Bond Lounge

As sophisticated as its name implies, Bond Lounge has been an icon in Melbourne's after-work drinks scene since its opening. The CBD location means that most city workers and dwellers have wandered through the doors at some point in their life, in search of a little cocktail action and perhaps a shimmy on the dancefloor. With a choice of chill out rooms servicing the hip, young crowd, a lady's bathroom that resembles a Hollywood makeup room and a happening rotation of DJs, this architecturally designed wonderland is an adult's playground.

The interior's smooth, retro styling leads the eye on a voyage through this pleasurable, underground domain of curves and alcoves. Chocolate tones mix with beige and cream to create a soft palate which you can easily use to paint the town red. Meanwhile, the dancefloor beckons your hips into action with the latest house and R&B wonders - shock as you watch many a punter loose themselves to wild abandon. And if you're more of a seated kind of drinker, then make the lush, leather booths your friend for the night. The side room even has table service.

Drinks wise, you could do worse than order the ubiquitous vodka martini. Use your imagination and explore the worlds of the caprioska, the julep and the cosmopolitan (perfect for the lady's powder room'). You should also entertain spirits as your drink of choice, with the attention here being paid to high-quality first pours, rather than your standard issue engine cleaners you'll find elsewhere.