Black Pearl

A nice hidden, ‘above-the-noise’ kind of cocktail bar. From the alleyway entrance, to the entrance way and stairs, to being greeted by our friendly server. We only stopped in for 1 drink each due to the hour of our arrival, but for our first time visit we both thought it was quite a nice place. The exposed wooden beams and general atmosphere and fit-out of the bar was quite subdued but comfortable. Brighter than most cocktail bars this size or style. The menu was interesting, a few stood out, but again due to time we just picked 2 that we thought would be different to what we had been having at other most recent bars. The drinks were tasty, well presented and balanced. Did they blow us away? I would say no, but the quality definitely suggested that had we stayed and tried a few other drinks on the menu we may have had a better idea of what the mixologists were capable of. This is somewhere we will have to re-visit and update this review. But for our brief visit and quick drinks it was still a pleasant experience and would still say it is worth visiting to see for yourself if you are in the area (they take walk-ins).

First off, every Friday or Saturday there is a bar upstairs called The Attic where you’ll find some of the most well crafted cocktails in Melbourne with an incredible atmosphere to boot. The music, vibes, and bartenders will have you sat the bar for hours talking about the heart that went into their recipes. I did my rounds hitting all the top recommended bars in Melbourne and this was easily one of my favorites. Pictured here is “The Revolver” which was a wonderful chocalatey cognac type drink paired with chunks of dark chocolate to compliment the sip. If you’re a fan of the craft you MUST come here.

Atmosphere 7/10 Entrance through an alley, located on second floor. Cozy, warm atmosphere. Cool back bar. Pleasant music volume. Empty on a Sunday night Drinks 6/10 Recommendation: - Funky looking menu with pictures. Small menu with only couple signature drinks, which are all a bit too simple for my taste. The presentation reminds me more of a lounge than a high end cocktail bar. Pre-mixed martini in a bottle might be efficient but does not contribute to any sort of cocktail bar feeling I’m looking for. Coasters are nice. Service 7.5/10 Super friendly bartenders and water served immediately. Prices are about average for melbourne

Very vibey and amazing drinks!! Staff are super chill and polite. But yeah the drinks are insaneeeeely good and ambiance is super nice for date night. Very very reasonably priced for the size and strength of the drinks too 🫶

Delighted I stopped by - excellent cocktails (I loved the Nebula), friendly and pleasant crew. Water served as soon as I sat down, with lovely moody ambience. I was bar hopping around Melbourne on the recommendation of the staff in each place I visited, and I was strongly advised to try the Black Pearl. They also gave me excellent spots to try out - it's really special to find bartenders who are brilliant at their craft, uplift others, and want their customers to have a good time and great drinks.

Visited the Black Pearl- the Attic tonight and will leave already knowing that I’ll be missing this place… On a short trip to Melbourne from Sydney and read all the reviews. Had to see if everything lived up to the hype. I can safely say that my high expectations have been exceeded!!! I am currently writing this from my booth… already reminiscing about the high quality cocktails, excellent customer service, expertly curated atmosphere with music to match (shoutout to whoever put on Hermanos Gutierrez). IF YOU’RE READING THIS- MAKE SURE YOU MAKE IT PART OF YOUR ITINERARY!!!! Thank you to the Attic staff- you made our night memorable ❤️

Amazing service and an immaculate feel to the whole space. The bartenders are very welcome doe cocktail enthusiasts of all levels be you a novice or otherwise. Good conversationalists too and a warm community join that evolves into something exciting and memorable. Can't recommend enough and easily one of the best.

Honestly, $67 for two old fashioneds and a mocktail, which were all terrible. Highly out of balance with an almost offensively silly orange "garnish". Yeah, nah.

