Slink along Goldie Place and shimmy down the stairs into this smooth bar for a hit of jazz and some sharp booze on the side.
While some of Melbourne's favourite music bars have closed in recent years, there are always new ones ready to pounce and fill the gap. Stepping out of a time travel machine, the Paris Cat delivers underground jazz direct from the French capital of the 1930s to the jostling laneways of noughties Melbourne.
Hitting all the right notes in terms of authenticity - exposed brick walls, moody lighting and giant jazz-themed artworks - the Paris Cat will immediately transport you into another world as you descend the stairs into the lounge, which is lit with art deco lamps.
To help get you in the mood, there are a range of martinis on offer, from the classic to the modern. If you are feeling adventurous you can try the powerful signature cocktail, which packs a swirling combo of rum, Cointreau, tequila and apricot brandy. There are also Australian wines available by the glass and French champagne by the bottle.
From Wednesdays to Sundays, the Cat hosts a variety of international and local acts to keep your jazz jive jumping; the venue also funds an annual jazz award.
Ben Maas
