Best Melbourne Bars For A First Date

Knowing which bar to take a first date to can be a tough one. Even though you want it to be special, you don’t want to be too far out of your comfort zone where your nerves might get the best of you.

There are lots of things to think about for a first date and as boring as it is, your budget is a big one. You don’t have to go somewhere that the cocktails cost a month’s pay to have a good time.

But whether you’re watching your pennies or not, there are many small, funky, unpretentious bars popping up all over the city, with great ambience. A lot can be done with wood panelling, mood lighting and a low key play list to make a place cosy and conducive to getting to know each other.

Likewise, rooftop bars and bars with balconies are also ideal date spots, especially in summer. Laid back and fun, these places are romantic while something about being outdoors can help take the pressure off that first night out.

If you’re not really sure of how the night is going to go, sitting up at the bar so you can also chat to the barkeep for drink suggestions will not only help break the ice, but can also be a good fallback if the conversation hasn’t taken off.

But whether your date is in a groovy cocktail spot or an upmarket pub, staying relaxed so you can have fun is the best kind of sexy there is.

Sarah Murray, Citysearch