Romeo Lane

Date nights are sorted at this slinky cocktail bar in Melbourne’s CBD, from the tall tables for two to the half bottles of Champagne. Inspired by the area’s history as a red light district, Romeo Lane’s name comes from the street’s previous moniker. Drinks are a punchy little list, with leanings towards Europe thanks to bottles such as gin, sherry, and cognac helping to muddle up concoctions. Our favourite? The tropical Casa Vega, with smoky mezcal, coconut syrup, chartreuse, and lime.

Open from midday, the spot has a cute red-brick terrace for alfresco drinks, alongside a light food menu to soak up some of those tipples. The short selection is as thought-out as their drinks, with plates such as whipped chickpeas and miso on bread, and wagyu steak.