5 of Melbourne's Quirky Hidden City Bars

Melbourne is the land of laneways, so it makes sense that some of the best and quirky little bars in the city are hidden down them too. Boasting little to no signage but great word of mouth. So whether you are looking for a rooftop, a laneway or a hidden cellar there is always something for everyone. Here is a guide to some of my favourites I quite literally stumbled across...

Union Electric 
Hidden off a lane in China Town just off Little Bourke street this little bar is full of charm. Half undercover, half open to the seasons this little gem is all exposed brick, wooden surfaces and industrial fittings. The hanging strings of ceiling lights bounce light around off of mirrors and green plants give a little seclusion and softness. We stumbled across this little beauty one night and is definitely worth returning to.
13 Heffernan Lane, Melbourne. Website

Goldilocks
Finding this rooftop haven can be a bit tricky unless you know where to look. With only a small emblem outside to give any hint that it is there and the very popular Curtan House Rooftop so close it would be easy to understand why people can just walk straight past, I'm not sure I would have found it if my friend hadn't shown me. The entrance is shared with a Chinese restaurant and the bar is then accessible by lift and a flight of stairs but well worth seeking out. Carpeted with astroturf and decorated with picnic tables and barrels, Goldilocks gives the feeling of a fairytale picnic in the park only with sumptuous cocktails and indulgently tasty treats. Be sure to arrive early as it is only a small venue and so has limited capacity
Level 4, 264 Swanston Street, Melbourne (Above Noodle Kingdom). Website

Croft Institute
When city life drives you a little crazy it is time to find Croft Institute. Hidden at the end of Croft Alley and with a quirky mad scientist-esque theme this laneway bar will set you back on track. With your choice of drink and a small selection of cocktails which come complete with drinking syringe. Dimly lit and darkly decorated the bar gives off an eerie cool vibe but if that isn't your thing head upstairs after 10pm to the school gym themed floor and check out the Departments of Male and Female Hygiene - aka the bathrooms - on your way up.
21 Croft Alley, Melbourne. Website

Fall from Grace
#IFoundFallFromGrace and you really should too. This speak-easy hidden cellar bar is located underneath State of Grace and is an uptown delight. A secret door unveils the staircase to the bar and opens out into dark wood and leather chair furnished interior - if you can find the door that is. Whether it is quiet and comfy or bustling and upbeat Fall from Grace is a good night any day of the week.
477 Colins Street, Melbourne. Website

Madame Brussels
Take the tiny elevator up to the top floor and you will discover a sweet garden party, with a mischievous twist. Serving staff wearing golf or tennis attire and floors carpeted in with faux grass you could be mistaking it for summer all year around. With and indoor patio, terrace and upper floor for private functions you can choose your spot on one of the comfy lawn chairs and settle in watching the sun dip below the east end skyline with one of their many delicious cocktails, try the 'Ginge Minge' trust me its morish. 
Level 3 57-59 Bourke Street, Melbourne. Website

Which of these would you end up in?