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MELBOURNE | Union Electric is one of those bars that really exemplifies all that’s good about Melbourne’s small bar scene. Owners Huw Griffiths and Shane Whiteley have transformed what used to be an unused space between two buildings on Heffernan Lane, into a small, narrow two storey bar popular for its great drinks, music and atmosphere. Downstairs is the original covered bar, which opens out into the open air space while upstairs is the more recent tropical inspired gin bar extension.
The focus is on fresh ingredients and quality spirits, with most of the cocktails featuring Union Electric’s freshly squeezed juices, fruits, vegetables, micro herbs and housemade shrubs, vinegars and syrups. The result is some very tasty drinks. The Lola, with Coco Lopez Coconut Cream, Ginger, Pierre Ferrand Curacao, and Bombay Sapphire, is especially delicious. Upstairs there’s a greater focus on gin and vermouth based drinks, and with over 40 gins and almost as many garnishes, it’s one of the best places in town for a gin and tonic.
For those who don’t want cocktails and spirits, there’s an impressive selection of mostly local wines, from quality producers like Vinteloper and Sam Miranda, and local craft beer from breweries like Sample and Feral, and some interesting bottles from the likes of Boatrocker and Brewski.
There’s no kitchen here, but you’re more than welcome to bring in your own food or order in food from any number of nearby restaurants – the bar staff will even provide you with plates & cutlery & napkins. The only proviso is that you avoid food that is excessively messy or especially smelly, and don’t order kebabs.
Music wise it’s old school soul, funk, hip-hop and R&B, including not just popular classics but a lot of deep cuts – album tracks, remixes and the like. It’s all pretty chilled and played at a level that allows for conversation.
Union Electric
13 Heffernan Lane
Melbourne
Victoria 3000
Australia
Telephone: 0450 186 466
E-mail: n/a
Website
Open
Mon – Thu: 5:00pm to 1:00am
Fri – Sun: 12:00pm to 1:00am