- talented bartenders - friendly bartenders - nice date spot - food looked good, but I didn't try it

This is the one bar in Melbourne I've ever been to where the bartenders were consistently so friendly and so good at what they do. I had a classic cocktail, and a London Calling. I love when you can put your trust into someone behind the bar, and they take care of you, just like a doctor prescribing medicine. Liquor is the cure-all, forget-all tonic. And Matt at the Black Pearl is a mastermind at his craft. The bartenders at the Black Pearl will serenade you with smooth drinks in hand sure to sweep you off your feet. Historically, they've got a lot of awards under their belt. Claims to the list of the World's 50 Best Bars, Best International Cocktail Bar and the Spirited Awards. So if there modest amount of winning titles don't get your attention, just slip in on any Friday or Saturday night. This place is popping out some good cocktails. It's a bar you can get lost in and spend many a nights. Also, there's a secret bar upstairs, you're lucky to get into, they are always at capacity on weekend nights.

Brilliant cocktails First time I've been in ages and the customer service was out of this world from Hugo

One thing that has always impressed me about 'Black Pearl' and what the locals know it for is their incredible cocktails. The venue is dimly lit and quite intimate. When you're sitting back and sipping on one of their (somewhat pricey) amazing cocktails, you will find a sense of euphoria... Yes the cocktails are that good. A few weeks ago I had the pleasure of visiting Black Pearl, I savoured the 'Blueberry Hills' cocktail. A mix of Havana Club, Blueberries, Syrup and a few other treats will make your head spin with joy. If cocktails dont tickle your fancy, they have over 20 beers and a small wine collection. Cocktails range from around $20 - $30, Beers anywhere from $9 - $15 and Wines begin at $10.

I think that Black Pearl is the kind of place that would divide opinion greatly. In that respect, it is a bit like vegemite - you either love it or hate it. I hate vegemite but I love a really well made cocktail. For people that are looking for a quick drink and just want to get shitfaced on the cheap, Black Pearl is not for you. For those just craving the best cocktail there is and a piece indulgence albeit at a leisurely place, then this is the place for. The cocktails are expensive (~$20), but you really get what you pay for. The staff are really friendly and are really accommodating if you have any special requests. I often will just order a scotch based cocktail and give them free reign on what they wanna do with it.

This might be showing my age but what is with places these days having the lights so dim that you can't read the menu!?!? The menu itself is pretty cool - lots and lots of cocktails that they have put onto the back of their very own trading cards. Food menu was far less impressive with only about five bar snacks on there. The price of cocktails was about on par with what I've seen in other places (about $20) but the other drinks were a bit pricey. It seemed upmarket when I walked in but the clientele did not fit in with the décor. That is good because you felt more relaxed however it sort of mixed the vibe up a bit. But to be honest, I couldn't see that much... did I mention it was dark?

Bit of a warning: things can get messy pretty quickly here. The drinks are amazing, the list ever-changing and the staff willing to make your favourites or create something special to tickle your fancy. The vibe is pretty relaxed, but upmarket. You need your pennies to spend a significant amount of time here, and it's easy to do because the couches are comfortable and the staff are an absolute bunch of spunk rats.

The best part about this bar is how unpretentious it is. Although it made the top 50 best bars in the world list for 2014, walking in I felt very relaxed, as if I was just visiting my neighbourhood pub where everyone knows my name. They do all the typical mixed drinks, but they for sure know how to make some amazing cocktails. As this was the last stop for the night, we stuck to the menu. I ordered something gin based and Miguel's was whiskey based- Miguel's ended up being the winner for the evening. The bar itself is spacious, with some outdoor seating, lots of couches on the ground floor (good for couples or small groups) and also an upstairs bar that may or may not be for private functions. Definitely a great spot to check out if you need a nightcap or if you're in the mood for a casual night!

We went to the Black Pearl after dinner a few weeks ago. I love a good cocktail and a good Tom Collins is so hard to find at times. It sounds so simple to make but, at the same time, it's so easy to mess up..... Not at the Black Pearl though, I can honestly say it was one of the best Tom Collins I've had. I love the joint but, then again, it's really hard not to - cool name, fantastic location: right in the heart of Fitzroy, best dressed bartenders I've seen in Melbourne (and apparently they know their scotch too!), comfy couches, dim lights (love dim lights!), toliets upstairs to make you regret having one too many on your way back down.. Now, Black Pearl is not just about Tom Collins - their menu boasts a broad range of cocktails. I had the Passion of the Christchurch as well and it was really good. The price range is up there so expect your wallets to cop it a bit but heh, I reckon it's ok to give yourself what you deserve once in a while.

