The best live jazz bars in Melbourne

Melbourne has no shortage of great jazz venues. From classic clubs to basement bars and local pubs, you’ll find live jazz playing most nights of the week. Here’s the best places to hear live jazz in the city.

Paris Cat Jazz Club

Discover one of Melbourne’s most iconic jazz venues. This club has been hosting live music since 2005, with a strong focus on local talent. The space is intimate and dimly lit, with a cosy underground feel. You can catch jazz shows here almost every night of the week. Cocktails and tapas are available during the show.

Bird’s Basement

Bird’s Basement is the sister club to Birdland in New York. It’s a full dinner-and-show setup with table service and a seasonal Italian-leaning menu. There are two shows most nights — a dinner set and a supper session. Expect big names, serious jazz, and a sharp cocktail list. Upstairs, grab a pre-show drink at Jazz Corner Hotel Bar.

1806

1806 is a cocktail bar that hosts live jazz every Thursday and Sunday. It’s a moody space with velvet booths and a long, polished bar. The music leans classic, with local musicians playing smooth jazz and standards. Cocktails are the main focus here, and they’re done extremely well. Come for drinks, stay for the music.

Dolly

Dolly is the restaurant and bar inside Le Méridien Hotel. Every Saturday, they host free live jazz with a rotating line-up of local bands. Pair the music with a European-style supper menu of oysters, terrine, and fries. The room is stylish but relaxed, perfect for a late dinner and live tunes. Jazz nights run year-round.

Motley Bauhaus

This laid-back pub hosts free live jazz every Saturday in its pressed tin–walled front bar. Anyone can join the jam session, and regulars often bring their own instruments. No bookings are needed, just walk in and grab a drink. The vibe is casual and community-focused. Head upstairs for extra space if it’s busy.

Life’s Too Short

Life’s Too Short is a romantic wine and cocktail bar in a bluestone cellar. Free live jazz plays every week in the candlelit space. There are 28 wines by the glass, 13 beers, and over 50 cocktails. Food is seasonal and designed to pair with drinks. It’s a great pick for date night or a slow Sunday.

Springrock

Springrock is a city pub with free jazz and soul every Friday and Saturday night. Music kicks off at 9pm, with happy hour drinks and a late-night supper menu. Expect everything from negronis to disco fries. The atmosphere is casual and lively, with ample space to sit or stand. Simply walk in, there's no need to book.