The 86 Bars & Clubs in Melbourne – GayOut Guide
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The 86

Google (117) 4.2
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84
/ 100
GayOut Score
G4.2
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Address
185 Smith St, Fitzroy VIC 3065

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About this place The 86

The 86 is a cabaret and cocktail bar on Smith Street in Fitzroy, named for the tram that rattles past its door. It leans into drag, cabaret, comedy and live jazz, and its queer-heavy programming has made it a regular fixture on Melbourne's inner-north LGBTQ+ circuit. Expect an intimate room, a serious cocktail list and a rotating line-up of performers. Google reviewers give it 4.2 across more than a hundred reviews.

Upcoming events at The 86

Features

Gay Drag shows Live music Mixed LGBTQ+ Drag scene Chill / Relaxed Local favorite Cocktail bar Cabaret / Show bar Late night (after midnight)

Insider Tips

Community Reviews

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Google Reviews

Verified by Google
4.2
★★★★☆
117 reviews

Based on 117 Google reviews.

Mark Smith
Mark Smith Aug 2026
★★☆☆☆

We paid $65 for a booth table pre-booked - but the venue was half empty all the way to the end of the last show. Don’t pre-book those tables - total rip-off.

John I
John I Aug 2026
★★☆☆☆

No the greatest cabaret show sadly but good vibe en general

Trey Rogers
Trey Rogers Aug 2026
★★★★★

The 86 on Smith Street is such an amazing place for a night out! ❤️✨ The atmosphere is always fantastic, the staff are friendly and welcoming, and there’s such a great community vibe. I especially love the entertainment and drag events — there’s always something fun happening, and Dragoke on Friday nights with Flourish Lane is definitely a highlight! 🎤💃 The energy, music, laughs and fabulous performances make it such a fun place to spend the night.A special shoutout to the team for creating such a welcoming and inclusive environment where everyone can come along, have a drink, sing their heart out and just be themselves. 🌈❤️Highly recommend checking out The 86 if you’re looking for a fun night out on Smith Street! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

墨尔本上门 看主页Outcall&Incall
墨尔本上门 看主页Outcall&Incall Jul 2026
★★★★★

A fantastic bar! The costume show was amazing, the bartenders were friendly and welcoming, and the atmosphere was lively and inclusive. The cocktails were superb, and the prices were reasonable. Definitely worth coming back!

Juju
Juju Jul 2026
★★★★★

Great for the Friday comedy show

Joe Lan
Joe Lan Jul 2026
★★★★★

We had a wonderful night out. Bar staff were friendly, drinks are reasonably priced and the performances were excellent! Will definitely visit again next time visiting Melbourne.

Edd Keith
Edd Keith Feb 2026
★★★★★

What a NIGHT. Lovely staff, epic music, felt like we were boogying the night away in 1986 - cannot recommend more!

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Last updated on 14 October 2026

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