Vineyard St Kilda

The Vineyard bar and restaurant in St Kilda has long been a Mecca of cool, where yuppies mix with rogans (rich bogans) and the odd biker, and the local fire-twirling set get cheap stubbies of VB. During our colder months, the bar attracts a variety of locals and tourists, all eager for comfy couches, live music and some gastro grub. But in the warmer months, the Vineyard takes on a whole new life. Hundreds stream in from all around, filling the bar and the outside beer garden to the gills. And being right in the heart of St Kilda (it's within screaming distance of Luna Park), the Vineyard's never short on entertainment. There's nothing fancy about the booze offering here. Beer (locals and boutiques) and bourbon and cokes are par for course, while the wine list does have a few nice choices for those in the mood for fermented grapes. But people don't come here for the alcohol.

They come for the atmosphere, the crowd and the music. Sure, it may seem like a great jumping off point for any evening out, but most people arrive and kick on till late. And there's (usually) no cover charge, so you can spend your money on drinks. If you happen to drop by during the day, you can also get a decent coffee, lunch and even an a la carte dinner. The seated dining area makes for great respite from the rabble outside; while the chairs and tables outside are a fine spot for a vitamin D fix. - The Beat