A hidden cocktail bar in Chinatown with rum, reggae and rooftop energy.

Union Electric Bar: Rum, Rhythm and Laneway Cool

Tucked down Heffernan Lane, Union Electric hums with that unmistakable Melbourne mix of looseness and precision. It’s part tropical hideaway, part back-alley dive, with palm leaves, neon, and reggae rolling through the speakers. The bar team work fast but never rushed, shaking cocktails that are as fun as they are balanced. You come for the vibe and stay because the drinks keep getting better.

There’s a pulse here that never feels forced — it’s the kind of small bar energy that built Melbourne’s nightlife reputation.

The Drinks: Rum Rules, But Not Alone

Union Electric built its name on rum, but the backbar runs deep. Expect daiquiris with bite, highballs that hum with citrus, and rotating specials built on tropical fruit, spice and house infusions. There’s local gin, small-batch whisky and an excellent natural wine list for when you’re pacing yourself. Every drink feels handcrafted, not hyped.

Upstairs, the rooftop is one of the city’s best kept secrets — an open-air pocket for cocktails under the skyline glow.

The Vibe: Laid-Back Chaos That Works

The crowd is as mixed as the playlist — hospo pros on their night off, date-night couples, post-work crews. It’s unpretentious but electric, running on good music, good spirits and bartenders who clearly love their work. There’s always laughter, a little bit of chaos, and just enough edge to keep it interesting.

Union Electric is what Melbourne does best: hidden, honest, and always worth finding again.