Riverland Bar

Yes, we certainly live in an awesome city. Sure, it's easy to sound smug when issuing such sentiments, but any visitor to mighty Melbourne usually leaves with plans to pack up their life and permanently move back. With bars like the Riverland Bar, it's easy to see why. Set on the banks of the Yarra River, and right on the city's edge, this humble, little bar offers simple treats in a relaxed setting. Indeed, it's the perfect respite from the madding crowd, lurking mere metres away (looking at you, Transport). Indeed, our warmer months will find the place packed with a mixed crowd of urban types, all eager to shrug off the working week with a cold beer, a snag and a chin wag. The interior is a rustic mix of exposed red brick and bluestone melded with modern aesthetics - stainless steel bench tops, steel beams and drop lights - plus the odd architectural flourish. Meanwhile, outside is your standard issue chair and tables/bar stool set up, complete with toasty heaters to keep you at least partially warmed in our harsh, Melbourne winters. There are also a host of specials during the colder months (like meal deals or hot, mulled wine) to keep the coffers filled. There are a few beers on tap - Asahi, Stella, Pure Blonde and Carlton Draught. Wine buffs will delight in the varietals covered in the list - mainly Australian, with a few New Zealand and French drops thrown in for good measure. Of special note is the impressive collection of premium spirits. Those fond of a Johnnie Walker Black neat (of course) would do well to settle in here for a night.