The Best Bars in Richmond for Your Next Night Out

Richmond's nightlife is the perfect blend of laid-back cool and vibrant energy, never pretentious, always inviting. Whether you're soaking in the electric buzz of Swan Street or finding solace in one of its quiet, charming wine bars, there's no shortage of places to discover, sip, and unwind.

From quirky microbreweries and bespoke gin bars to multi-level party hubs, the best bars in Richmond cater to every mood, vibe, and occasion. No matter what kind of night you're after, this neighbourhood delivers.

Casa Mariotti

A rustic, multi-level restaurant-bar hybrid on Swan Street, the new Casa Mariotti offers a slice of Rome in the heart of Richmond. With its charming, convivial atmosphere, it’s a meeting point for everyone – from locals to visitors. The spritzes are fresh, the Negronis are sharp, and the easy-pouring reds flow effortlessly. The balcony seating, though limited and highly sought-after, offers stunning city views and a glimpse of bustling Bridge Road below. Think buzzy Roman trattoria meets 90s style Melbourne drinking and dining, with all the energy and authenticity we love.

258 Swan Street, Richmond

Lenny's Wine Room

This charming wine bar in Richmond is the perfect spot for a laid-back post-work drink, a weekend hangout, or a cosy date night. With a no-bookings policy, Lenny’s invites you to walk in, grab a glass of vino, and sink into the relaxed, community atmosphere. The small plates menu is a game-changer, offering delicious bites like burrata with heirloom tomatoes, focaccia, and the fan-favourite 'Everything Plate.'

On sunny days or warm nights, settle into the dog-friendly outdoor street seating for good vibes and even better wine.

327 Lennox Street, Richmond

Da Bruno

Pizzeria Da Bruno brings an unexpected dose of Milanese modernism to Richmond, offering a stylish, multi-level space that feels more like a chic cocktail bar than a traditional pizzeria. With a basement bar glowing in neon and a rooftop overlooking the city, it’s the ideal spot for a night out. The pizza—particularly the margherita—is impeccable, but it's the vibe that really makes Da Bruno stand out: an effortlessly cool place to sip cocktails, dine, and soak up the summer ambiance. Perfect for your next stylish soirée.

221 Swan Street, Richmond

Clover Wine 

This vibey, light-filled modern bistro and wine bar is all about celebrating food cooked over fire and the love of natural wines. A true vin de cav, Clover embodies the evocative wine bars of France. It boasts an exceptional French-inspired small-plate menu, an impeccable wine list, and a stunning courtyard that lingers out back, bathed in sunshine and shade. Clover is undoubtedly one of the best new bars in Richmond, offering a perfect blend of flavour, atmosphere, and style.

193 Swan Street, Richmond

Fraek Vin

Fraek Vin is a relaxed, unpretentious wine bar located at the lively intersection of Bridge and Burnley roads in Richmond. Specialising in minimal-intervention wines, the bar offers a fantastic selection of natural, chilled bottles that are perfect for every occasion. Inspired by the owners’ time in Copenhagen, it exudes a laid-back yet inviting vibe, ideal for a post-work tipple. You can also grab a coffee, snack, or bottle to go, with wine and takeaway cheese from Supercheese to make your evening even better.

488 Bridge Road, Richmond

The Ugly Duckling

The Ugly Duckling is that rare combination of sophisticated and homely, with a highly capable bar team shaking up exciting cocktails in a relaxed, almost soothing setting. Sip on salted watermelon Daiquiris and elderflower Southsides under afternoon light streaming in from the heritage glass atrium. The largely Victorian wine list explores orange wines and fizzy pét-nats while snacks range from black truffle crisps to saltbush-sprinked kingfish crudo. We also love that they do table service here, meaning precious catchup time isn’t wasted queueing at the bar.

238 Swan Street, Richmond

Untitled Richmond

Settle in downstairs at this striking three-tiered restaurant and bar, and watch the world go by on Swan Street. Untitled has everything that makes a Richmond bar great: comfy banquette seating, a curved timber bar with views of the kitchen, and a unique, lively atmosphere perfect for smaller groups enjoying a post-work tipple. The impressive lineup of cocktails, wines by the glass, spirits, and digestifs is sure to impress. Round of white basil Palomas, anyone?

Equally impressive are the share plates – think oysters with dessert lime mignonette, cacio e pepe croquettes, and lobster rosti with harissa and cucumber. Hello, elevated bar bites!