Black pearl is one of the first proper bars I went to. Even returning after more than 8 years of original visits, it still feels fundamentally the same inside. Things have changed, but at the same time they haven't. Black pearl's changing cocktail menu, usually seasonally, is fantastic. As of a couple of years ago, black pearl added a little space/bar upstairs, the attic. It can get quiet here on weeknights at the start of the week, but when this place is busy, it's usually not much fun, as fighting your way through the hordes of endless people is a challenge. Those outside tables seem to be forever occupied, come rain, hail or shine. You are rewarded at the bar with drinks, as once you have your customised cocktail, its usually worth the wait. either this or chose one from the list, or play around with the spirits on the back bar, of which you'll find many thing of appeal. Yes, there's a lot of expensive options- whiskey selections, and cocktails as well as the wide range of other tipples. Black pearl also has the wine by glass and bottled beer/cider option too, that seemingly, at least one of your friends' will choose when venturing down. I have been here many times, and haven't had any issues, but am scratching my head as to my lack of review to date.

On a recent trip to Fitzroy, I found myself throwing open the door of Black Pearl on Brunswick Street after a few beverages which were enjoyed at both Naked for Satan and Mana Bar. I had heard whispers from people "in the know" over the last few months that recommended this place as a drinking venue when I was looking for something new and was in the general Fitzroy area. Those whispered voices certainly did not lead me astray. One of my favourite places to drink in Brisbane is a bar called The Lark. It seems to be well known by the afficiandos of fine beverages and I found it set a "Melbourne standard" when it came to quality, service and atmosphere. It was one of the few highlights in Brisbane and I was sullen after I found it as it took me around a year to get out to Paddington to try it out. It wasn't long after making the discovery of this fine drinking establishment that I moved back to Sydney. The reason for the aforementioned preface is that when I entered Black Pearl, it reminded me of The Lark. It had a number of customers but it did not feel packed. People were enjoying themselves but it was not loud. Barflies languished at the bar however there was still room to place an order after having a chat with the barman. The bar remains a focal point on the ground floor and it doesn't matter if you are relaxing in the lounge area or watching the sketchy characters wander past through the window, the bar never seems far away. It is well stocked and the menu has some unique concoctions and an excellent cocktail list. I found the barman to both know and have drank at The Lark in Brisbane as he lived near the boozer at one point. When I told him that I thought the Black Pearl resembled The Lark, he took that as a compliment and a bond was formed. The other barflies overheard our conversation and I got to chatting with other strangers of the night and found everyone to be very pleasant and interesting. The "vibe" is much different here compared to places in the CBD like the Gin Palace as there is no feeling of pretension, which really doesn't exist in Melbourne as it does in Sydney anyway, but I just had a more relaxed feeling and experience here. The service was extremely professional and when we were not discussing the best parts of Brisbane or Adelaide, some very potent and refreshing drinks were prepared. I enjoyed a perfect Winston Churchill Martini using gin that was sourced in Western Australia. I thought it was great and on par with what you would get at the Gin Palace. The cocktails also did not disappoint and found a certain amount of bliss drinking the "Condelezza" which should not be confused with the former US Secretary of State. Follow the stairs up one level and you will find the toilets and another drinking area aptly called "The Attic" which allows you to enjoy a more intimate setting. Both levels though were indeed quite a find; a diamond in the rough so to speak in an area where I did not expect to find a place of such superior quality and service mixed with a fun vibe. It proves that expectations will only lead to ambiguity and disappointment if you do experience anything new without an open mind.

The bar staff were smick and very funny even after we spilt wine all over the floor. The drinks were great and the over all feel was fun yet chilled and relaxed. I could easily see myself comming back here for round 2

I think the bartenders here win my award for best uniform. They all look spiffing, and seem to have been instructed to charm the pants off every woman that comes in and orders a drink. I'm not complaining, I must say. The sign outside always has some alcohol related quote, which I find quite at odds with a cocktail bar (perhaps a pub?). I don't know why this is, after all, cocktails do indeed promote the enjoyment of alcohol. Perhaps I'm being too snooty, or not snooty enough, but look past the sign and it's a great place for a few drinks with friends. The cocktails are great, too.

