Negroni Bar & Grill
 
The look: two levels of gilt-edged opulence, from the neo-gothic facade to the chandelier-studded cellar. Things get more casual on the ground floor where there are adjoining espresso-bar and wine-bar areas.
The mood: by day there’s a caffeine buzz; by night, it’s equally chatty for after-work drinks.
The wow factor: some bars have mirror balls, this one has mirror walls, featuring an array of ornately framed examples. Need to check your make-up? Not a problem.
The crowd: as you’d expect at the business end of town, it’s a suitand-tie clientele – but not exclusively.
To eat and drink: bevvie-wise, it ticks all the boxes you’d expect for a city wine bar. As for eats, the bar offers an antipasto-driven menu. Try roasted figs in pancetta ($9.50) or the fried mozzarella ($10).
The soundtrack: spanning crooners from Jamie Cullum to George Michael.
Best for: deal-making or secret assignations
 
By Marinella Padula
 


Address: 477 Collins St, Melbourne
Phone: 9614 1319.
Open: Monday – Friday