Welcome to Dogs Bar...

As you enter through the wrought iron gates and walk past the bowl of water to refresh the neighbourhood canines, the overwhelming sensation is noise. People come to the Dogs Bar to be noticed and the easiest way to be noticed is to be heard. Set-up by local identity, the late Donleavy Fitzpatrick, also the initial redeveloper of the George, Dogs Bar is a watering hole for the upper end of St Kilda's artistic community. Sitting outside on the terraces or by the open fires, Dogs Bar patrons are as much part of the scene as Luna Park and palm trees.

Established before St Kilda truly swung back in vogue, Dogs Bar was the first 'bar' in Melbourne and indeed was the catalyst for what is now the bar capital of the world. Dogs Bar has survived while a million other cafes and bars have flared and faded. A reliable menu and good wine keep regulars coming back and back, making it as popular for a working lunch as an after work schmooze.

It's worth spending an early evening here on a balmy summer's day just to check out everyone else checking out everyone else.

[BarOmeter - the insider's guide to Melbourne Bars]

Pete Murray - Class A (music video) filmed at Dogs Bar - take a look.....click here

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sU2ype4Ckfk

Other published opinions

The Age Good Food Guide 2006 Dog Friendly Dining "Like their faithful companions, the Dogs Bar's thirsty regulars know a good watering hole when they see one."

The Foodies' Guide 2004, Allan Campion & Michele Curtis,'Bars with Great Food-For over 10 years people have been hanging out here to be seen,to watch passers by,to drink,and for some fantastic food.The Italian-influenced menu,with pasta dishes,pizza and anitpasto,will help to soak up some of that alcohol.The bowl of fried whitebait is good,seriously good.'

Sunday Age, Eat Streets, 15/9/02

The Weekend Australian, 20.03.99, Stephen Downes