236 Swan Street, Cremorne

Nice Guys Brewery & Bar

This funky, ‘70s-inspired microbrewery and bar is a refreshing change from the usual industrial, warehouse-style breweries. With colourful local furniture, abundant indoor greenery, and a fireplace centrepiece, Nice Guys is the kind of place you'll want to linger at all day. They’re pouring fresh beers from chilled tanks, including a citrus-forward American pale ale, mild kiwi lager, and toasty oatmeal stout, alongside top-notch wines and cocktails. Dogs are also welcome in the alfresco garden area out front, making it a great pit stop on a weekend walk.

306-308 Victoria Street, Richmond

The Blacksmith

Warm, elegant, and just a touch fancy, The Blacksmith should be high on your night-out rotation. The bar draws inspiration from its historic 1920s façade, once McNaughton’s Ironmongers, featuring quirky antique-prohibition décor full of personality. House cocktails pay tribute to the classics, with fun twists like the Vow of Silence, which blends lemon sorbet from Gelato Messina with Yellow Chartreuse, citrus shrub, and Prosecco. 

69 Swan Street, Richmond

WAYGOOD

WAYGOOD is the ultimate wine bar experience—perfect for grabbing a bottle to go or settling in for a meal that’s as hearty as it is refined. The menu evolves weekly, with nourishing dishes that turn first-timers into loyal regulars. Inside, a warm palette of soft yellows, honey tones, and timber creates a welcoming vibe, while vintage art deco lamps cast a cosy glow. At the heart of it all, the curved bar is flanked by bespoke metal shelves, setting the tone for good times and great conversations. Here, it’s all about community, making it one of Richmond’s best.

213 Swan Street, Richmond

Atlas Vinifera

A Richmond favourite since day one, at Atlas Vinifera it’s all about wine. To browse through their 400-strong shelves is to take a trip to every winemaking corner of the world, meaning you can start with lowkey local Chardy and end with a drop-dead gorgeous Chablis. Nurse a glass or two with a charcuterie board at their long counter bar or the sunny courtyard. During the winter months, they also do a hearty mulled wine.

274 Church Street, Richmond 

The Palm Royale

The unassuming exterior of 438 Church Street belies the vibrant Cuban-inspired bar hidden within. Brought to you by the team behind Windsor’s Jungle Boy, The Palm Royale is just as playful, with palm fronds and disco balls aplenty. Tiki cocktails bursting with fresh, tropical fruit will have you feeling like a million dollars, while rum boilermakers cater to those with less of a sweet tooth. There’s even a garden-styled courtyard where you can light up real Cuban and Dominican Republic cigars between rounds—if that’s your thing.

438 Church Street, Richmond

Bowerbird

If gin is your drink of choice, Bowerbird is the place to be. With over 70 Victorian gins sourced from regions like Ballarat, Geelong, Mildura, and Milawa, this specialty gin bar offers an impressive selection. Enjoy your gin in a refreshing G&T or indulge in classic cocktails like the celebratory French 75, zesty Gimlet, or vibrant Bramble.

Don’t worry about going hungry—Bowerbird’s satisfying bar menu includes oozy triple cheese toasties, hearty meatball subs, and an irresistible cheese and charcuterie selection to pair with your drinks.

274 Bridge Road, Richmond

Attria

A wine bar serving delicious snacks and supper late into the night? Count us in. Attria on Swan Street is a perfect spot to indulge in savoury delights like earthy black truffle salami, fluffy focaccia with taramasalata, and wild mushroom agnolotti, all while sipping your way through a curated wine list that spans Australia’s finest vineyards and beyond. Whether you're catching up with friends on the al fresco patio, enjoying a romantic date in the cosy interior, or simply savouring a solo glass at the bar, Attria offers the perfect vibe for any occasion.

107 Swan Street, Richmond

Corner Hotel

A beloved institution in Richmond, the Corner Hotel is a true local gem, blending a lively gastropub with a renowned live music venue. Hosting both Australian and international artists, the venue pulses with energy, offering incredible gigs in an unforgettable setting. Beyond the music, this iconic spot is celebrated for its hearty pub fare, regular social events, and relaxed rooftop afternoon sessions. It's a must-visit, oozing character and charm, making it one of the most iconic bars in Richmond.

57 Swan Street, Richmond

Fargo & Co

Bottomless brunches, glitzy décor, and a spacious rooftop terrace – Fargo & Co is where Richmond goes to get the party started. The former heritage bank building has been transformed into a 200-seat, double-storey bar, glamorously adorned with neon art, indoor greenery, and a huge chandelier. There’s frosé in summer, boozy hot chocolate in winter, and theatrical cocktails all year round. Resident and visiting DJs get the DF raring to go from Thursday onwards, while bottomless brunch is on every weekend without fail.

