The labyrinthine laneways of Melbourne’s CBD are legendary. Apart from specialist boutiques and very good coffee, they’re home to extraordinary bars, arguably the hippest of which is Hells Kitchen in Centre Place. With its own in-house infused vodka varieties, good-value wine and beer and regular performances from local and visiting musicians, Hells is a bar for all creatures great and small, especially the well-dressed kind. For a tougher adventure, try Sister Bella, where mulled wine and bar nibbles are hidden down Sniders Lane, off Drewery Lane, off Little Lonsdale, off Swantson.

Hells Kitchen: 20A Centre Place, Melbourne, 61 3 9654 5755.

Sister Bella: Sniders Lane, Melbourne