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Sports bars in Melbourne
10 hand-picked bars4.3 avg · 32k reviewsUpdated 2026

The 10 Best Sports Bars in Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant city with a rich sporting culture, and there's no better place to soak it all in than at its bustling sports bars. Whether you're in town for a major event or just want to catch a game, these bars offer the perfect blend of atmosphere, great food, and plenty of screens.

In Melbourne for a game?

Get tickets and a hotel near the stadium in one checkout — then hit these bars before kick-off.

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Local tip — Melbourne's sports-bar scene is lively and diverse, with clusters around the city center and near major venues. On game day, arriving early is key to securing a good spot.

1. Young and Jacksons

4.2
4,718 Google reviews$$

Best for: classic Melbourne vibe

Experience a classic Melbourne pub with a lively atmosphere and iconic views of Flinders Station. It's a must-visit before heading to an AFL game at the MCG.

Classic Melbourne pub experience with a great atmosphere and a strong mix of locals and visitors. It felt like one of those places you have to experie…— Google review
iconic viewsgreat atmosphereAFL fans
View on Google Maps1 Swanston St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

2. The Duke of Wellington

4.3
4,225 Google reviews$$

Best for: relaxed rooftop vibe

Enjoy a relaxed vibe with plenty of space, whether at the main bar or the rooftop, perfect for unwinding before heading to a nearby game.

***Updated 13 July: I left a Google review a few weeks ago after a poor experience for dinner at The Duke. The lovely manager Grace responded and aske…— Google review
rooftoprelaxedcentral location
View on Google Maps146 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

3. Imperial Hotel

4.2
4,125 Google reviews$$

Best for: group gatherings

Located near the Princess Theatre, this bar offers a seamless experience for groups, making it ideal for pre- or post-event gatherings.

Lovely experience at the Imperial Hotel. We visited the Imperial on Mother's Day at about 3:30pm, following a performance of The Book of Mormon, on at…— Google review
group-friendlycentral locationseamless service
View on Google Maps2-8 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

4. Mail Exchange Hotel

4.2
3,620 Google reviews$$

Best for: casual hangouts

Close to Southern Cross, this pub is a hidden gem with friendly service, quick food, and a mix of seating areas for any occasion.

Awesome pub. The welcome bouncer is very friendly. The Christmas decorations make it more festive. The staff are friendly. The food came out quick. Ni…— Google review
friendly staffquick servicecentral location
View on Google Maps688 Bourke St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

5. Hopscotch Melbourne

4.5
3,571 Google reviews$$

Best for: craft beer lovers

A craft beer paradise on Southbank with a buzzing atmosphere, perfect for beer enthusiasts looking to enjoy a game by the Yarra.

Good beer, good music, good atmosphere' very friendly staff. Plenty of craft beer options and a nice mix of indoor and outdoor seating. Ended up stayi…— Google review
craft beerSouthbankbuzzing atmosphere
View on Google MapsGround Floor/4 Riverside Quay, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

6. TGI Fridays Melbourne Central

4.0
2,833 Google reviews$$

Best for: relaxed dining

Tucked away in a quiet corner, this spot offers a relaxed atmosphere with generous platters and standout cocktails, great for a laid-back game day.

I had such a wonderful time at TGI Fridays Melbourne Central today. I arrived during happy hour and ordered cocktails, fries, and cheese sticks. Every…— Google review
cocktailsgenerous portionscentral location
View on Google MapsLa Trobe St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

7. The Sherlock Holmes

4.5
Irish pub2,402 Google reviews$$

Best for: cozy evenings

With its old-world charm and cozy setting, this bar offers a range of well-priced meals and drinks, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed game night.

Sherlock Holmes Bar ★★★★★ A classic, cosy spot in the heart of the city with that timeless old world charm, perfect for a relaxed evening. 🕯️🍺✨ What…— Google review
old-world charmcozyreasonable prices
View on Google Maps415 Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

8. The Irish Times Pub

4.4
Irish pub2,382 Google reviews$$

Best for: Irish pub vibes

Offering a warm and cozy atmosphere with a strong Irish influence, this pub is perfect for enjoying hearty meals and great beer with friends.

We came here more for the food than the beer. The space feels warm and cozy, with wooden interiors and vintage-style decor. The menu leans heavily Iri…— Google review
Irish atmospheregreat beerwarm and cozy
View on Google Maps427 Little Collins St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

9. The Joint Bar

4.4
2,304 Google reviews$$

Best for: rooftop views

Known for its stunning rooftop views, great music, and delicious food, it's ideal for mid-week relaxations or Friday night fun.

If you’re looking for a rooftop bar with an awesome view, great music and AMAZING food and drinks - especially for your mid week knock off drinks or e…— Google review
rooftopgreat musicdelicious food
View on Google MapsLevel 1/35 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia

10. P.J.O'Brien's Irish Pub

4.4
Irish pub2,202 Google reviews$$

Best for: lively Irish nights

A lively Irish bar with a fun atmosphere, serving up Guinness and Kilkenny on tap. Perfect for a rowdy and fun game day experience.

We always love coming here ♡ The food is amazing. Love the atmosphere! A little rowdy & fun, just as an Irish bar should be! The service was wonderful…— Google review
Irish musicGuinness on taprowdy fun
View on Google MapsSouthgate Precinct, G12-16/3 Southgate Ave, Southbank VIC 3006, Australia

Watch your home team: Irish, Aussie & expat bars in Melbourne

In Melbourne for the weekend and want to catch your own league with fellow fans? These are the expat bars where the away crowd gathers.

Tickets for upcoming events in Melbourne

Live prices from our inventory — tap an event to see seats.

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Sports bars in Melbourne: FAQ

Where's the best area for sports bars in Melbourne?+

The city center is bustling with great sports bars, especially around major venues like the MCG.

Where can I watch a popular sport in Melbourne?+

Young and Jacksons is perfect for catching a game with its iconic location and lively atmosphere.

Are there Irish or expat pubs to watch my home team in Melbourne?+

Yes, pubs like P.J.O'Brien's and The Irish Times offer a cozy Irish atmosphere for expats.

Do Melbourne sports bars get busy on game day?+

Yes, they do. It's wise to book a table in advance to ensure you have a spot.

Ratings, review counts and photos are sourced from Google. Bar details can change — check opening hours and whether a specific game will be shown before you head out.