Above Board

As an owner and bartender of a bar, I have to say this is a wonderful place to spend your time either yourself or with your friends and family.
Nice interior design, nice atmosphere, nice staffs.
Ive tried 3 classics and 1 signature, all of them are amazing, the Old Fashioned is the most impressive one, the balance of bitter&whisky are perfect.
All in all, this bar absolutely worth the world wide rank and the price, Im sure I’ll come back again next time I visit Melbourne!

Dimly lit and intimate cocktail bar suitable for date nights or catchup with loved ones. Impeccable service from the moment you walk in. We ordered the classic negroni and “better late than never,” which is whisky based. I loved the fridge full of chilled glassware and custom stamped ice – opulent touch.

Beautiful space, people and cocktails. Intimate and dimly lit, seating 12 people on the island bar, and there's two 2-person seating behind the bar.

There's no bookings so it gets pretty chancy in securing a seat from about 9:30 onward each night, even harder with parties over 2 people. Worth trying your luck though because of how special this cocktail bar is, and waiting in Beermash downstairs isn't the worst thing.

The 2 to 3 person staff are exceptionally professional and knowledgeable. When we have been stuck on what to choose, it has been easier to describe what we typically enjoy in a cocktail. It allows us to try some old menu items, especially when a few of the current menu items have been tried and loved.

Very interesting that it doesn't stock any vodka at the bar, because it doesn't play a big enough role as one of the few ingredients in any cocktail here (doesn't carry much flavour compared to other spirits).

There's also no dress code. It feels as intimate as your living room, and with maximum class and efficiency.

A very unique experience for a cocktail bar. A take on minimalism meets modern cocktail bar. If you are wanting a fancy cocktail, excellent service, in a bit more of an intimate setting, this is the place for you!

World class cool. Precise cocktails, attention to details and seemless and swift attention to customers. Friendly, amazing music. No lines at the bar just like you would experience a sushi master but in the cocktail way. Every seat in the bar is well placed.

Found the atmosphere pretty boring but who cares, they are the best cocktails I've ever had, if you want incredible drinks at at a reasonable price,go here, only room for maybe 20 people at a time.
I must reiterate... literally the best cocktails I've had, amazing well balanced deliciousness.

Came here for drinks before dinner and we had to come back again afterwards to finish the night. Some of the best, tasty and well balanced drinks I have ever had!
The cocktails were amazing and exactly what you ask for and expect. Service by bartenders was amazing, there was great banter and conversation the entire night. They remember who you are and are super attentive. I didn't get their names, but both the girls and 2 guys working tonight were all amazing. Special mention to the guy in the white glasses, I don't know what all the other reviews are talking about when they say he was rude, me and my partner found him to be funny, pleasant and charismatic, with good banter. All the bartenders listen and can help with specific requests as well. We are definitely coming back again!

If you're looking for a unique and memorable cocktail experience, look no further than Above Board in Collingwood. This hidden gem of a bar (located upstairs from @beermash) is small and intimate with only 12 seats, but packs a punch with its creative and delicious cocktails. It made No.44 of The World's 50 Best Bars 2021. 👏🏽

They offer Signature and Updated Classic cocktails which change frequently. If you’re anything like us you may not even know what some of the ingredients even are. We visited back in September so it’s highly likely you may not be able to get these exact ones.

The Hot Minute was a sweet and sour drink that was almost too easy to drink. The Salty Boi with banana miso was multi-dimensional and very interesting. The Old Fashioned, which I usually don't enjoy, was excellent. The Back Burner was next level good - imagine an espresso martini, but better. The HSL had a blackberry, liquorice-like flavor that was unique and delicious.

We essentially made our way through the entire menu, one by one, unable to pick favourites because they were all so good. I love the branded Above Board ice cubes they use, it’s such a cool touch.

The staff are knowledgable and down for a bit of banter if you are! You never have to wait long for your next drink and the prices were reasonable ($23 each), considering the exclusiveness of the bar. If you're planning on visiting Above Board with a group of more than 3 people, make sure to arrive early to secure seats.

⭐ 5/5

Perfectly done, no wonder my mayes have said they'd take me here for a while, and why I've been a couple times. Every drink tastes amazing, the aesthetic and vibe is is on point and the service is beyond superb. 10/10

A hidden entrance (entry via a lane or through beermash) lies a not-so-secret bar (listed as one of the top 50 bars in the world). The space is pretty cosy, believe it’s limited to 16 seats at a time with no reservation policy so recommend to go there early.

Drinks menu is tight but leave it to the bartender to give their recommendations. You are in good hands.

Very cosy, private and unique atmosphere. Loved it! Tried two different cocktails with a friend, both were with a very unique tastes, spicy, aromatic and fresh. The menu is short and simple, goes well with the environment, small and classy. Our host was a friendly man thanks to him, we felt as if we are invited to his gathering rather than visiting his business! Will go back to try other cocktails.

Had the best time at above board! We enjoyed our first drinks so much, that we could not wait to pick our second round. Partner gave flavors for his second drink and loved it. Sadly we discovered this bar way too late, as we are leaving MEL tomorrow.

Best cocktails I have ever had.

Above Board is upstairs (completely separate business downstairs). It's a dark space with no windows but I am told it's one of the most famous bars in the world. I can see why.

Remember it's upstairs :-)

Incredible venue with a great atmosphere. Even on a quiet night, Hayden and Paige were absolutely fantastic, great chat and extremely knowledgeable. Cocktails were amazing, would highly recommend for someone looking for a drink and a chat.

Very cozy, great atmosphere for a cocktail. Friendly bartenders and they will provide you the best recommendations.
Limited seat so we have waited for around 30mins for this hidden gem.
Highly recommended 🍸

This is a HIDDEN GEM! In a slightly secret spot, this cocktail bar is intimate and ambient. You really do feel like you’re in a private bar, as the seating surrounds the bar tenders.

Many divine drinks and concoctions to choose from, and if you’re unsure, ask the friendly and charming bar tenders and they will recommend or make a drink catered just for you 🍸

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Melbourne

Outstanding service and vibe with some of the best cocktails you can get anywhere. These guys really care about every little detail in your drink and the atmosphere around you as you sip on it. A small, beautifully designed space intended to cultivate conversation and appreciate the craft

Intimate cocktail bar featured in The World’s Best 50 Bars (the only bar from Melbourne).

Centre stage is a beautiful island seating just 16 people. Similar to a high-end omakase experience, top-quality cocktails are produced with accoutrement hidden away. Highly recommended for a quiet drink with a small group.

$20-25 per drink

Great cocktails with attentive service to boot. If you like winding down and having a good chat with your bartender, this is definitely a good place for you. A very private, close, and personal venue for a drink. I find myself frequenting this place every time I am in town.

Such a cute little gem !! Great value for the cocktails. So well-prepared and service is excellent. They really know what they’re doing and happy to provide a recommendation.