The best live music venues in Melbourne's eastern suburbs celebrating local talent

Whether you love hitting up the mosh pit or prefer hanging back and bobbing your head to the rhythm, there is something for every type of music lover across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs. From gems tucked away in the Hills to a pool bar in Lilydale, here are some of the best live music venues across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

Have we left out one of your favourite spots? Let us know and we’ll add it to the list!

Sooki Lounge

Sooki Lounge can be compared to a labyrinth. You can start in the Main Bar area to enjoy a band and then head downstairs to the Jungle Bar to see another gig. Or head outside to the beer garden to relax or enjoy an open mic night.

A lot of Hills and eastern suburbs bands get their start at Sooki Lounge. There is often a wide range of artists gracing the stage, from local acts to Australian legends.

Located at 1648 Burwood Highway in Belgrave.

For more information on upcoming events, visit the Sooki Lounge website.

York on Lilydale

York on Lilydale is sort of like a classic bistro with a little bit extra. You can enjoy a classic bistro dinner before enjoying a gig. Or you can hit up the York Collective, a separate intimate bar setting, which often has acoustic gigs.

And don’t forget the iconic mini-festival Hotter than Hell, which showcases classic Australian bands and outfits, often from the hard rock and classic rock scenes.

Located at 138 York Road in Mount Evelyn.

For more information on upcoming events, visit the York on Lilydale website.

The Railyard

The thing you’ll notice as soon you walk through the doors of this “saloon” is the decor reminiscent of a log cabin in America’s pacific northwest, complete with deer horns. This venue is a coffee shop by day transformed into an intimate live music venue by night.

Located at 3/1545 Burwood Highway in Tecoma.

For more information on upcoming gigs, visit The Railyard’s Facebook page.

Rack-em-up Pool Hall and Bar

You wouldn’t think a pool hall and live music would go hand in hand. But Rack-em-up has been proving this wrong for a number of years, hosting local bands and karaoke. With a fire blaring in the middle of the hall throughout the colder months and a number of tables available, grab a game in between bands or during the quieter songs.

Located at 2/26 John Street in Lilydale.

For more information on upcoming gigs, visit the Rack-em-up Pool Hall and Bar website.

The Concert Lounge

Again, you wouldn’t think a lawn bowls club would be the best location for a live music venue - but The Concert Lounge at the Croydon Bowling Club is bucking the trend. From tribute bands to local acts, check out this cosy venue complete with a meal.

Located at 212 Mt Dandenong Road in Croydon.

For more information about upcoming gigs, visit The Concert Lounge’s website.

Rochford Wines

Live music amplified over fields of green and vines ready for the picking? You can’t go wrong. Iconic bands have played at Rochford Wines over the years, with the venue quickly becoming one of Victoria’s premiere outdoor music venues, rivalling others like Hanging Rock.

Located at 878-880 Maroondah Highway in Coldstream.

For more information about upcoming gigs, visit Rochford Wines’ website.