216 Swan Street, Richmond

Brogan's Way Distillery

Brogan Carr has forged her own path in the male-dominated distilling industry, starting with three gins in 2019 and now offering an expansive collection of craft gins and vodkas. At this Richmond-based cocktail bar and distillery, you can join the journey with weekly tours, cocktail-making classes, and gin-making workshops that will have you proudly declaring, “I made this” at your next party. Alternatively, simply pop into the bar to enjoy a few G&Ts and nibble on cheese.

61 North Street, Richmond

The Bridge Hotel

Step into The Bridge Hotel, Richmond’s hidden gem that feels a bit like stepping into Diagon Alley. This charming corner pub is split by a cobblestone laneway, offering a magical vibe with old-school hospitality and a cracking seasonal menu. Whether you're enjoying a drink in the cosy front bar, dining in the back, or dancing with friends, the venue’s multi-layered design promises a memorable experience. With drinks on tap and fun spaces to explore, it’s truly one of the best bars in Richmond.

642 Bridge Road, Richmond 

Mountain Goat Brewery

Tucked away down one of Richmond’s industrial side streets lies a true gem: the Melbourne-born Mountain Goat Brewery. This wonderful venue is a haven for beer lovers, where you can indulge in their top-notch original brews and rare limited editions. The Goat Bar is your perfect setting for a laid-back afternoon, offering a selection of fan favourites alongside house-made pizzas and mouthwatering food truck fare.

The atmosphere? Warm, welcoming, and brimming with that delightful touch of local charm. A must for anyone who appreciates quality beer, good food, and a relaxed vibe.

80 North Street, Richmond 

The Royston

Year after year, The Royston remains one of Richmond’s coolest pubs. It effortlessly blends a front bar that feels like a mate’s living room—think sunken couches, mismatched furniture, and pot plants—with a refined old-school bistro out back. While its relaxed vibe hides a killer craft beer selection and top-notch cooking, the true charm lies in its loyal regulars. Don’t miss their trivia night—it’s always fully booked and a testament to the pub’s warm, welcoming spirit.

12 River Street, Richmond

Prince Alfred Hotel

The Prince Alfred Hotel is a Richmond gem, radiating laid-back charm and offering vibes for days. With its inviting atmosphere, it's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're tucked away in the cosy dining room or soaking up the sun in the leafy beer garden, expect contemporary pub fare with a modern twist. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink from their stellar selection of local wines and craft beers for an unforgettable experience.

Sitchu Tip: We’re totally smitten with the leafy beer garden—and we’re sure you will be too!

619 Church Street, Richmond

Harlow

A pub, rooftop, and beer garden all chicly rolled into one buzzing venue, Harlow is one of the best bars in Richmond. Not only for its cracking disco drag bottomless brunches on weekends, but also for its lively atmosphere and stellar views across the city. Everyone is welcome at Harlow, where the food is exceptional, the drinks are flowing, and there’s always something fun happening. And there's just one rule: good vibes only!

447 Church Street, Richmond

National Hotel

Classy cocktails and pan-Asian dishes abound at this hip concrete pub and bar in Richmond. Exposed brick and recycled wood mesh beautifully to create an ambient and classy space for you and your friends to while away a few hours, with a local brew in hand and crispy pork belly bao in the other.

The best part? Come summer, The National's open-air beer garden becomes the perfect spot for a Sunday session. We recommend staying until dark, basking under the glowing lanterns and enjoying the lively atmosphere that only quiets at closing time.

344 Victoria Street, Richmond

Union House

Lively, easygoing, and heritage-listed, Union House on Swan Street was recently transformed by the team behind Marquis of Lorne. The venue offers upmarket comfort food, a rooftop deck, and an impressive selection of cocktails, beer, and wine—perfect for wine lovers. The food menu delivers hit after hit, with highlights like spiced chicken schnitzel, pork belly, and ricotta gnocchi. Plus, your beloved dog is welcome on the rooftop, where you can enjoy sports on the screens. A true new-classic Australian pub experience.

270 Swan Street, Richmond 

We’ve got even more suggestions for going out this season. Who doesn’t love a cheap drink? Check out these great value happy hours that’ll have you clocking off early. On chilly nights you’ll find us rugged up in these cosy pubs with fireplaces, while weekends are spent exploring the best bars out in Footscray.