The Global Drinker — World Bar Guide
Union Electric
Melbourne, Australia
Melbourne is synonymous with laneways, and Union Electric has captured that vibe in its open-air, exposed-brick bar. If you're a sun chaser, the bar's got you sorted with a rooftop slice in the sky that becomes hot property in the warmer months. The bar team is full of energy and always encourages guests to get loose – not a difficult feat when aperitivo 'hour' runs for two (5-7pm on weekdays) and drinks range from 6 to 10 AUD. The focus here is on freshly pressed fruit juices, gin and rum; think of the drinks as modern tiki without the cultural appropriation. Cocktails change seasonally, but if you're a stickler for the tried and true, Union Electric makes the best pina colada in Melbourne. As for food, the bar encourages you to bring take out from neighbouring venues (it's in the middle of Chinatown, bordering the Greek precinct), but your food choice must abide by one rule: no kebabs.
13 Heffernan Lane, Melbourne, 3000 · $$
Awards & Rankings
- Roadbook 2025 — #6
- Above Board — Melbourne
- Apollo Inn — Melbourne
- Bar Olo — Melbourne
- Bar Bellamy — Melbourne