Gin Palace: The Original Melbourne Speakeasy

Before rooftop bars and neon-lit cocktail spots took over the city, there was Gin Palace. Tucked away down Russell Place since the 1990s, it remains one of Melbourne’s true icons — moody, seductive and still buzzing after all these years. Sink into a velvet lounge, order a martini the old-fashioned way, and watch the night unfold in candlelight. The charm is in its refusal to change; Gin Palace doesn’t chase trends, it defines them.

The Drinks: A Celebration of Gin in Every Form

The menu reads like a love letter to gin. From classic London drys to small-batch locals and rare imports, it’s a collection that honours both heritage and craft. The martini list alone is worth the visit — sharp, clean and always ice-cold. Bartenders here are veterans, not mixologists with gimmicks. They pour with confidence, not flair, and every drink feels intentional. For those less gin-inclined, there’s an equally considered range of whiskies, champagne and late-night indulgences to match the mood.

The Atmosphere: Glamour, Grit and a Little Mystery

Dimly lit and heavy with velvet, Gin Palace feels like it exists in its own time zone. The décor nods to old-world decadence, the soundtrack hums with quiet jazz, and the crowd is a mix of artists, executives and night owls who appreciate a proper drink. It’s one of the few places left where you can lose track of time without feeling rushed. A true Melbourne classic that proves luxury doesn’t need polish, just personality.