The Raccoon Club: Thornbury’s Best-Kept Secret

If you know, you know. The Raccoon Club sits quietly off High Street without a sign, relying entirely on word of mouth — and that’s the point. It’s a bar made for locals, by locals. Inside, the space is stripped-back and lived-in: mismatched furniture, vintage beer coasters, worn timber and a backyard that feels more like your mate’s house than a pub. It’s low-key, unpretentious and effortlessly cool.

The Drinks: Independent and Proudly Local

The taps rotate constantly, pouring some of Australia’s best small-batch craft brews — from hazy IPAs to smoked porters and sours that hit just right in summer. There’s a short but clever wine list, all Victorian producers, plus a handful of whiskies and gins that change with the seasons. No mainstream beers, no commercial deals, and no regrets.

Snacks are kept simple: local jerky, pretzels, and the occasional pop-up food truck parked out front. The focus is firmly on the beer and the banter.

The Vibe: Real People, Real Conversations

This isn’t a place for influencers or cocktail theatrics. It’s for people who just love a good drink and good company. The Raccoon Club hosts open-mic nights, charity events and the occasional trivia, but mostly it’s about laughter, community and a few dogs napping under tables. It’s Melbourne’s inner-north at its best — raw, real and proudly independent.