Bar Privé draws inspiration from the Marvellous Melbourne’s golden era—when the city’s late 19th-century economic and architectural boom gave rise to the Gothic Bank precinct. Echoing the concealed atmospheric vault chambers and underground offices of the time, the space also nods to the private clubs and discreet drinking dens of the Victorian era.

At Bar Privé, cocktails are rooted in the great drinking traditions of Europe, with a particular focus on French fortified wines, aperitifs and brandies. Here, the drinks take centre stage, creating space to explore classic serves, nuanced flavours and exceptional ingredients in greater depth, elevated by thoughtful tableside touches and a bit of theatre.

We believe cocktails are more than drinks — they are rituals shaped by the occasion, the company and the time of day. With that in mind, the menu is divided into four categories — Aperitif, Signature, Martini and Digestif — offering a natural progression through the evening. Guests may begin with a classic Kir Royale, move into refined signatures and martinis as the night unfolds, and finish with something rich, bitter or spirit-forward after dinner.

Complementing the drinks is a menu of bar snacks by Reine & La Rue Executive Chef Andy Roche, offering a more relaxed expression of the restaurant’s culinary philosophy, with cocktails in mind. The menu balances comfort and refinement, with dishes such as pork scratchings with French onion powder, panisse with roast garlic aioli and a decadent French baguette dip.

Bar Privé can also accommodates private gatherings or full privatisation as part of the broader Privé experience, serving as a natural meeting point for arrival drinks.

Walk-ins welcome, bookings recommended.