Montmorency’s pubs scene is working-class, authentic, community-focused — 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 Black Store — 292 Ash Drive
Hours: Wed-Sun 5pm-1am Vibe: Warm, busy, neighbourhood local Drinks: $10-12
The pub the suburb rallies around. The Black Store 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 back room is the best spot — less crowded, better acoustics.
Drink this: Their signature negroni ($10-12). When to go: Tuesday for trivia and half-price pots.
2. Golden Room — 288 Rowan Road
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-late Vibe: Hidden behind an unmarked door
The quiet achiever. Golden Room 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 cocktails are made with house-infused spirits.
Best night: Friday DJs from 9pm.
3. Ruby’s — 73 Rowan Road
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-11pm Vibe: Small, intimate, conversation-volume 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 Black Store — 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 tap list rotates every two weeks with a Victorian-only policy. If you hit capacity, put your name down and walk around the block — turnover is quick.
Drink this: Their signature sour ($10-12). Pro tip: Ask for the off-menu cocktail — they’ll make something custom.
4. Rosa’s — 113 Willow Grove
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Modern gastropub with craft focus Drinks: $10-12
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 loaded fries are the move.
The drinks list complements the food — an approachable wine list that doesn’t take itself too seriously. 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: Thursday for the midweek special.
5. Southern Press — 289 East Grove
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 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 designed around the aesthetic — photogenic serves that actually taste good. Food is limited to charcuterie and cheese boards only 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Black Store | Overall best | $10-12 | Yes | Fri-Sat |
| Golden Room | Quiet drink | $10-12 | Yes | No |
| Ruby’s | New & trendy | $10-12 | Snacks only | No |
| Rosa’s | Food + drinks | $10-12 | Full menu | Fri |
| Southern Press | Atmosphere | $10-12 | Limited | Acoustic sets |
Practical Info
Happy hour: Most places run 5-7pm weekdays. The Black Store does $8 house lagers and $15 cocktails during happy hour.
Getting there: Public transport options in Montmorency. 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. Southern Press 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
- Montmorency Restaurants — eat before or after
- Montmorency Things to Do
- All Montmorency Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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