Cocktail Party Venues for Hire in Melbourne

Your Guide to Hiring Cocktail Party Venues in Melbourne

Not sure where to start with your planning process? Here are some tips from our team to set you on the right track:

• Location – Since a cocktail party is traditionally a commitment of only a couple of hours, you don't want to make your guests go all the way across town in the afternoon traffic. Find a venue that is easily accessible to all the people invited and your party will be a blast.
• Food – If you wish to serve some appetisers with the cocktails, make sure to check out the menu of your desired venue beforehand to see if they can provide that service. If not, you can contact the manager and ask if you can bring in your own appetisers. Last but not least, don't forget to include non-alcoholic drinks for the designated drivers!
• Theme – This can mean decorations, dress code and also the drinks! Many bars offer a cocktail of the night deal that is cheaper than the normal price would be. Let your imagination run wild and come up with an original and fun theme to make your cocktail party even more memorable!

Lacking inspiration? Take a look at some of the best cocktail party ideas to use in Melbourne:

• Retro charm – If you were looking for a reason to bust out old, hilarious outfits from the previous decade, we can give you one – have a retro-themed party! Combine all your favourite songs in the ultimate throwback playlist and enjoy the ambience.
• CubaLibre – Want to feel like you're dancing to the rhythm of salsa in Havana without buying an expensive plane ticket? Enjoy a range of rum-based cocktails at a Cuba-themed party with exotic tunes in the background.
• Movie theme – Whether you enjoy Sex in the City or James Bond, a well planned movie-themed cocktail party is a great choice. Sip on cosmopolitans while you gossip or have a vodka martini, shaken not stirred, and become your favourite character for the night.

Check out some of the most popular locations for cocktail party venues in Melbourne to help narrow your choices:

• CBD – Despite CBD being mostly a business-oriented area, it’s not all work and no play. The area has an abundance of cocktail party venues of different kinds. From elegant lounges to fun bars, you can find something to your liking in a matter of just a few clicks with a cocktail in your hand.
• Docklands – This is an area crowded with waterfront views that will elevate any cocktail party. It’s much cheaper than the city centre while maintaining the diversity of venue types.
• Southbank – If you want to relax on a terrace near the river, Southbank is the perfect pick for you. Classy and with a view, what else could you want?

FAQs about Cocktail Party Venues in Melbourne

How much does it cost to rent a cocktail party venue in Melbourne?

The cost of hiring a cocktail party venue in Melbourne will depend on the size of the room, the amenities included, and how many guests you expect. On average, hire fees will range between  $20 to $60 per person. A dry hire starts from as low as $300, and the minimum spend costs between $400 to $2000. (All data from Tagvenue.com.)

What type of cocktail party venues can I find in Melbourne?

If you are planning to throw a cocktail party in Melbourne, here are some options that you can consider:

Bars - You can find many bars in the city with rooftop terraces or balconies where you can host your cocktail party. These venues usually have amazing city views, allowing guests to enjoy the scenery while sipping their delicious drinks.

Function rooms - These are great and flexible spaces that you can usually find in pubs, restaurants, and hotels. They are private spaces that are designed for event hire.

Museums and galleries - These spaces will definitely add a unique touch to your event! And the price for event hire may be lower than you expect. 

Apart from these, you can also choose from an array of banquet halls, patios, gardens, club lounges, and private dining rooms. 

How early should I book a cocktail party venue in Melbourne?

The best time to book a cocktail party venue is anytime between 3 to 2 months in advance. Booking this early ensures that you will have a broad selection of venues to choose from. So once you decide on the date of your party, act fast, and start browsing for the ideal venue!

Where can I find great cocktail party venues in Melbourne?

The most popular location for cocktail parties is undoubtedly the CBD. This area is filled with plenty of great venues, from large spaces with glass walls and modern decor to more traditional options with wood accents and vintage furniture. 

You should also consider the Docklands. The area features a number of great cocktail party venues, many of which have been designed with both form and function in mind. From rooftop bars to modern eateries, there are plenty of options here for those who want to surprise guests with a different setting. 

Finally, if you're looking for something that's just a little bit out of the ordinary then consider holding your event at one of Melbourne's famous laneways, such as Meyer’s place or Hardware lane. Many of the places located there offer plenty of character which makes them perfect locations for any event where you want to bring people together over drinks and food!