Melbourne: a cultural melting pot where music, cocktails, and drama merge to create unforgettable nights. But if you want to go deeper than the flashy scenes at The Melbourne Arts Centre or Queen Regents Theatre, we can certainly razzle dazzle you with our list of more intimate venues. The best jazz bars in Melbourne are equally rivalled by quirky and boisterous cabaret clubs, all offering spectacular arrays of live performances. So put those jazz hands on the wheel of your GoGet to discover iconic Australian jazz, where the atmosphere is great and the live shows are even better.

Sultry Cabaret Scenes: Live Performances Any Night of the Week

The Butterfly Club: An Eclectic Gig Space for All Creatives

Tucked away in Melbourne’s CBD laneways, The Butterfly Club is a haven for music and theatre lovers. Its whimsical atmosphere and diverse weekly lineup make it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Melbourne’s cabaret scene. From one-act plays to burlesque performances, you'll never see the same thing twice. Up a few flights of stairs, work up a thirst before you hit the low-lit room and observe the decor on the walls ranging from Franken-Barbies to leg lamps. Try their espresso martini as you sing along to Broadway and show tunes on Thirsty Thursdays held once a month.

Vau d'vile Drag Cabaret 

Vau d’vile Drag Cabaret in Melbourne is a dazzling realm where spectacular drag performances meet culinary delights. Guests witness a kaleidoscope of talent as the venue's drag artists enchant with lip-syncing and energetic shows. Savour delicious tapas on Friday and Saturday nights. At Vau d’vile, it's not just a club, but a community celebrating inclusivity and the art of drag, making every visit a memorable experience in one of Melbourne's premier cabaret clubs.

Jazz Bars in Melbourne: 

The Paris Cat Jazz Club: Iconic Rhythms in the Heart of the CBD

The Paris Cat Jazz Club, in the heart of the CBD, is an icon for jazz music in Melbourne. With a small bar that sells the best cocktails and shows that book out quickly Thursday through Sunday nights, the Paris Cat offers the authentic vibes of a traditional jazz club. from tributes to full swing bands, the red brick walls and floor-to-ceiling velvet curtains will make you feel like you've just stepped into a top jazz club in Manhattan.

Lido Jazz Room: A Cozy Nook for Jazz Aficionados

A bar hidden within a classic cinema in Hawthorn, the Lido Jazz Room offers a unique blend of visual and auditory delights. As far as unique jazz clubs in Melbourne go, this one is well known for its cozy atmosphere and resounding acoustics while hosting some of the finest local and international jazz musicians. Patrons will gather around the in-house piano and drum kit as the basement setting seats 40 people weekly every Saturday night. Grab a drink from their rooftop bar before a night of live music, sure to capture the hearts of any jazz enthusiasts.

Jazzlab: A Hub for Contemporary Jazz Fusion

In Brunswick, Jazzlab emerges as a beacon for contemporary jazz. Located in an unassuming brick building, this venue is renowned for its commitment to innovation and fusion. It's the perfect spot for those seeking a place to listen and lounge amongst up-and-coming artists. Something this jazz venue does differently is support young musicians be seen, including students, women, non-binary, and LGBTQI+ identifying people. Now THAT is music to our ears! 

Melbourne: A Mecca For the Best Jazz Bars and Cabaret Clubs

Melbourne's jazz and cabaret clubs are integral to the city's cultural identity. These venues, each with a unique character, contribute significantly to Melbourne's reputation as a global jazz hub. From intimate hidden venues to bustling clubs, Melbourne’s jazz scene offers something for every music lover, making it one of the best places in the world to experience the true essence of jazz and cabaret. With such a sprawling cityscape, you'll definitely need a GoGet to see them all (with a designated driver of course!), so pop on some show tunes and tell us: which venue is your favourite?

Looking for more Melbourne inspiration? Check out our Top 10 Things to Do in Melbourne: A Comprehensive Guide and if you are feeling peckish, our list of the best Mexican restaurants in Melbourne is sure to hit the spot.

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