Dining experience

Venue highlights

Accessibility & convenience

Good to know

• Guest restroom on site.
• Reservations suggested for peak nights.

Reviews

• Amilliah

  ★★★★★

  “Bar Selecta in Hawthorn is a true hidden gem and one of the coolest bar experiences in Melbourne. I visited on a Friday night and even though it was busy, I still had an amazing time standing by the side sipping my drink. The bar is tucked down a quiet laneway off Glenferrie Road, giving it that secret spot feel which makes the whole experience feel special. The Cherry Lane mocktail I had was beautifully balanced and creative, perfect for the vibe. The drinks program here is thoughtful with playful and seasonal cocktails alongside whisky, sake and more. The space is tiny and intimate, with only a few seats at the front bar and more room in the lounge and outdoor courtyard, but it still feels welcoming even when packed. The music is a highlight, expertly curated Japanese style playlists and vinyl sets give it a unique listening bar feel that adds depth to the experience. The vibe overall is relaxed, stylish and a little mysterious, perfect for a Friday night drink with friends or a first-date spot that’s a bit different. If you love good cocktails, a great music atmosphere, and discovering a laneway bar with personality, Bar Selecta absolutely delivers. I’ll definitely be back to explore more of the drinks list. 🍸✨”

• Jacob Toner

  ★★★☆☆

  “Bar Selecta has a great drinks menu with inventive twists on classic cocktails. My standout was the rum & raisin old fashioned. I was sat in the Listening Room which lacks the vibes of the main bar. I think not being in the main area also meant it was a little hard to get service and we had a bit of a wait between rounds. I’d go again if I could sit at the bar.”

• Anneliese

  ★★★★★

  “Heard about this bar online and can admit it is very hidden and took us a while to find. We found it in the end and loved how quirky it was. They have an outdoor and indoor seating area, and play music throughout the place. They offer a range of cocktails, sake & whisky. We started off with cocktails & ends with a small glass of sake. Keen to go back to try more of the drinks.”

• Nephilitic

  ★★★★★

  “Incredible bar. It's small and intimate but that's what makes it so special. Great attention to detail and the DJ spinning vinyl adds to the vibe. Try the moon cake cocktail!”

• Shalyn Tan

  ★★★★★

  “⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hidden gem in Hawthorn! Bar Selecta is a must-visit speakeasy with a vibe that’s both classy and cozy. The Yuyake Mizuwari Highball is impressive — every sip perfectly balanced and truly memorable. I hope it makes it to the winner’s list in the competition! The Fly Me to the Moon, their Mid-Autumn special cocktail, is an absolute standout — crafted with their one and only moon cake gin and paired beautifully with fresh infused cherries. What a perfect match! Thank you to the team for making the night so special. Can’t wait to come back and explore more of your creative cocktails! 🍸🌙 #sassydiners”