Prudence

Housed in an old terrace just up from Queen Vic Market, dark and moody Prudence has become the de facto living room for many Melbourne musicians, the quintessential local even for those who don't live in the neighbourhood. The window seats are perfect for people-watching or quiet contemplation, upstairs you'll find plenty of crannies where you can sink back a few and make a night of it and the covered courtyard out back is in use year-round. The bartenders are cool yet friendly, and while there are better drinks lists in town, there's little to complain about when you have a Coopers Pale or a well-mixed G&T in hand.