The Rooks Return

A really sad about this one. My first ever visit to Melbourne in 2017 this was my favourite pub. Unfortunately, it seems that something has changed. The vibe just doesn't feel the same as it was before. We ended up only staying for 1 drink.

One of the few places in Australia that has felt like a "Pub" rather than a bar. Atmosphere is amazing, plenty of little games to play and loads of love events. The whole place is geared towards you enjoying your experience and I love it to bits.

After enjoying our time at The Rooks Return a few months ago, me and my friend decided to go back last night after having some food at El Camino Cantina across the road. We picked up a sombrero on the way out and carried it in our hands instead of wearing them. In the Rooks Return, we were asked to give them the hats and they were taken away from us even though we weren’t wearing them. My friend asked why and we were told they don’t want ‘that type of crowd’ in the bar. Feeling very unwelcome we asked what whisky’s he recommended and were told it was everyone’s first shift that night and he didn’t have one to recommend, but he was the manager. As he turned around to read the names on the bottles, we left. We won’t go back again because the attitude of not wanting paying customers in the bar due to discrimination is simply not acceptable. I left an extra star for the first good experience we had had.

Very Melbourne spot. Wednesday are amazing for jazz night. Awesome staff and good tap selection.

Cool bar. The courtyard was nice. Staff were friendly. Drinks were fairly priced

Easy going place , excellent performance creating good vibe overall....will return

Nice place where to grab a cold one! Friendly atmosphere!!! There are boardgames that you can freely grab and play with.

Good vibe, friendly staff and the cocktails are well priced. Thanks for the Manhattan

Went here for the first time a few weeks ago. Really excellent bar. Super cosy and chill atmosphere with friendly staff and great drinks. Mulled wine with brandy was the right choice! Will certainly be coming back.

Really cool little bar, would like to make it a regular place but staff not friendly. Fees like we are intruding.