Hotel Esplanade

There are a lot of places I'd rather be in this area. But this generally is one of the most reputable. If you want to discover hidden talent, check out the line ups or show up on a weekday. Several rooms cater for crowds and this venue has fame attached to it if you're in to your bands and their origins. I don't mind stopping in here, but I never really want to stay longer than what a game of pool and some cheap drinking permits. The location will always have a shifting crowd between Ackland St and Fitzroy St bar and pub crawls. No place for kids or young families. Broken glass is almost part of the flooring here, and violence from the mixed crowd can happen (usually to the street front in the smokers area). Tread carefully.

Cheap and cheerful with loads of great live music in a beautiful old building, don't be put off by the grungy student look of the Espy- it's a fun place for a cheap drink and snack. It's open very late but I don't recommend hanging around too late as it can get a bit wild and woolly!

Great for a cheap pot and a game of pool.



They also have good live music playing here. Either in the Gershwin room or in the main bit. Bar staff is really nice and happy to advise on what to get if you are looking for something new. Plenty of variety available.



Bouncers are a bit of a pain. It's still a nice place though

This place is my 2nd home and you simply must go. It's THE place to watch live music south of the city and always has an awesome mix of clientelle, bands, shirty busboys and cool barstaff.



Pizzas are also well worth it!