A refined loft-style bar hidden in Melbourne’s smallest laneway

Tucked away in a Melbourne,’ Aster is the kind of place you stumble upon and instantly want to keep to yourself. But let’s be honest—it’s too good not to share. Aster is a refined yet unpretentious loft-style bar focusing on quality drinks, effortless ambiance, and one of the city’s most underrated balconies. The team behind Section 8 has transformed this heritage space into a sophisticated hideaway, where mid-century furnishings meet warm lighting, and a carefully curated music selection sets the perfect tone.

Aster respects its past while carving out its own identity. Exposed brick, timber beams, and brass-edged tables create a stylish yet inviting atmosphere. By day, sunlight filters through skylights, offering natural warmth. By night, the space transforms—dimly lit, intimate, and effortlessly cool. And then there’s the balcony - overlooking the ever-changing scene of Tattersalls Lane, it’s a front-row seat to pure Melbourne magic. Grab a drink, light up a cigar (if that’s your thing), and soak it all in.

Cocktails, classics, and a touch of the unexpected

Aster’s cocktail list balances timeless classics with inventive twists. The signature Japanese Skipper is a standout, blending Jimmy Rum Silver with Stache House melon liqueur, Marionette orange curaçao, pandan, lime, and lemonade. For something unexpected, try Brogan’s Breakfast Milk Punch, a fun mix of Brogan’s Way Strawberries and Cream gin, Amaro Montenegro, mixed berry jam, plum dust, and Greek yoghurt. Prefer a little heat? The Spicy Coco Marg with coconut tequila and pineapple shrub might be your go-to. Wine lovers aren’t left behind either. Aster’s feature wine cabinet stocks a carefully chosen mix of local and international varietals, with Australian and European wines by the glass. If beer is more your speed, expect a tight selection of quality brews.

This isn’t a dinner spot, but the menu is designed to complement what’s in your glass. Think bar snacks elevated to Melbourne-level cool: truffle and squid ink salami, fire-roasted peppers with smoked tomato dressing and goat’s cheese, and a duck, pancetta, and pistachio terrine. Cheese and charcuterie reign supreme, with a rotating cheese of the day, whipped smoked trout with trout roe, and house-pickled vegetables rounding out the lineup. Small portions, big flavour—just enough to keep you lingering a little longer.

Forget the typical DJ sets. Aster’s music programme is all about deep grooves and eclectic cuts, carefully selected by local DJs to keep the energy just right. No aggressive dancefloor vibes—just a natural flow that encourages conversation, toe-tapping, and maybe a little movement when the moment feels right. On weekends, DJs play until 2am, adding a gentle pulse to the night without ever overwhelming the space.

Great service is an art, and Aster has it mastered. The team, led by seasoned hospitality expert Manny Platsis, knows when to step in and when to let you just enjoy the moment. It’s warm, attentive, and completely free of pretension—exactly what you want in a spot like this.

Aster is the kind of place that makes an ordinary evening feel just a little more special. It’s where you bring a date you actually want to impress, a mate from out of town who needs a proper Melbourne experience, or just yourself for a quiet escape with a damn good drink. With its effortless charm, killer cocktails, and a balcony that’s borderline mythical in its availability, Aster isn’t just another bar—it’s a place you’ll want to return to, time and time again.

Melbourne’s bar scene is always evolving, but some places just get it right. Aster isn’t trying to be Ferdydurke 2.0. It’s writing its own story—and doing a damn fine job of it.