibe pick. Not the best drinks on this list, but the candlelit basement 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 heavier on wine and bubbles than beer. Food is limited to empanadas and dip plates but you’re not here for the food.
Best for: A nightcap after dinner somewhere nearby.
Comparison
| Venue | Best For | Drink Price | Kitchen | Live Music |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vera’s | Overall best | $13-15 | Yes | Weekends |
| Mia Table | Quiet drink | $13-15 | Yes | Occasionally |
| Long Union | New & trendy | $13-15 | Snacks only | No |
| Luna Larder | Food + drinks | $13-15 | Full menu | Fri |
| Kai Room | Atmosphere | $13-15 | Limited | No |
Practical Info
Happy hour: Most places run 5-7pm weekdays. Vera’s does $8 house lagers and $15 cocktails during happy hour.
Getting there: Public transport options in Glen Iris. 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. Kai Room 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
- Richmond Pubs
- Glen Iris Restaurants — eat before or after
- Glen Iris Things to Do
- All Glen Iris Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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