11 Rainbow Alley, Melbourne, Victoria

Cabinet Bar - After 18 successful years, the current owners are looking to sell due to relocation.

Leasehold $150,000

Business Description

Tucked away down Rainbow Alley beside Melbourne Town Hall lies the discreet entrance to Cabinet Bar. This intimate laneway venue captures the feel of a softly lit Parisian nightspot and offers the perfect setting for after-work drinks, a pre-show dinner, or a relaxed Sunday session.

Ascend the stairs to discover a mid-city oasis perched above the buzz of Swanston Street. The main room combines old-world charm with French-inspired décor plush banquette seating, baroque furnishings, and warm, ambient lighting. The inviting balcony "crow's nest" overlooks Swanston Street, giving patrons the rare chance to unwind above the city's nightlife while still soaking in its energy. At the rear of the venue are a small commercial kitchen and restrooms, ensuring seamless service.

Cabinet Bar holds an On-Premises Liquor Licence until 1am and is approved for a capacity of 90 patrons. The lease has three years remaining, with the landlord open to adding extra terms for the incoming operator. Rent is $2,900 per week gross, including outgoings (landlord insurance, council rates) and the council lease fee for use of the balcony airspace above Swanston Street.

All fixtures and fittings are included in the sale, and no supplier or equipment contracts are being transferred, offering a clean handover for the new owner.

After 18 successful years, the current owners are looking to sell due to relocation. The venue is consistently profitable, with strong trade from office workers and excellent turnover during major city events, particularly the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. Full financials are available. Cabinet Bar represents an exceptional opportunity for an experienced hospitality professional seeking to acquire an established, high-performing CBD venue with a loyal clientele, prime location, and timeless appeal. The vendors are looking for offers in the regions of $150,000 for this exclusively listed charming CBD venue.

Business Summary

Other Features / Notes

A:LEASEHOLD, B:HOTEL/BAR, C:VIC - Melbourne

Marketing Agent

Lloyd Nunn

CRE Brokers

Key Investment Insights

AI generated. Confirm details with the seller.

1. Established Melbourne CBD bar operating successfully for 18 years, with sale prompted by owner relocation.
2. Prime Rainbow Alley position beside Melbourne Town Hall, above Swanston Street and close to city nightlife.
3. Distinctive French inspired interiors, intimate atmosphere, plush banquette seating, baroque furnishings and ambient lighting.
4. Balcony crow’s nest overlooks Swanston Street and includes council approved airspace usage within the rent.
5. On Premises Liquor Licence operates until 1am, with approved capacity for 90 patrons.
6. Small commercial kitchen, restrooms and all fixtures and fittings are included for a straightforward transition.
7. Consistent profitability supported by office worker trade and strong turnover during major city events.
8. Loyal clientele and established trading history provide a foundation for continued operation by an experienced hospitality operator.
9. Three years remain on the lease, with the landlord open to negotiating additional terms.
10. No supplier or equipment contracts transfer, allowing the incoming operator a clean handover and supplier selection.