Sister Bella

The look: garage-sale chic – once you find its ever-so-discreet back alley entrance, inside is a seemingly haphazard arrangement of oversized lace lampshades, wrought iron gates, an old gramophone and walls laden with Rotary art show oil paintings.
The crowd: inner-city hipsters including a few Kings of Leon look-a-likes and dedicated 1980s revivalists. But, thankfully the feel is friendly.
To drink: a straight-to-the-point selection of beers and wines. Try the sangria, $14 gets you a decent sized carafe that’s far too easy to get through.
To eat: again, a simple selection of pides ($5.50) and pastas like spaghetti Bolognese ($9.50). Bar soundtrack: old blues, soul and swing with the occasional country track. Drowning one’s sorrows was never so enjoyable.
Best for: Amiable staff and its suburban bar vibe make Sister Bella great for a relaxed post-work bevvie with less bustle than at sister venue St Jerome’s.

By Marinella Padula

Address: Sniders Lane, Melbourne
Open: Monday – Saturday