Top 5 Eclectic Bars

Webster defines eclectic as, "selecting or choosing from various sources." "Assorted", "diverse", "free" & "miscellaneous" are other ways to describe this word.

So what then makes a bar eclectic?? In my opinion, it probably uses a bit of this & that, a mish mash of elements that combine to form a unique drinking experience.

I recently ran a poll here to find out from you what you think to be the Top 5 most eclectic bars in Melbourne and based on your inputs, the results are as follows:

TOP 5 ECLECTIC BARS

1. The Croft Institute
21 Croft Alley, Melbourne, (03) 9671 4399 www.thecroftinstitute.com.au

The Croft is hidden away in a laneway off Little Bourke St. I've been there a few times but still manage to get lost somehow. This chemistry-lab themed bar is a one of a kind bar, almost eerie in certain parts. The first level features some science lab test tubes & beakers in their display cabinets. Sit on their high stools or squeeze in the tiny alcove benchs whilst "experimenting with" their vast array of imported beers from Tiger to Amstel & the like. The second level creeps me out a little with their hospital beds within the toilets, reminescent of a scene from Exorcist III. Finally head upstairs for some groovy tunes and check out the astro turf on the bar counter as you dance the night away.

2. The Butterfly Club
204 Bank Street, South Melbourne, (03) 9690 2000, www.thebutterflyclub.com

Personally, this is one of my fave eclectic bars. Only because everytime I go there, I discover something new about the place. In fact, everytime you look away and look back at a spot, you find something novel & interesting. This Victorian shop-converted-bar is touted as a "Cocktail Lounge & Cabaret Salon". And indeed it is, you feel a little like Dita Von Teese - a burlesque star, in all her glory as you saunter into the inimitable beauty of The Butterfly Club. Level 1 takes you to the cosy velour couches by the fireplace filled with intricate knick knacks, antiques from Granny's collection & takes you back to your childhood days, where you feel like a kid again, unearthing new gizmos. Walk out the back and there's an even more intimate section with warm red lighting & loungey cushion couch areas - and surprise surprise, a toilet in a shed. (Look out for a blow up doll above the toilet) Upstairs discover 2 rooms with even more items on display - some people call it clutter, I prefer to call it beguiling. Hang out upstairs for a game of "sip & strip" or other board games of your desire.

3. Madame Brussels
Level 3 , 59-63 Bourke Street , Melbourne, (03) 9662 2775, http://www.madamebrussels.com/

Who is Madame Brussels?? Do we really care? I know I don't but I certainly like the idea of a rooftop terrace bar with a grassy patch of astro turf leading to a bar manned by bartenders dressed in tennis outfits. Cocktails are served in carafes to share with your friends & unwind on a friday night after work. During the colder months, the waiters offer fleece blankies to keep you warm & rugged up as you huddle up with friends on benches in the rooftop terrace, staring at the stars amidst the city skyscape.

4. Workshop
Level 1, 413 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, (03) 9326 4365, www.theworkshop.com.au

Expect a laid back atmosphere & casual crowd, there are no dressy wannabes or wanky yuppies here. It's actually an old motorcycle repair shop-turned bar but don't judge this bar by its basic exterior. You'll be intrigued by the several welcoming spots to wind down at within this charming bar. Admire the modern art & prints hanging on the wall by the booths or hang out at the cleverly designed, seemingly enclosed, outdoor area surrounded by leafy green hanging & potted plants. It gets pretty packed out on fridays but there's always room for everyone. Groovy break beats and tunes make it hard not to like this place, it only lacks a dance floor to make it perfect. But who's to stop the brave young thing from cutting a rug across the bar.

5. Sweatshop
113 Lonsdale St, Melbourne, (03) 9663 6363, www.seamstress.com.au

I love Sweatshop. When you're out on a Saturday night and endless queues form outside the pretentious, showy bars, you will always be able to find solace at Sweatshop. Located at the ground level of Seamstress restaurant bar, this grungy bar offers an inviting respite from a busy day. Featuring boxy wooden crate-like seats around the bar & racks on the ceiling, the friendly bartenders whip up both fancy cocktails and standard drinks effortlessly. Walk up a flight of stairs into a backyard with atypical decor - a hawaiian chick painted on the wall, a rustic hut with bar stools & bamboo fences are amongst some interesting things you might spot there.