We walk out of South Yarra Station thinking, “Quick cocktail before dinner. Convenient spot. Perfect.” Then we walk into the Godbee Hotel, all marble and polish, like it’s auditioning for a red carpet. Expectations rise. Mistake.
I order a $30 cocktail. What I get is a bartender, perfectly nice and clearly doing her best, reading the recipe off her phone. Not her fault. The venue set her up to fail. Then a margarita. From a tap. No garnish. $23.
So I think, fine, let’s go premium. I order a fat-washed Old Fashioned. They hand it over. I ask how they fat-washed it. Answer: “Oh, we don’t do that.” So I’ve just paid $26 for Bulleit, sugar, and the quiet realization that I’ve been conned.
Honestly, I’d have been better off staying at the station.
You cannot justify these prices when cocktails come from taps and staff aren’t trained to make the drinks they’re selling. Full credit where it’s due: the venue is beautiful. But stop cheating your clientele with poorly made, overpriced drinks. People will happily pay for quality if the experience and the product justify it. Here, it’s just daylight robbery. Pull your head out.
Low Sugar
Mark R · 2026-01-24
Very new, fresh and crisp. Stylish yet unpretentious. A gastro pub, a bar, a back terrace and a small music room called Nightbird featuring large speakers, a vinyl collection, a disco ball, a bar and a Japanese menu. The kitchen does not disappoint and the from of the house team could not be any nicer. Kingfish sashimi is fresh and chunky. Crispy Shrimp comes out in a generous serving that is big enough to share, or even as a lighter main if you don’t mind a somewhat monotonous goodness for your main. Nduja Vodka Rigatoni is straightforward and just as spicy as you could hope for, balanced off with the gentle creamy stracciatella. The drink and wine list is an inspired range of affordable to premium options. John Duval Eligo Shiraz by the glass is an absolute treat on the upscale end. A lovely new spot!
Justas Pipinis · 2026-01-11
Have been to the Godby a few times since they have opened. The service from everyone is incredible, the bar staff are very friendly and efficient. The food is amazing - perfect for sharing plates with friends. The atmosphere is really adaptable to suit the mood of the day/ night.
Have brought in a few different groups of friends and everyone loves it especially the amazing reno. 5 stars all round.
Cattie McDonnell · 2026-01-11
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Absolutely incredible from start to finish!
Godby Hotel is one of those rare places where everything just clicks — beautiful aesthetics, standout design, incredible food and truly memorable drinks.
From the moment you walk in, the atmosphere feels like Shanghai meets Berlin meets Melbourne — dramatic yet welcoming, stylish yet effortless. The interior design is stunning and unlike anywhere else in South Yarra, with striking spaces that feel both adventurous and refined. 
The cocktails are unforgettable — inventive, perfectly balanced and served with flair. Whether you’re after a bold signature drink or a refined classic, the mixology game here is top-tier and clearly a highlight. And the food? Equally impressive — modern, flavour-packed dishes that pair beautifully with the drinks and elevate the whole experience.
What others are saying around town aligns with my experience: Godby has quickly become the go-to destination for standout evenings, complete with a raw bar, a secret music-room vibe and DJs spinning all day — it’s exactly the kind of place that’s putting South Yarra on the map for both locals and visitors. 
Whether you’re coming for a relaxed dinner, a night out with friends, or just to soak in the vibe with a cocktail in hand — Godby Hotel delivers on all fronts. Highly recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Jessi Singh · 2026-01-05
The new Godby hotel incredible architecture and design fittings, a credit to the owners, simply beautiful. How lucky is Melbourne and a music room with a disco ball and vinyl records at it's entrance. A disco ball in the bathrooms with disco lights ✨️.
To Anna who showed me around what an outstanding staff member so kind, and professional and Caine at the bar also so friendly. These staff make you want to come back welcoming and with big smiles.
Thank you we appreciate you! Happy New Year!
Sarah · 2026-01-03
Truly exceptional. Great spot for catching up. Very attentive staff. South Yarra were in dire need of something like this.
Heche · 2025-12-21