Dog's Bar

Opened in 1989, and laying claim to being Australia's first bar, Dog's Bar wears its pedigree with pride. This relaxed bistro-style space, with its bentwood chairs, open fireplace and jarrah communal table, offers an intimate setting away from St Kilda's madding crowds, though if you are here to people-watch, you can catch the Acland Street action from the terrace tables. Service is no-frills: order a regional Victorian or Italian wine from the 200-strong list at the counter, then traipse it back to your table. Behind the bar, fresh-baked bread is sliced to order and served with antipasti. Pizzas and pastas round out the options.