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Cheers to 5 of the best Docklands watering holes

a group of people sitting at a table

Thinking of popping into town to check out Melbourne’s vibrant bar scene? We have a few suggestions of hot spots that are just a stone’s throw away from where our ferry drops you in Docklands.

Watermark Restaurant & Bar

If you’re looking for something a little bit fancy with plenty of variety, Watermark might be the spot for you. You can feel free to relax in a comfortable setting right on the water. And with extensive windows beaming light through, it’s the perfect place to unwind and watch the sun go down.

Watermark offers a great range of craft beers and imported and local wines and, with happy hour from 4pm-7pm, beverages are available at a bargain.

Tap831

TAP831 is quickly becoming the area’s vibrant social hub for delightful food, wine and music. It’s a great atmosphere for meeting friends, relaxing after a busy week, or stopping in for a quick bite. With a variety of offerings for your every mood, you can pop by for boutique wine and cocktails, local produce or pub classics. And enjoy great deals from 4pm-7pm during happy hour!

The Woolshed

The Woolshed is a stunning waterfront bar and restaurant in Docklands that boasts a shining view of Melbourne’s harbour and city skyline. The fireside room offers a welcoming ambience for close get-togethers and the harbour view room offers a breath of fresh air for taking in the sights. If the weather is nice, there’s also nothing quite like watching the city lights dance across the water on the external balcony at night. Boutique beers, wines, rums, bourbons, whiskeys, tequilas, gins, vodkas, cognacs, ports, classic and house cocktails are all on offer – so there’s something to suit every palate.

Bar Nacional

Bar Nacional offers the flavours of Spain on the fringe of Melbourne’s CBD. The team have curated an expansive wine list with an emphasis on Spanish and Australian wines, Australian craft beer and cider, and house-made Sangria – all selected to compliment the menu.

While you’re there, be sure to grab some authentic Spanish nibbles too. Delightful dishes include beef brisket empanadas and broccoli, croquettes, paella and more.

Platform 28

Platform 28 is a charming restaurant bar that offers modern cuisine in Docklands. Formerly a railway goods shed, this venue’s clever design stays true to the history of the site and holds a rustic charm that’s won the hearts of many patrons.

A relaxed atmosphere, combined with an impressive selection of beers, wines and cocktails make this one of the best meeting spots in the area.

It’s also a reliable choice for those who are over the crowded Melbourne bar scene where personal space is so rarely available in popular venues. Scaling across 2 levels, with 2 outdoor arenas and 2 indoor spaces, the venue’s size allows for plenty of room for catching up with friends or family in a space of your own.

Bottoms up!