Long-anticipated bar Fancy Free to open in Little Collins Street

Fancy Free, the long-anticipated bar from the all-star bar team of Rob Libecans, Matt Stirling and Ryan Noreiks (all formerly of Fitzroy's award-winning Black Pearl) finally has a home.

After travelling around Australia (and the world) for the past year, doing ridiculous balloon-and-plastic-shark-filled pop-ups backed by very serious drinks, on February 12 they'll open at 381 Little Collins Street, the huge premises that was previously home to 8Bit Burger.

They're stripping the video-game designs out of the long premises and installing murals by artist Aaron McKenzie, a long but narrow bar that will let the crew chat to drinkers, and an informal dining room for the rotating food operators. A notable Sydney food brand is confirmed for the first two months followed by stints from hatted restaurants.

The team's vision for cocktails will unite some classics, including low- and no-alcohol options, and originals they have been trialling including the Grape and Grain (Scotch whisky and berry sherry infusion of applewood, strawberry, blueberry and verjus). Wine will also be a focus, with the list being co-ordinated by Sydney's P&V Merchants. Abbotsford's Stomping Ground Brewery will provide the beers.

Open Mon-Sat 11am-11pm (from February 12).

381 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, fancyfreebar.com.au