Whitehart Bar: Melbourne’s Favourite Container Bar (and an Open-Air Music Haven)

Tucked away in one of Melbourne’s many laneways, Whitehart Bar is a two-storey oasis built from shipping containers and steel beams, softened by lush greenery and ever-changing projections that light up the space. Despite its industrial roots, the vibe is anything but cold—think ferns creeping up the walls, DJs spinning until late, and an open-air setting that shifts from laid-back afternoons to high-energy nights.

Founded by Stephen Johnson and business partner Sabrina Santucci, Whitehart has cemented itself as a go-to in the CBD for quality drinks, great tunes, and a buzzing atmosphere.

Cocktails, Craft Beer & Good Times

Whitehart’s drinks list is as fun as its atmosphere, with cocktails inspired by childhood flavours—standouts include Honey, I’m Home (Starward Honeycomb, yuzu liqueur, plum aperitivo, lemon, and salted plum sherbet) and Mandy Fizz (their house-collab gin with mandarin and saltbush syrup, lemon, and soda). Fans of tiki classics will love Bird is the Word, a peachy, passionfruit twist on a Jungle Bird, while Cherry on Top is a nostalgic nod to childhood cherry soda, all grown up with vodka, Amaro Montenegro, and wild thyme shrub.

The bar leans into seasonal ingredients and local distillers, keeping things as fresh and sustainable as possible. Beer lovers will find plenty to explore, with rotating taps and regular brewery takeovers keeping the selection dynamic. Whether it’s a crisp lager, a bold IPA, or something more experimental, there’s always something new on pour.

Wine drinkers aren’t forgotten either, with a curated selection of Australian and international wines poured by the glass and bottle, perfect for slow afternoons or lively nights.

More than just a bar, Whitehart is a hub for music lovers, with a diverse lineup of DJs, live acts, and special events throughout the week. Fridays and Saturdays bring high-energy DJ sets, spanning everything from house and disco to hip-hop and funk, making it a prime spot for those looking to dance under the stars.

Sundays take on a smoother, more relaxed feel with live jazz sessions, making it the perfect place to wind down the weekend with a drink in hand. Whether it’s electronic beats or soulful saxophones, the music at Whitehart is always on point.

If you're after a quick bite, Whitehart has bar snacks to keep you going—think Santucci’s hummus with corn chips, salted pretzels, and almonds. If hunger really kicks in, +39 Pizzeria is just around the corner and can deliver Neapolitan-style pizzas straight to your table.

Whitehart is also dog-friendly, with Hop Nation’s Dog Brew available for four-legged visitors. Whether it’s an after-work session, a late-night dance, or a lazy afternoon drink, this urban jungle has the atmosphere, drinks, and tunes to match any mood.