Wallpaper, rooftop bar, good beats and friendly bartenders are all you need for a casual night out. The decoration did not particularly match the music but the drinks flow and the music gives you a chance to relive the old days. The Red Humming Bird is easy to get into, spacious and provides a good space to hang out at after work on a bar crawl. It is not the best rooftop/bar but I must say I enjoyed the visit and the rest of the group did too.
Jean B.
Place rating: 2 Melbourne, Australia
Beautiful décor, lovely soft seats and a whole lot of potential. This place could be magnificent. But it just isn’t. It does seem to be undergoing a quite serious identity crisis. Smooth, sophisticated cocktail bar OR90s style old people dancing disco place. Someone has put a lot of time and money into this venue. The rooftop area and the main bar area seemingly make sense. It should work smoothly. It just doesn’t. Our first issue was the bar staff had no idea of our booking. It took a while to find our large group an area to sit in. A few times the bar staff forgot to make our cocktails. The highlight of the evening was watching the bar staff try be all cool and flippy the bottle tricks. Only to either drop them, smash the glass or in one unfortunate event spill an entire jug of cocktail over a few guests waiting at the bar. For a cocktail bar the music was ridiculously loud. More so the 90s style old people dancing disco place. The cocktails when they finally arrived where delicious and certainly packed a punch.
Ellie C.
Place rating: 4 Melbourne, Australia
Funny little spot, but it has a really nice rooftop bar that doesn’t get quite as crazy crowded as some of the other places around the city. Head up there for one drink, and find yourself having quite the jolly old time one you get started on the G&Ts. Hendricks, of course. Great bar, neat for events, and they do take reservations. Fun times all round!
Glen G.
Place rating: 4 Palo Alto, CA
The Red Humming Bird is a cozy two-level bar in the CBD. The upper level is open-air and is a great place to enjoy a drink on a warm evening, while the lower level is enclosed. Bars are located on both levels, making it reasonably easy to get a drink. The proprietors have done a good job with the décor; both levels feel cozy and inviting.
Nadine B.
Place rating: 3 Melbourne, Australia
I was invited here for work drinks and it was a pleasant spot. We enjoyed the fresh air above ground and a bit of a view. There was no real ‘vibe’, but for an hour or two it was nice enough. The drinks were poured generously and the bar staff were really friendly. We may have stayed longer had there been more food options — don’t go expecting nibbles.
Lexi R.
Place rating: 2 Collingwood, Australia
Overpriced and overrun by corporates, especially after work hours. Lots of other places I’d rather vote with my dollar! However…If you are just after one nice drink and a balcony view then you might find its perfect for you.
Ruki D.
Place rating: 3 Brunswick East, Australia
A cool spot, especially if you can perch yourself on the balcony… if not the décor downstairs should keep you entertained for some time.
Adrian F.
Place rating: 1 Australia
From the same people that brought you the tired soulless pile that is the Emerald Peacock, we have the Red Hummingbird(geddit?). Once again this bar is style-by-the-metre — a mishmash of birdcages, books, couches etc with no real coherent theme. Overpriced drinks, a dull open air area for the smokers — all designed to fool people into thinking they’re having a sophisticated experience. Avoid.
Christopher B.
Place rating: 4 Vancouver, Canada
Great cozy venue with funky music and good drinks. They close at 1 so its a great get the night started venue. Been during the week and its perfect for getting a little alone time with someone next to the fireplace or have a few drinks with friends on the rooftop. Cocktail suggestion: The John Wayne, a delicious bourbon cocktail with citrous hints and garnished with a orange peel and burnt cloves. Friday is definitely the night to make it out here.
Minh L.
Place rating: 3 London, United Kingdom
With a little red birdcage outside to help you find the bar on a busy Russell Street, the Red Humming Bird is quaint place furnished with multi-coloured and multi-patterned cushioned benches. With little lanterns that line the walls and humming bird wallpaper, it definitely has an eclectic style that is quirky and cosy. Upstairs, you’ll find a rooftop bar wedged between two tall buildings. The rooftop and furishings are made entirely of wood that creates a very simple design. My favourite are the seats that hang from the ceiling. Although, I get nervous they might break. I went here with a group of workmates who are really into the bar scene and cocktails. I remember the cocktails were good, but I was more impressed by the actual place. There is definitely a wow factor when you first step in. With over 30 cocktails, the Asian inspired menu does offer something for everyone. For those who can’t be bothered to look through the list, try their signature cocktail: the Red Hummingbird, Bacardi Gold blended with strawberries, vanilla and guava.
Julia L.
Place rating: 3 Melbourne, Australia
I’ve been here a few times and never seem to last that long without getting eager to move on. While its quaint and petit dwellings offer a welcoming and inviting atmosphere, when the crowds start to roll in it can get a little bit too intimate, especially if the rooftop bar hasn’t been opened. All in all its a great place to start the night off and appreciate a few quite cocktails. Just keep in mind the stairs can certainly prove to be a bit of an effort on the way down.
Miriam S.
Place rating: 3 Melbourne, Australia
Keep and eye out for the red birdcage hanging above the tiny doorframe, for this is a bar you don’t want to miss. It may be small and dimly lit but the atmosphere is grand and buzzing. Deep, earthy colours, sophisticated touches and decadent trinkets make this a very attractive space to sip the night away. Of course the choice of drink here would be one of their fabulously mixed cocktails, however if you prefer to opt for a beer or wine, well, that won’t ruffle any feathers. At the back you’ll find a flight of stairs leading to the rooftop area. If you thought it was tight downstairs, well then you’re in for a surprise. On a busy night it can get a little difficult to find room to spread your wings. With so many rooftop bars around these days, Red Humming Bird is seen as a one of the pioneers. Lanterns, cushions and swinging chairs make the night sky just that little bit more enjoyable.