Best Bars in Essendon North 2026
Going out in Essendon North does not have to mean a taxi to Chapel Street. The local bars and pubs have enough variety for a proper night out without leaving the suburb.
What to Expect
A solid mix of pubs and bars that cater to the local crowd. Nothing too wild, nothing too quiet — just reliable places to have a drink on a Friday night or catch up with friends over the weekend.
What You Will Pay
- Pints of tap beer: $10 to $14
- Cocktails: $18 to $24
- Wine by the glass: $11 to $16
- Spirits: $10 to $14 for a standard pour
Some venues in Essendon North run weeknight specials — $10 cocktails on Tuesdays, half-price bottles on Wednesdays. Check their socials for current deals.
Best Nights
- Thursday: The local warm-up night. Venues are full enough to have energy but not so packed you cannot get to the bar.
- Friday: The main event. Book tables where possible.
- Saturday: Can be quieter than Friday in Essendon North — locals head into the city or to bigger strips.
- Sunday: Several pubs do Sunday sessions with live music or DJs. Underrated.
Getting Home
Public transport options from Essendon North run until midnight on most lines. On weekends, Night Network services extend later. Ride-share is usually $15 to $30 to surrounding suburbs depending on surge. If you are driving, leave the car — street parking near bars gets monitored.
Related: Nightlife Guide | Transport Guide | Cost of Living
