Damask Bar

At last, a bar in Fitzroy where you aren't afraid to walk on the carpet or enter the toilets. Sure, the folks at Damask Bar put their pants one leg at a time like the rest of us, but they do it so stylishly you'll swear you were attending an up-market, boutique bar in the city. And that's basically it; inner-city vibe without the pretension, this bar is as classy as the neighbourhood gets.

Many folks start their night with some cheap finger food. Stuffed mushrooms, thick-cut potato chips and smoked chicken skewers (and more) can all be had for under $8. Beers range from local boutique (James Boags, 3 Ravens Blonde, Mountain Goat Indian Pale Ale and more) to impressive imports (Zyweic, Dos Equis, Budejovicky Budvar and more). Wines are given a similar treatment, and while most hover around the $7-$10 mark, you probably won't regret the expenditure.

The outdoor courtyard is where you'll find most of the areas hipsters and faux-bohos. It's not exactly on the large side, but small groups can avail themselves a few chairs and make a night of it easily enough.