Afterwork Venues for Hire in Melbourne

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Afterwork Venues for Hire in Melbourne
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Melbourne

A Guide to Hosting an Afterwork Event in Melbourne

It's not just the mornings that are abuzz in Australia's cultural capital, Melbourne. After-hours here are just as exciting, with a fantastic mix of culture, food, and entertainment and plenty of after-work hangouts that go way beyond the usual.

Only in this Aussie city can one step out of the office and straight into Melbourne's iconic laneways. The air is filled with delicious smells of street food, and there's always something new to discover, from hidden bars to pop-up shops. No matter what you're in the mood for – whether it's a gourmet burger or just a classic coffee – the city's food scene is the perfect way to unwind after a busy day.

But Melbourne has more to offer than just great food. The city is also known for its rooftop bars, which offer stunning skyline views. These rooftop spots are ideal for networking or simply unwinding with friends after a long day.

If you're looking for something a bit more laid-back, Melbourne's waterfront has plenty to offer. The Yarra River is lined with great places to enjoy a drink or meal while watching the city lights dance on the water. You can even hop on an after-work cruise to really take in the views and unwind.

Melbourne knows how to throw a party, especially when it comes to nightlife. From the cool bars in Southbank to the funky clubs in Fitzroy, there's always something going on. Live music, DJ sets, and lively crowds make for a great night out.

In Melbourne, finishing work is just the start of the fun. The city invites you to explore, relax, and enjoy its buzzing after-hours scene. So, let's dive in and start planning the best after-work event in Melbourne for your team.

1) Start the Fun With the Styles of After-Work Venues in Melbourne

Melbourne is a city that never stops, with lots of great places to go after work for a bit of downtime. The city has a thriving culture and a party scene with something for everyone, whether you're looking to unwind with a quiet drink or dance the night away. Here's a quick guide to some of the best types of after-work venues Melbourne has to offer. Each one promises a unique experience and a fun way to unwind after work.

1. Cosy wine bars: Australia's wine culture is remarkable, so if you're looking for a stylish and intimate setting, Melbourne's wine bars are the perfect choice. These venues offer an extensive selection of local and international wines, often paired with gourmet cheese and charcuterie boards. 

Most also offer a sophisticated atmosphere where your team can sample vintage selections over good food and conversation.  With soft lighting, plush seating and expertly curated wine lists, these places are ideal for relaxing and catching up with colleagues or friends.

2. Trendy rooftop bars: Melbourne's rooftop bars are the epitome of chic after-work hangouts. With stunning views of the city skyline, these venues offer the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement. Grab your team and head to a rooftop bar for a laid-back vibe with panoramic views and a wide selection of cocktails and cigars. 

The fresh air, stylish decor, and fun atmosphere make them a favourite with many Melburnians who want to enjoy the evening breeze and stunning sunsets with their after-work party.

3. Exclusive cocktail lounges: For a touch of glamour, Melbourne's cocktail lounges offer a luxurious escape. These venues are famous for their expertly crafted cocktails, elegant furnishings, and sophisticated ambience. 

With soft lighting and smooth jazz or acoustic music to enhance the experience, it is the ideal place to sip on creative concoctions and enjoy the finer things in life. Whether you prefer classic cocktails or innovative mixes, these lounges offer a sophisticated and relaxing environment.

4. Live music venues: Music lovers will enjoy Melbourne's live music scene. These venues host a variety of local and international acts, creating an electrifying atmosphere for music lovers. From indie rock to jazz, there's always something exciting happening on stage. Live music venues are perfect for laid-back after-work parties that allow your team to discover new bands, enjoy live performances, and soak up the energetic vibe that only live music can offer.

5. Cafes and coffee shops: Melbourne's coffee scene is unbeatable, so if alcohol and late nights aren't quite your team's style, opt for a more relaxed after-work celebration at a cafe or coffee shop. 

These venues offer a range of coffees, teas and light bites, which are perfect for unwinding in a quieter environment. Often open until late, these cafes are ideal for quietly catching up with team members and enjoying a peaceful end to the day. The relaxed atmosphere and comfortable seating make them a great alternative to the bustling bar scene.

2) Explore the Best Neighbourhoods to Host After-Work Events in Melbourne

Ok, we’ll admit it—Melbourne is pretty fantastic. From cool alleys with street art to upscale neighbourhoods and a pretty swanky CBD area, all of this Australian city is great for events and after-work parties! But to make things easier for you, we’ve narrowed down our favourite neighbourhoods to host an after-work party in Melbourne.

