Frog's Hollow Saloon

At first glance, Frog’s Hollow Saloon screams fancy boozer. The fit-out is timber-and-brick heritage, curated menus decorate the tables and there’s a glut of talent running the show that would be the envy of most bars around the country. But that’s where the pomp ends. Like sister bar, Alice, this is a venue that’s top-to-bottom approachable. You order at the bar, not in your seat; the music leans towards jukebox rock; and the fanciest thing on the snack menu might be the toasted sandwich.

Considering the team behind the place (the collective resume ticks off the Gresham, Bianca, and seminal Melbourne cocktail bar, Black Pearl), you’d be wise to get on the cocktails here. A past highlight was the Scofflaw-inspired Copper & Brass, mixing Sazerac rye with dry vermouth, fig and pomegranate. The list is fueled by a huge selection of independent whiskies and gins from around the world, with plenty of Australian entries in the mix. All up, the back bar carries more than 350 bottles.

If cocktails aren't a vibe on your visit, there's also a short, sharp list of mainly Australian small-producer wines on offer. Alternatively, you'll find six beer taps pouring Guinness, XXXX Gold and Moondog seltzer and rotating craft beers from local breweries. The saloon also pours American diner-style coffee if you need a little pick-me-up.