Where to Find the Best Restaurants Happy Hour Deals in Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant city known for its eclectic dining scene, filled with world-class Brighton restaurants, cosy pubs, and hidden bars. But the true joy of Melbourne's food and drink culture can be found during happy hour – that magical time when you can indulge in delicious food and drinks at discounted prices. Whether you're looking to unwind after work, meet up with friends, or simply enjoy a good deal, Melbourne’s happy hour offerings are some of the best in Australia. In this blog, we'll guide you through the top restaurants offering happy hour deals in Melbourne, perfect for foodies and budget-conscious diners alike.

1. Rocksalt Café and Restaurants

Located in the heart of Melbourne, Rocksalt is an iconic rooftop bar offering some of the best views of the Melbourne skyline. But it’s not just the view that draws the crowd – their happy hour deals are equally impressive. From 7:30 am to 9:30 pm on weekdays, you can enjoy $10 vodka specials and $9 pintxos, a Basque-style snack that pairs perfectly with your drink. The setting is stylish yet casual, making it a great spot to meet with friends for drinks and tapas after work.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$10 vodka specials

$9 pintxos

Rooftop views over Melbourne

2. Bodega Underground

If you're a fan of Mexican food, Bodega Underground on Little Bourke Street is the place to be for happy hour. Known for their bold flavours and killer margaritas, this restaurant offers $10 margaritas and $6 tacos during their happy hour from 5 pm to 7 pm, Monday to Friday. The casual, cool atmosphere paired with authentic Mexican cuisine makes it a hotspot for happy hour enthusiasts who love a spicy kick with their deals.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$10 margaritas

$6 tacos

Authentic Mexican vibes

3. The Everleigh

The Everleigh is one of Melbourne’s classiest cocktail bars, located in the hip neighbourhood of Fitzroy. Known for its speakeasy charm, the bar also offers a spectacular happy hour. From 5 pm to 7 pm daily, you can enjoy two classic cocktails for $25. The dimly lit, vintage-inspired interior adds a touch of sophistication to your evening, while the skilled bartenders whip up expertly crafted drinks that are both delicious and Instagram-worthy.

Happy Hour Highlights:

Two cocktails for $25

Classic cocktail list

Sophisticated speakeasy atmosphere

4. Hopscotch

Hopscotch, located along Southbank, is a beer lover’s paradise with over 30 craft beers on tap. Their happy hour is perfect for anyone looking to try a variety of beers without breaking the bank. From 4 pm to 6 pm Monday to Friday, Hopscotch offers $6 schooners and $7 house wines. They also have a fantastic range of pub-style snacks, making it a great place to gather with friends after work while enjoying the riverside view.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$6 schooners

$7 house wines

Craft beer selection with a riverside view

5. Garden State Hotel

Garden State Hotel, located in Flinders Lane, is a sprawling, multi-level venue that combines industrial chic with lush greenery. Their happy hour is a must for those in the city during the week. From 4 pm to 6 pm on weekdays, enjoy $6 wines and $8 pints. The beautiful outdoor garden bar is perfect for a relaxed, alfresco drink, while the indoor areas offer a warm, inviting atmosphere if you’re looking to escape the weather.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$6 wines

$8 pints

Beautiful garden bar and cosy indoor spaces

6. The Boatbuilders Yard

Nestled along the Yarra River, The Boatbuilders Yard is a bustling waterfront venue with a laid-back vibe. Their happy hour, known as "Knock-Off Drinks", runs from 4 pm to 6 pm Monday to Friday. Enjoy $7 house beers and wines while soaking in the riverside atmosphere. It’s the perfect place for an after-work drink or a weekend chill session, especially with their scenic outdoor seating area that offers stunning views of Melbourne’s skyline.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$7 house beers and wines

Waterfront location with views of the Yarra

Casual, relaxed atmosphere

7. Arbory Bar & Eatery

Arbory Bar & Eatery is Melbourne’s longest bar, stretching alongside Flinders Street Station and offering breathtaking views of the Yarra River. From 3 pm to 6 pm on weekdays, you can indulge in $8 house wines, $9 beers, and $10 spritzes. The lively, bustling atmosphere combined with the stunning backdrop of the river makes it a go-to spot for those looking to enjoy a sunset happy hour. Their snack menu is also worth checking out, with options like truffle fries and cheeseburger sliders.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$8 house wines

$9 beers

$10 spritzes

Riverside views and vibrant setting

8. Leonardo’s Pizza Palace

If you’re after a casual yet cool setting with excellent food and drink deals, Leonardo’s Pizza Palace is your go-to. This retro-styled pizza joint in Carlton offers $7 pints and $5 wines during their happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm daily. Pair your drinks with one of their mouth-watering pizzas, and you’ve got the perfect combination for a happy hour feast. The relaxed vibe and affordable prices make Leonardo’s a local favourite.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$7 pints

$5 wines

Retro vibes and excellent pizza options

9. Madame Brussels

Madame Brussels is a whimsical rooftop bar that’s all about charm and quirkiness. Known for its garden party atmosphere, complete with AstroTurf and pastel décor, this rooftop offers happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm Monday to Friday, where you can enjoy $10 jugs of Pimms or sangria. It's a favourite spot for those looking for a quirky and fun after-work hangout, with a view over Melbourne's CBD.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$10 jugs of Pimms or sangria

Whimsical rooftop setting

Fun, laid-back atmosphere

10. Union Electric Bar

Union Electric is a small, bustling bar hidden away in a laneway in Chinatown. Known for their creative cocktails and gin-focused menu, Union Electric offers a fantastic $10 gin and tonic special during happy hour from 4 pm to 6 pm daily. The intimate, speakeasy vibe makes this bar a hidden gem in Melbourne’s CBD, perfect for those who enjoy quality drinks without the large crowds.

Happy Hour Highlights:

$10 gin and tonic special

Speakeasy atmosphere

Hidden laneway location

Tips for Making the Most of Melbourne’s Happy Hour Scene

To truly enjoy the happy hour scene in Melbourne, it’s best to plan ahead. Here are a few tips:

Timing: Most happy hours in Melbourne run between 4 pm and 7 pm, so aim to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially at popular venues.

Know Your Preferences: Whether you're a fan of craft beers, cocktails, or wine, choose a happy hour that suits your taste. Melbourne offers a wide variety, so there’s something for everyone.

Try New Spots: Melbourne is a city full of hidden gems. Don’t be afraid to venture outside your usual haunts and discover new bars and restaurants offering great deals.

Stay Hydrated: It’s always a good idea to pair your drinks with a meal or snack, especially if you’re planning on visiting multiple venues. Many happy hours offer discounted food alongside drinks.

Conclusion

Melbourne is a city that takes its food and drink culture seriously, and happy hour is no exception. From riverside venues with scenic views to rooftop bars and laneway hideaways, there’s no shortage of options for those looking to enjoy a great deal of drinks and food. Whether you’re winding down after work or catching up with friends, Melbourne’s best happy hour restaurants are guaranteed to offer good times without breaking the bank. So, next time you're in the city, be sure to check out some of these top happy hour destinations and make the most of what Melbourne has to offer!