1. Fitzroy: This is where the cool kids hang out, and for good reason. This bohemian neighbourhood is full of trendy bars, cosy cafes, and unique event spaces. Bring your team to one of the many rooftop bars to sip craft cocktails and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Whether it's a casual evening or a more structured event, Fitzroy's artistic flair and vibrant nightlife make it a top choice.

2. Southbank: Southbank is the place to be for a touch of class and sophistication,. Nestled along the Yarra River, this area boasts some of Melbourne's finest dining and entertainment options. Take your team for a riverside meal at one of the chic restaurants, followed by cocktails at a stylish bar with stunning city views. 

Southbank's elegant yet energetic vibe makes it perfect for a more sophisticated after-work event.

3. St Kilda: If your team loves the beach, St Kilda is a no-brainer. This seaside suburb offers a relaxed, fun atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day. Enjoy a beachside BBQ or a sunset gathering at one of the beachfront bars with your team. 

For some adventure, why not hire some paddle boards or bikes and explore the coastline? St Kilda's beachy charm and vibrant nightlife make it the perfect place for a relaxed yet memorable after-work event.

4. Central Business District: Melbourne's CBD is a bustling hub of activity and a convenient choice for after-work events. Here, you'll find a variety of options, from rooftop bars with stunning views of the city to underground speakeasies that offer a touch of mystery and excitement. The CBD's central location and diverse offerings make it a versatile and dynamic choice for any after-work event.

5. Richmond: With its rich sporting history and vibrant pub culture, Richmond offers a vivacious and energetic setting for after-work events. Known for its many pubs and bars, this area is perfect for a more casual, fun-filled evening. It's just the space for teams that enjoy live music and hearty pub fare. If your team is full of sports enthusiasts, watching a game in a local bar can be a great way to bond and unwind. Richmond's energetic atmosphere and community spirit make it a fantastic choice for a relaxed and fun after-work event.

3) Think Costs: Budget for an After-Work Party in Melbourne

Planning an after-work event in Melbourne? Let's break down the costs for you!

Prices for after-work venues in Melbourne can vary based on location, size, amenities, and popularity. To help you budget effectively, here's a general guide to expected costs across different budget categories in Melbourne.

Budget-friendly spaces: These venues cost €40 to €70 per hour. They usually offer basic facilities and are ideal for informal meetings or small groups on a budget. Options in this category could include quaint cafes, local pubs, or basic bars.

Mid-range venues: Expect to spend between €70 and €150 per hour for mid-range venues. These venues offer a balance between cost and quality, with more space, a more premium atmosphere and a variety of food and drink options. They are ideal for medium-sized meetings or corporate events.

Premium venues: High-end venues cost from €150 to €350 or more per hour. These luxurious spaces offer top-of-the-range services and facilities, making them ideal for formal events, business meetings or large gatherings. Options in this category often include fine dining restaurants, rooftop bars or luxury hotels.

Additional Costs to Consider:

  • Catering
  • Audiovisual Equipment
  • Decor and Setup
  • Service Charges and Taxes
  • Entertainment
  • Transportation

4) Event Caterers to Elevate Your After-Work Event 

You can’t throw an after-work party without great food, and Melbourne pulls all the stops when it comes to this, too! The city’s diversity ensures that catering here is a world-class experience, literally. Whatever cuisine you want, chances are Melbourne has it. Here are our top picks of event caterers in Melbourne to elevate your after-work event.

1. Yum Catering: From Spanish paella and Moroccan tagines to Thai delights and Greek feasts, Yum Catering offers a whirlwind tour of global flavours. Their ability to customise menus ensures that your event is perfectly tailored to your guests' tastes, with tempting dishes that promise to be a hit. 

2. Milk the Cow: If the name doesn't give it away, we'll explain! A cheese lover's delight, Milk the Cow's stunning cheese grazing tables will elevate your event. 

Their expert cheesemongers create visually and gastronomically stunning displays that are sure to be a hit with your colleagues.

3. Peter Rowland: A staple in Melbourne's catering scene, Peter Rowland is famous for its sophisticated and high-quality menus. Whether you need platters, salads or their famous chicken sandwiches, they easily cater for small and large after-work events with ease.

4. Nem n Nem: Bringing the zesty flavours of Hanoi to Melbourne, Nem n Nem offers a tempting Vietnamese hawker menu. Choose from fluffy baos, refreshing vermicelli salads, and crispy dumplings, with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.

