St. Jeromes': laneway bohemia

If you can find Calendonian Lane, behind the Myer department store, check into the chatty little street party in the courtyard behind St. Jeromes'. At times aurally intriguing (Interpol, The Commodores, Kelis then The Beach Boys (!), the vibe is one of ‘university share-house’ meets Australian BBQ couture. The bar’s courtyard, sprawled couch ensemble provides plenty of nooks for those who want to manufacture close-talking conversations. Get in before being unpretentious gets too interesting and the place loses its charm. It’s buzzing every night and is an ideal way to escape the cold, hard surfaces (and doorstaff!) of many of Melbourne’s laneway establishments.

St. Jeromes' Defining Experience: Having to move from your perch on the seemingly-abandoned bar fridge out back, so the bar staff can get some milk.