State of Grace

Those tapped into the Melbourne CBD cocktail circuit always point to State of Grace. A total wildcard of a venue. Downstairs? Pure eccentricity. Chandeliers, vintage taxidermy, and a cheeky trompe l'œil bookshelf that swings open into Fall from Grace—a subterranean speakeasy dripping with moody character. Weekend brunchers flock to the rooftop for two-hour boozy sessions, soaking up Southbank views over bottomless Pornstar Martinis and shared bites. The drinks program is seriously dialled in. Think flawlessly balanced Amaretto Sours and fiery Spicy Watermelon Margaritas. Kitchen output can occasionally waver—skip the vegan burger—but when they hit the mark, plates like the unctuous, slow-cooked beef cheek absolutely sing. Grab a stool. Let the stellar bar team guide your pour. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible.