Overview
If you've had a big night out in Melbourne over the last five years, there's a good chance it was at a Good Company Bar Group (GCBG) venue. Launched in 2020, the group is now behind a plethora of high-energy bars, clubs and eateries, like Electric Bar, Rossi, The Emerson, Circus Bar and Holy Grail. Now, with their fifth anniversary just around the corner, GCBG is celebrating with a few landmark announcements.
Growing its portfolio to 11 venues over the next six months, perhaps the most significant development is the revival of The Lounge on Swanston Street. Closed over a decade ago after almost 30 years of late-night debauchery inside and on the balcony, GCBG will break new ground on the relaunched venue soon, with a new home and complete renovation on the agenda. Planned for a spring launch, expect non-stop fun happening seven nights a week.
Looking to Richmond, the group has also partnered with local hospo gurus Andy Ryan and Dave Abela on two exciting Swan Street venues. Guided by local drinks experts Jon Minihan, Matt Ambler and Laurent Rospars, The Ugly Duckling will spread its wings with a rejuvenated cocktail and wine list alongside an Italian-inspired bar menu. Meanwhile, the venue's fit-out has received a spruce up by renowned interior design studio, Brahman Perera.
Just next door, the former Untitled site welcomes a brand-new restaurant concept. Details are still forthcoming, but a new name, chef and menu are locked and loaded. "What started as a small-bar vision has grown into a collection of restaurants, nightclubs, late-night bars, and incredible function spaces. Melbourne's nightlife scene is in our DNA, and this expansion is just the beginning," says Nick Young, Co-Founder and Director of Good Company Bar Group.
An announcement this big – not to mention a birthday to celebrate – requires a party like no other. On Friday, May 2, GCBG will mark its fifth anniversary with a city-wide celebration, with eight of its venues hosting exclusive activations and entertainment. To help get you in the mood, guests enjoy 50% off drinks until midnight at most venues, with each location featuring special promotions and music events bound to set the city alight.
Get down to Holy Grail for a Gentlemen's Lair pop-up featuring haircuts and beard trims, as well as tarot readings and cocktail-making competitions. La La Land Windsor has flash tattoos and a Red Bull Truck DJ set, while the CBD alternative brings a free photo booth, live jazz and neo-soul tunes. At Rossi on Greville Street, feast on 50 free pizzas, then head to Circus to catch UK dancefloor duo In Parallel. With GCBG offering free tuk-tuks for transport, getting amongst the action is made easy.
Good Company Bar Group's 5th anniversary celebration is happening on Friday, May 2, at various venues across Melbourne. Head to the website for more information.