Ivanhoe’s pubs scene is working-class, authentic, community-focused — and the pubs reflect it. Whether you want a quiet midweek drink or a full Friday night, there are options that don’t require leaving the suburb. Happy hour (usually 5-7pm) knocks $3-5 off at most places.
Our Top Picks
1. Felix’s — 3 East Parade
Hours: Wed-Sun 4pm-1am Vibe: Industrial-chic, conversation-friendly Drinks: $10-12
The pub the suburb rallies around. Felix’s gets the fundamentals right — good drinks, comfortable room, staff who know the menu. The spirits selection rotates monthly, which keeps regulars from getting bored. The courtyard is the best spot — less crowded, better acoustics.
Drink this: The rotating craft tap ($10-12). When to go: Friday after 7pm for live music.
2. Leo Store — 230 Elm Street
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-11pm Vibe: Wine-focused, small plates
The quiet achiever. Leo Store doesn’t have a PR budget or an Instagram strategy — it has regulars who come three times a week. The beer garden is the draw. Their natural wine selection is surprisingly deep.
Best night: Wednesday trivia (free entry).
3. Marco — 225 East Parade
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-11pm Vibe: Cozy wine den, candlelit Drinks: $10-12
Opened in 2025 and immediately became a regular spot for the under-35 crowd. The cocktail list references classic recipes with local twists. The space is tighter than Felix’s — maybe 50 people before it feels packed — but that’s part of the appeal.
What makes it work is the attention to detail. The glassware is considered, the ice is proper, and the bartenders actually taste what they make before serving. The non-alcoholic cocktail list is genuinely creative, not an afterthought. If you hit capacity, put your name down and walk around the block — turnover is quick.
Drink this: The house old fashioned ($10-12). Pro tip: Arrive before 7pm on Friday to avoid the wait.
4. Southern Place — 282 Collins Place
Hours: Tue-Sun 5pm-12am Vibe: Pub grub elevated, beer garden out back Drinks: $10-12
The one for when you want food with your drinks. The kitchen runs until 10:30pm and the sliders are genuinely good, not bar-food-as-afterthought. The wings have a proper chilli kick.
The drinks list complements the food — an approachable wine list that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s the kind of place where you come for one beer and stay for dinner because you smell the kitchen.
Best combo: The burger with their house lager — simple and perfect. When to come: Sunday afternoon — relaxed, the kitchen is unhurried, and there’s live music.
5. The Red Kitchen — 108 Collins Place
Hours: Tue-Sun 4pm-12am Vibe: Laneway entrance, exposed brick, jazz on the stereo Drinks: $10-12
The vibe pick. Not the best drinks on this list, but the laneway entrance creates an atmosphere the others can’t match. It’s the place to bring someone you’re trying to impress, or to photograph, or both.
The drinks list is classic cocktails executed cleanly, no gimmicks. Food is limited to bar snacks and a single dessert option but you’re not here for the food.
Best for: Sunset drinks on warmer evenings — arrive by 6pm for the golden hour.
Comparison
| Venue | Best For | Drink Price | Kitchen | Live Music |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Felix’s | Overall best | $10-12 | Yes | Fri-Sat |
| Leo Store | Quiet drink | $10-12 | Yes | Sun sessions |
| Marco | New & trendy | $10-12 | Snacks only | No |
| Southern Place | Food + drinks | $10-12 | Full menu | No |
| The Red Kitchen | Atmosphere | $10-12 | Limited | Acoustic sets |
Practical Info
Happy hour: Most places run 5-7pm weekdays.
Getting there: Public transport options in Ivanhoe. Don’t drive on Friday/Saturday nights — parking is scarce after 6pm.
Dress code: None of these are bottle-service-and-bouncers. Clean casual everywhere. The Red Kitchen skews slightly smarter but won’t turn away anyone in jeans.
Age check: All venues are 18+. Bring ID if you look under 25 — they will ask.
Nearby
- Melbourne CBD Pubs
- Ivanhoe Restaurants — eat before or after
- Ivanhoe Things to Do
- All Ivanhoe Guides
Last updated: March 2026
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