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best place to meet friends melbourne cbd

Catch Up in the City With the Best Place to Meet Friends in Melbourne CBD

Sometimes you plan it days in advance. Sometimes it’s a spontaneous “you around?” message.

Either way, meeting up in the CBD just makes sense.

It’s central. It’s easy for everyone to get to. Whether you’re finishing work, shopping on Bourke Street, or just looking for a reason to get out, the city is the go-to. 

But here’s the thing.

Location alone isn’t enough.

You need somewhere that’s actually nice to be. With good drinks. Good vibes. Room to breathe. Room to talk.

And that’s where Transport Hotel steps in.

Why Transport Hotel Ticks Every Box

This place is right on Federation Square, opposite Flinders Street Station.

You seriously can’t get more central than that. But it’s not just a bar, it’s three levels of whatever kind of catch-up you’re craving.

From laid-back rooftop chats to lively pub laughs or long lunches that stretch into dinner, you’ve got options.

Meet your best mate. Gather the whole crew. Host a reunion. Celebrate something. Or nothing.

It’s all in one spot. And it just works.

Three Levels. Endless Ways to Catch Up.

Transit Rooftop Bar: Elevated Evenings

Need a catch-up with a view? Head up to Transit Bar.

You’ll get a full panorama of Melbourne, city lights, Yarra shimmer, trams buzzing below.
It’s open-air. It’s relaxed. It’s got that golden-hour glow that makes every drink feel better.

The cocktails? Smooth. Seasonal. Well made.

There’s usually live music too. Acoustic sets. Jazz. Soul. Enough to add energy, never too much to drown out a conversation.

Perfect for after-work drinks, first catch-ups, or reconnecting with that friend you haven’t seen in ages.

Taxi Kitchen: Long Lunches. Even Longer Chats.

Some catch-ups deserve more than bar snacks.

That’s when you book a table at Taxi Kitchen. It’s upstairs, calm, bright, and built for deeper conversations.

The food? Creative, modern, and designed to be shared. Think long lunches, flowing wine, and stories that turn into laughs.

The setting’s stylish but never intimidating. You’re not shouting to be heard. You’re catching up properly.

Brunch dates. Birthdays. Friends who’ve been “meaning to catch up forever.” This is the space for it.

Transport Public Bar: The Casual Go-To

Sometimes you just want it easy. That’s where the ground-floor bar comes in.

Walk in. Order a drink. Grab a table. Simple.

There’s a buzz here, especially late afternoons and weekends. It’s got that classic pub feel. It’s upbeat, relaxed, and always good for a laugh.

Watching the footy with mates? Meet here.

Spontaneous Saturday session? This is the spot.

Quick knock-off drinks with work friends? Done.

Alfresco tables line the square, perfect for people-watching or making last-minute plans feel well thought out.

Where to Find Us. When to Drop By.

You’ll find Transport Hotel at Federation Square, literally across the road from Flinders Street Station.

From anywhere in Melbourne, it’s easy. Train, tram, bike, or a quick stroll, it’s connected.

Want a few local tips?

  • Lunch with a view? Go to Taxi Kitchen.

  • Golden hour catch-up? Transit rooftop.

  • Sunday beers with the crew? Public Bar downstairs.

  • Big group? Any level, there’s space for everyone.

Bring a mate or a dozen. 

This Is Your New Go-To Catch-Up Spot in Melbourne

The best catch-ups don’t happen in loud clubs or cramped cafés.

They happen somewhere central. Somewhere flexible. Somewhere that fits your vibe without needing to explain it.

That’s Transport Hotel.

No matter what kind of catch-up you’ve got in mind, chill, chatty, or a bit celebratory, this place has a level for that.

Pick a time. Grab your crew. Meet us at Transport.