Love live music? Melbourne's your city. From iconic pubs and cosy nooks to the big stage under the stars, Marlon Williams' takes us on a tour of his top spots to catch a gig in the city.

Marlon Williams' One and Only in the City

Marlon Williams' One and Only(s)

The Drunken Poet

The Drunken Poet

With live Irish music, the Drunken Poet is a real locals' pub - cute, cosy and friendly.

Forum Melbourne

Forum Melbourne

This theatre with its iconic architecture is one of Melbourne's most popular live band venues.

John Curtin Hotel

John Curtin Hotel

The Curtin prides itself on delivering craft beers, delicious food and incredible live music.

Heading out for dinner but spoilt for choice?

Our city experts have you covered. We pressed MasterChef Judge Sofia Levin and chef Tom Sarafian to choose their One and Only in the City. A tough ask, but they’ve come through with the goods. Check out their picks below.

Sofia Levin’s One and Only in The City

Sofia Levin's One and Only(s)

Embla

Embla

Casual wine bar and restaurant with an open-plan space and wood fire and grill.

Nana Thai Style Hotpot & BBQ

Nana Thai Style Hotpot & BBQ

Enjoy traditional Thai-style street food and barbecue.

Mandina Kitchen

Mandina Kitchen

Experience the taste of Yemen at Melbourne's first Yemeni restaurant.

Tom Sarafian’s One and Only in The City

Tom Sarafian’s One and Only(s)

Carlton Gardens

Carlton Gardens

A World Heritage Site known for its Victorian fountain and tree-lined avenues.

Caretaker's Cottage

Caretaker's Cottage

Smart drinks, top tunes and good times in a beautiful old cottage.

Lee Ho Fook

Lee Ho Fook

Enjoy critically acclaimed cuisine exploring the flavours of China with a modern Australian lens.

Only In The City

Secret city spots that offer the real Melbourne vibe

Secret city spots that offer the real Melbourne vibe

Discover Melbourne's hidden gems in sprawling laneways, nostalgic food halls and bespoke boutiques.

Things you can only do in the city

Things you can only do in the city

There's only one place to find these rare Melbourne experiences and secret spots.

Only in the City

Only in the City

This city hums with energy - with hidden laneway cafes, rooftop bars, art and culture at every turn.

Discover more

The best pre- and post-theatre dining in Melbourne

The best pre- and post-theatre dining in Melbourne

Fuel up before a big show or extend your city visit at these local eateries.

Your guide to Melbourne's official Koreatown

Your guide to Melbourne's official Koreatown

Travel to South Korea from Melbourne with the best fried chicken, K-BBQ and more.

Voodoo Bar and Grill

Voodoo Bar and Grill

Enjoy burlesque, barbecue, cocktails and cabaret at Melbourne’s newest speakeasy.

Karaoke

Karaoke

Sing your heart out at one of Melbourne's fabulous karaoke bars.