"We’re kind of underselling Bar Liberty by calling it a wine bar. Sure, there’s a list loaded with lo-fi, biodynamic wines sourced directly from independent producers, presented by well-drilled staff who know how to find you The One. But there’s also a ripper beer selection, a decent assemblage of mezcal and grappa, and imaginative cocktails built with mostly local liquor. The Martini uses olive-leaf gin from the Yarra Valley wine region, and a Japanese Slipper is stained blue with Melbourne-made curaçao. Appetizers like gruyere-filled pierogi and smoky kabanosy skewers draw on the chef’s Polish heritage, as does the excellent value $80 Sunday lunch set menu. Servers with zero pretense and a room with many intimate nooks make this the perfect date spot, and in warm months an astroturfed courtyard opens up so you can slosh about in the sun." - Ellen Fraser
