Why These Wine Bars in Melbourne’s CBD Deserve a Visit
Melbourne’s central business district is brimming with hidden gems and laneway discoveries. For lovers of wine, good food and intimate spaces, these five venues bring the city’s charm to life. Each offers an atmosphere that blends style with comfort, a curated wine list, and food worth savouring. From cozy European-inspired bistros to sleek modern dining rooms, these are the Melbourne wine bars you’ll want to visit again and again.
1) City Wine Shop
Address: 159 Spring Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
City Wine Shop has become a Melbourne institution. With walls lined floor-to-ceiling with bottles and a bistro-style menu that’s simple yet refined, it’s ideal for both casual after-work drinks and leisurely dinners. The communal tables and warm lighting create an atmosphere where conversations flow as easily as the wine. From local Australian drops to classic European vintages, City Wine Shop perfectly captures the heart of Melbourne’s wine culture.
2) Embla
Address: 122 Russell Street, Melbourne VIC 3000
Embla is one of the CBD’s most-loved wine bars, known for its rustic interior, wood-fire cooking and dedication to natural wines. The space feels intimate and lively, with an open kitchen and a wine list that celebrates organic and biodynamic producers. Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply curious, Embla’s friendly team will guide you through a range of unique and expressive wines that pair beautifully with their ever-changing menu.
3) Kirk’s Wine Bar
Address: 46 Hardware Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
Kirk’s Wine Bar brings a touch of Paris to Melbourne’s laneways. The cosy, European-style interior and al fresco seating make it the perfect spot for people-watching over a glass of red. The menu focuses on simple yet elegant French-inspired dishes, and the wine list balances natural producers with traditional favourites. It’s walk-in only, adding to the relaxed, spontaneous energy that makes Kirk’s such a beloved CBD staple.
4) No.100 Flinders Lane
Address: 100 Flinders Lane, Melbourne VIC 3000
A newcomer that’s already making waves, No.100 Flinders Lane combines a Lebanese-inspired menu with a refined wine bar aesthetic. Inside, the golden lighting and deep blue tiles create an elegant yet inviting atmosphere. The wine list explores both local and international selections, with plenty of bold reds and crisp whites to complement the share plates. It’s ideal for a date night, after-dinner drinks, or an intimate catch-up with friends.
5) Cathedral Coffee & Wine Bar
Address: 37 Swanston Street (Cathedral Arcade, Nicholas Building), Melbourne VIC 3000
Cathedral Coffee transforms from a bustling café by day into a sophisticated wine bar by night. Nestled inside the art deco Nicholas Building, it’s a true hidden gem with warm lighting, high ceilings and a curated list of natural and small-batch wines. Paired with small plates and cheeses, this laneway favourite offers a relaxed yet stylish experience for those seeking something a little different in the heart of the city.
The Final Sip
If you’re searching for the best wine bars in Melbourne’s CBD, these five venues showcase everything that makes the city’s dining scene special: character, creativity and a love for good wine. Whether you’re unwinding after work, celebrating with friends or discovering a new favourite bottle, each of these bars promises an experience to remember. Raise a glass, take a seat, and savour the best of Melbourne’s wine culture, right in the heart of the city.