Manchuria

7-9 Waratah Place, Melbourne

In Melbourne’s early days, Chinatown housed several opium dens until they were eventually deemed illegal in 1905. While they’re long gone, their furnishings live on in Manchuria.

This Chinatown cocktail bar has no signage and is near-impossible to stumble upon.

Wander down Waratah Place until you find a dark staircase – about halfway down. Wander up, and on your left, there’s a large wooden door; this is the entrance to Manchuria.

Inside you’ll find a collection of booths, pillows and plenty of nooks. Their potent ‘Zombie’ cocktail is well known for being the catalyst to a big night.