Zack, Chris and Rob really do make magic happen at the Black Pearl! My lovely flatmate introduced me to this little slice of heaven the very first week I lived in Fitzroy. It was love at first sight. One of the best whisky/rye/scotch selections around. Fantastic artisanal drinks. And you don't even have to stick to the menu. These guys know their stuff, and enjoy giving you a taste of something you've never had!

Dim lit. Comfy couches. Cushions. More cushions. And of course cocktails. My circles of friends seem to like choosing Black Pearl as their birthday drinks location. Yes, their cocktails a good and pricey, but no more pricey than every other cocktail joint, and they have a good selection of beers and wine, and so on. My story is for all the cider lovers out there. They don't have any. A shame it is. However, and this is the part I really like, the bartender was more than happy to whip up a little something especially for me. Nothing makes you feel like you're better than everyone else than your very own cocktail. It was sweet, with a hint of tartness, and very appley (if that's even a word). When I asked, "What do you call it?" He simply said, "The Cider Substitute".

Ok maybe the decor was cool 7 years ago but that's not why you go there. You go there because you are a little bit drunk and ready to be a lot more 'merry' and have cash to burn on very delicious cocktails especially the espresso martini (essential start to your 'black pearl cocktail experience'). Its also one of those wonderful places that you can ask for a bar tender special (just name the base spirit) and they will make you something magical that you may try to recreate at home but fail miserably. It's generally pretty social there too so you may end up in a stranger's cocktail round. Now that's fun.

Spends but worth it. Not your run of the mill bartenders either. These guys know their libations and I would defy anyone to find a better cocktail in Melbourne

One of my new favourite bars! Great vibe, super friendly bar staff, and exquisite cocktails. The interior of the bar is cozy and upscale without being pretentious. They have an cute little drink menu made of personalised drink cards that offers a description of each cocktail and its ingredients. I enjoyed the "long shot" and another cocktail called "penicillin" that was a bright Tinkerbell green colour and absolutely delicious. I can't wait to go back!

Where all the bar staff from other bars go after work. What does that tell ya? Good vibes, nice people, artfully made drinks. These guys and gals love what they do and it shows. Top notch, world class mixology. Don't miss out!

Still going strong after being a mainstay in the area for a longtime...the absinthe is a winner but will lead to memory loss.

I like the vibe. The bar staff made an effort to chat and be friendly. But for me the prices are ridiculous. I paid $9.50 for a local can of beer. I know cocktails are their thing but they're not mine and the don't serve pints or even schooners so it's a very uneconomical place to chill out. It's nice enough but this is Fitzroy not Manhattan!

This place was cool, we found a nice comfy seat on the couch for four and had some drinks. I have no real complaints and I'd likely return if needed. But I'm not a huge fan of some of places along Brunswick street just North/South of Johnston. They get way over crowded with a unique type of crowd imo, and start to take on a bit of a Crown Casino vibe rather than a chill Fitzroy vibe. Kinda like Naked for Satan down the street. It's just a personal thing I think. Otherwise it's a cool little conveniently located spot for a drink with nice decor. Maybe frequented on a less busy night would offer a more memorable experience.

Very professional outfit. I don't know how they run such a tight ship. Quality control is killer, drinks are always amazing and service is so friendly. They also know how to handle pirate drunks without guards... seriously impressive.

Atmospheric, brooding yet comfortable, the Black Pearl offers a trendy yet affordable alternative to Fitzroy's many swanky venues. This is certainly not to say that the Black Pearl isn't stylish or popular, it's just a little more accessible then most Brunswick Street bars. Located just down from the junction of Johnston Street, the Black Pearl's dark tinted floorboards, funky lighting and comfortable sofas make this unique lounge bar an excellent place to start your night or the perfect location to spend a cold winters night. With a great list of wines, spirits and cocktails the Black Pearl has something to offer even the most skeptical punter, however, food is limited to snacks and it is often crowded.

Great atmosphere, staff snd cocktails. Staff incredibly knowledgable in their craft. Great lounge feel.