5. Big Flavours: Living up to its name, Big Flavours specialises in bold, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients. Their menu includes crowd favourites such as Wagyu beef burgers, fresh salads and smoky pork ribs, perfect for a relaxed yet indulgent atmosphere. 

5) Going the Extra Mile for Your After-Work Event in Melbourne

When a city is as dynamic and vibrant as Melbourne, there are countless ways to make your event stand out and give your guests a unique experience. From fun transportation options to engaging activities, here's how to turn a typical after-work gathering into an extraordinary celebration.

  1. Local wine and cheese tasting: Create a local wine and cheese tasting station where guests can sample some of the finest Yarra Valley wines and local artisan cheeses. It's a delicious way to showcase Melbourne's celebrated wine culture.
  2. Live street art: Melbourne's street art is a big part of the city's culture, so why not hire a local street artist to create a live mural during your after-work event? It'll add a dynamic visual element and capture Melbourne's vibrant street art scene, offering guests a unique and creative experience.
  3. Pop-up laneway bar: Street art is great, but take it a step further and recreate Melbourne's famous laneways with a pop-up bar serving craft cocktails and boutique beers. The intimate and eclectic atmosphere will give your event a quintessentially Melbourne feel.
  4. Aussie BBQ session: You know Aussies love the great outdoors, so if your after-work venue allows, treat your guests to an authentic Aussie BBQ session. With a selection of grilled meats, seafood, and vegetarian options, this classic and hearty meal will surely leave everyone satisfied.
  5. Interactive art installations: Include interactive art installations where guests can contribute to a collaborative piece. This engaging activity not only entertains but leaves a lasting impression and a unique memento of the event.

Wrapping Up

That's a wrap on our guide to hosting an after-work event in Melbourne! We hope you've found our tips helpful. 

If you need help finding the perfect venue or expert advice to make your event a success, just reach out. Our local team is ready to help you with our Ask an Expert feature.

Thanks for joining us. Here's to your next amazing after-work event in Melbourne!

A Guide to Hosting an Afterwork Event in Melbourne
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FAQs about Melbourne Afterwork Venues

Melbourne's weather can be pretty unpredictable, so it's a good idea to plan outdoor after-work events with the seasons in mind. From September to February, spring and summer bring plenty of sunny days and mild evenings, which are great for outdoor gatherings.

Just remember to be prepared for sudden changes. Melbourne is known for its 'four seasons in a day' phenomenon, so having a backup plan or some shade and heating options is a good idea.

Autumn and winter (March to August) bring cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain. While outdoor events are still doable, you might want to consider bringing blankets, heaters, or even moving your gathering under a tent to keep guests comfortable. It's always a good idea to check the weather forecast and have a flexible plan, so your after-work event in Melbourne is a success, rain or shine!

It's a good idea to choose venues close together for your main event and after-party, especially as the city's traffic and public transport can get pretty bad. Just a heads-up: Melbourne's traffic can get a bit congested during peak hours, which can impact travel times.

If you choose an after-party venue close to your main event location, you can reduce the risk of delays and ensure guests can move easily from one venue to the next without having to fight their way through heavy traffic.

On top of that, Melbourne's public transport system, which includes trams, trains and buses, is extensive but can get very crowded during busy times. If your after-party venue is close to the main event location, guests are more likely to use public transport efficiently without having to deal with overcrowding or long wait times. This is especially important if your event goes on late into the evening when transport services might be less frequent.

Picking a venue nearby also means you can make the most of Melbourne's great tram network. For example, if your main event is in the CBD, places like Fitzroy or Southbank are easily reached by tram, so guests can keep the party going without making complicated travel plans.

If you're putting together an after-work event in Melbourne, go for a relaxed, informal vibe that reflects the city's laid-back style. Pick venues with a cosy, modern feel, like trendy bars or chic lounges. Ensure you focus on serving top-quality, locally sourced food and drink, and consider including Melbourne's strong coffee culture.

Think about including some live entertainment or local art to match the city's love of culture. Going for sustainable and eco-friendly practices will also fit in well with Melbourne's environmental values. These little details will help you create an event that feels both engaging and authentically Melbourne.

In Melbourne, after-work spots usually stay open late, often until 10 or 11 PM. Some bars and lounges might even stay open until 2 AM or later on weekends. Closing times can vary from place to place and from day to day, so it's always a good idea to check ahead or make a reservation if you're planning a late night out.

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