To the German monks who started brewing beer in the Middle Ages: we wholeheartedly salute you. Without those first monastery based breweries, we would all be living in a world without our favourite golden nectar. Dark times, indeed. Luckily, those wily monks started tinkering with wild hops around 1150, and as a result we have the beer that we know today. History lesson aside, you can sample the best of brews at the European Bier Cafe. Soaring high on the east side of the CBD, this triple-level bar is conveniently located just a short walk from Parliament train station. Best of luck trying to narrow down your first pint: these guys have 40 local and international beers on offer. For non-beer drinkers (we've heard they exist) there is an impressive cocktail list available, with share-style carafes also popular. The all-weather rooftop is ready for Melbourne's inclement weather, with a roaring fire in the winter and water misters in the summer. The entertainment roster is similarly impressive, with comedy nights, trivia comps and plenty of live sport. Prost! Images: Giulia Morlando.