New Gold Mountain

This blink-and-you'll-miss-it bar is a must for those wanting to delve into Melbourne's laneway bar culture. Look for the bike bolted to the wall above sibling bar Double Happiness then climb the fire escape. The first level is a dark lair of origami light fittings, antique chairs and electronic beats. Upstairs is a riot of red lanterns, carved screens and slinky jazz. There are no menus, so what you drink depends on the mood of the bar staff (who can be a touch aloof at times). Thankfully they deliver long, strong, expertly mixed cocktails using only the best booze. There's beer and wine, too, but at NGM, the cocktail's the thing.