Down past the well known Meyers Place and Loop there is a bar in a relatively nondescript building that announces itself without fanfare, just a black curtain behind a doorway. Quite the opposite of the feelings inside the bar of Art Deco opulence that is Lily Blacks.

Website:

Lily Blacks

Location:

3/12 -18 Meyers Place Melbourne (CBD)

Difficulty Finding:

- Pretty Easy, if you keep walking past the other bars you will be left with only one option.


Entry to Myers Place off Bourke Street.

Summary:

- Type: Cocktail Bar
- Food: Snacks
- Music: Lounge Music
- Cover: None

Review:

While this is a simple and unassuming bar situated in very close proximity to some of the original bars that have set up Melbourne’s bar scene; Lily Blacks still manages to make its presence known through the use of style and service that bar patrons have come to know in Melbourne’s newer bars. Lily Blacks has done very well when setting up the vibe for its bar considering the building layout basically consists of a large square room with some toilets. This is done by invoking an Art Deco feel, the use of booths around the far side of the bar and the bar itself; a large arc that occupies the centre of the room complete with a centre module with a healthy display of spirits.

Lily Blacks has refined their cocktail list so while it is not long, it is succinct so that every drink on the list is a winner. Even if the drink that you so desire is not listed then the bartenders will gladly make it up for you. The cocktails are probably slightly closer to the expensive side of things but this is justified by the size and quality of the drinks served to you. In fact if visiting when it is not too busy such as during the week you may not need to leave your seat at all unless for bathroom breaks as the helpful staff set up a tab for you and keep the juices (be it alcoholic or non alcoholic juices) flowing as long as you like.

During busy times however it can be difficult to grab a seat or get served as a long bar means lots of people at the front and only a few people to serve them. The seating situation can be remedied as booths can be booked if you’re the kind of person who plans ahead. The bartenders also do their best to make sure you are not waiting too long for your next tasty beverage.

Final Thoughts:

This is the kind of bar that will never disappoint and with friends will always have a good time in. Just being inside makes you feel as if you’re living the opulence of the Art Deco era.

Pro’s:
+ Well themed
+ Good vibe
+ Well thought out cocktail list
Con’s:
- Can make life difficult when busy
- Cocktails a little on the expensive side

Score:

Atmosphere: Good
Service: Good
Menu: Average
Cost: Poor
———————-
Overall:Average