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CBD & Inner › Melbourne › State of Grace
State of GraceC-?Proceed Cautiously
27 King St, Melbourne VIC 3000, Australia
· Cocktail bar, Bar, Function room facility
· 4.6/5 Google (3093 reviews)
Reservations · Outdoor seating
Stylish multi-level cocktail spot with a hidden bar and rooftop; great drinks and vibe, solid but uneven food, premium prices, and some service inconsistency plus recurring rodent complaints.
Why it gets a C-? for overall quality
⚠️ Review concerns: This assessment reflects moderate uncertainty due to questionable review patterns. See details in Authenticity Assessment. State of Grace delivers exceptional atmosphere and cocktails — the hidden speakeasy and rooftop views create genuine destination appeal, and bartenders demonstrate strong drink knowledge. However, recurring rodent sightings across multiple years and inconsistent food and service quality significantly limit the experience. This grade reflects significant uncertainty due to review authenticity concerns that make it difficult to fully trust reported quality metrics; proceed with awareness of documented safety issues.
Restaurant Summary
State of Grace spreads across a lively CBD building with a rooftop and a hidden speakeasy that guests enter through a bookshelf, creating a playful, theatrical vibe. Reviewers rave about personable bartenders and the chandeliered room, noting, "the rooftop views made sunset drinks feel special." However, there are some review authenticity concerns - some review patterns are consistent with solicited or influenced feedback. The kitchen leans modern Australian with elevated pub comforts and a steak-led grill, while the bar program is the true headliner. Expect excellent cocktails and popular snacks like fries and squid, but mains can vary, from satisfying roasts to inconsistent steaks. Prices track with the setting and location; value feels best when you treat it as a cocktail-first venue with grazing plates. Families can make it work earlier in the evening: burgers, fries, and simple pastas are approachable, and brunch events include pizza and chips. That said, it is not a kid-centric spot and gets loud later; save the speakeasy and late-night rooftop for adults.
At a Glance
- Hidden speakeasy and rooftop deliver memorable atmosphere
- Standout cocktails with friendly, knowledgeable bartenders
- Food and service consistency vary by night and level
- Recurring rodent sightings reported over multiple years
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- hidden_speakeasy_entrance
- multi_level_space_with_rooftop
- staff_personalization
What People Love
- The thrill of the hidden entrance
- Skyline moments on the rooftop
- Bartenders who tailor drinks to taste
- Playful retro decor and big chandelier
- Group-friendly vibes and music
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (A$40+ mains; A$49-68 steaks) which may surprise casual diners
- Service can be slow or brusque at peak times; occasional billing or order mix-ups reported
- Food quality varies; some steaks dry and snacks not always crispy
- Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (staff name repetition, marketing-style language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
- Multiple independent mouse sightings across years raise hygiene concerns
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostA$62-88 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- If steak, pair with Duck Fat Potatoes (A$17) and House Salad (A$16) for a balanced plate
- For vegetarians: Stracciatella & Heirloom Tomatoes (A$23) plus Broccolini (A$17)
- Dessert share: Key Lime Pie (A$17) with crème fraîche ice cream
Perfect For
- Pre-concert drinks and snacks
- Birthday gatherings or date nights
- Out-of-towners seeking a Melbourne rooftop
- Cocktail enthusiasts exploring speakeasies
Location Insights
Area: Bustling CBD edge near King St nightlife; popular for after-work drinks and weekend celebrations.
Safety: Well-trafficked urban core; typical city-center safety with late-night crowds.
Nearby: Close to Southbank, Marvel Stadium events, offices, hotels; strong foot traffic and rooftop appeal.
Melbourne CBDMelbourne CBD offers a dynamic dining environment with a mix of casual eateries, upscale restaurants, and trendy bars. The area is lively throughout the day and night, attracting a diverse crowd seeking everything from quick lunches to sophisticated dinners and nightlife experiences.
King StreetKing Street is known for its concentration of bars, clubs, and late-night venues, making it a popular destination for after-work drinks and weekend socializing. It blends historic architecture with modern hospitality venues, creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:00
Wednesday12:00–22:00
Thursday12:00–23:00
Friday12:00–01:00
Saturday12:00–01:00
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Outdoor seating
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