Four quirky new bars in Melbourne

A fun palace mini-golf bar, a new neighbourhood hotspot, a whisky specialist, and an ode to Absinthe – Melbourne’s bar scene never fails to surprise and delight.

Holey Moley Golf ClubWith Melbourne’s love of golf and quirky bars – it was only a matter of time before the newest bar craze was introduced to the city. Holey Moley is a mini-golf club which combines a putt-putt course crossed with a cocktail bar and karaoke – all rolled into one crazy and chaotic venue. Located in the heart of the city and masterminded by the originators of Strike Bowling Bar and Exitus Escape Rooms, Holey Moley Golf Club is expected to set the par even higher. Holey Moley, which opened on April 20, features three nine-hole courses, with 27 uniquely themed holes split across two levels. There’ll be a nod to much-loved TV shows (think Game of Thrones and The Simpsons) and classic childhood films (Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory and The Wizard of Oz), as well as tributes to nostalgic games and toys (Pac-Man, Tetris and Barbie). 590 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, 1300 727 833

Uncle JoesEveryone needs an uncle like this friendly new neighbourhood bar in East Brunswick. Using the same winning formula of its sister bar, Joe’s Shoestring, in nearby hipster Northcote, the venue offers a quality drinks menu with local tap beers, a substantive but curated wine menu, and all the cocktails including a cracking Negroni. Vibe is cool but friendly with stools at the window and around the bar, perfect for solo patrons, and cosy booths and an outdoor bit for bigger groups. The venue is located in the buzzing East Brunswick end of Lygon Street and next to popular middle eastern woodfired pizza joint, Mankoushe, where hungry customers can order their dinner. 325 lygon street, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, +61 9380 5637

The Elysian Whisky BarBringing rare and unique bottles of whisky to Fitzroy, this recently-opened whisky bar merges Japanese small bar culture with modern Australian flair. Focusing on independent bottlings, this is the place to try drops not available anywhere else in Australia. The Elysian’s knowledgeable bartenders love to whip up inventive whisky cocktails and introduce guests to new and old pours from Scotland, Ireland, Japan and beyond. 113 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, +61 3 9417 7441.

AbsinthesalonGuests are asked to politely ring the doorbell to gain entry to this salon that has more than a little Parisian je ne sais quoi. While this refined-yet-fun bar dedicated to the hypnotic delights of the Green Fairy is located next to a gritty car park, inside the green-themed interiors transport guests to the streets of Paris in a flash. Thematic murals, hundreds of hanging lights disguised in upside-down tulip bulbs strung up on the ceiling and an impressive display of absinthe bottles makes this one of Melbourne’s most unique spots to imbibe. 82 Rose Street, Fitzroy, +61 406 207 903.