Gin Palace

Down a classic Melbourne CBD laneway—Russell Place, to be exact. Dimly lit. Vintage couches. Old-school charm that hasn't slipped a single notch in twenty years. Gin purists and cocktail hounds make this their absolute first stop in the city. The backbar is a staggering library of global botanicals—just ask the encyclopedic staff to pour you an obscure NZ black gin or craft a fiercely balanced martini in a chilled coupe. Out-of-towners treat a visit here as a sacred ritual, usually pairing those flawless libations with a surprisingly legendary chicken sandwich. Slide in early to claim a velvet armchair to a killer 60s soundtrack, or drop by post-9pm when the room really hums.