Beneath Driver Lane has a funky new sibling.
Live music: may be a rarity at Baby Driver (for now), but music is certainly at the core of the venue’s ethos. Deeply inspired by the laidback cool of ’70s jazz and deep funk, this venue is soundtracked by the natural fuzz of vinyl, the ‘clack-clack’ of ice in cocktail shakers and bold, iconic basslines.
Famous for: being the little bro of one of Melbourne’s favourite hidden bars, Beneath Driver Lane (hence the name – get it?). However where Beneath Driver Lane is focused on whiskey and blues, Baby Driver’s got the funk, as well as an extensive wine list and signature cocktails.
Infamous for: This baby is so new, it hasn’t had time to develop infamy yet. But I’ve got a hunch that given the mood lighting and flirty atmosphere, it’ll soon be overrun by Hinge dates. Get in while you can!
It’s always a treat when a hospo team we love gives us a new venture. Such is the case with Baby Driver, a new CBD haunt next to Beneath Driver Lane. Borrowing its name from the campy Edgar Wright crime movie, the space welcomes guests for a night of vibey music, friendship and general merriment.
With DJs spinning smooth, soulful tracks on the weekends and candles flickering on the tables, it’s got the same warm atmosphere as its older sibling, but with a little more playful flair.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, it’s also doing rotating kitchen takeovers – right now, Lady T is at the helm, dishing up Latin-inspired items like arepas, tacos and empanadas.
There’s something comforting about a genre-specific bar as well. No matter the night, you can always rely on the playlist, which everyone knows makes up 90% of the atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quickie before seeing live blues at Beneath Driver Lane or you’re settling in for a long one, Baby Driver’s got the chops.