Canecutters

Canecutters is a moody dive bar sandwiched between some of South Yarra’s harder-to-book eateries. The casual watering hole serves American comfort food, local beers and Guinness on tap.

There’s nothing overly fancy about this spot – and that’s where much of the appeal lies. The dimly lit front bar has black and exposed brick walls, vintage signage, a smooth wooden benchtop and a wall covered in polaroids of local patrons’ dogs, while the back has a pool room and a cosy courtyard. It immediately feels intimate and familiar, the kind of place where you can easily lose a few hours on a weeknight (or any night). And it’s all walk-ins – no bookings allowed.

Beers are the main focus here, with a rotating line-up of local brewers on tap like Philter Brewing, Mountain Culture Beer Co, Kaiju and Moon Dog to start your night, as well as a fridge filled with tinnies. Classic brews by Coopers and Guinness are often on pour, and you might even see Canecutters’ own Southern Hospitality red IPA, made in collaboration with Fixation Brewing Co. There’s also a small selection of wines and cocktails.

On the food menu, it’s all about classic American comfort dishes. There’s a BLT with crispy bacon, tomato, lettuce and creamy mayo. And the original fried chicken sandwich with iceberg lettuce, mayonnaise and McClure’s pickles on a potato bun pairs well with crispy fries.