There’s something a little bit Alice in Wonderland about Madame Brussels and if I were a Mad Hatter I’d definitely have my tea party here. It’s certainly a step away from reality- a step in the right direction, of course. Cupcakes and finger sandwiches complete the tea party atmosphere. That is, if you replace the tea with huge jugs of refreshing cocktails.

A lattice-framed bar and dangling vine or two turn this inner-city bar into a garden party and it’s easy to forget you’re in the middle of the city. The fantasy is enhanced by the themed attire of the bar staff, ranging from country club chic to full-blown tennis outfits. This varies from day to day and there are even rumours of the male bartenders waltzing around from time to time in shorts, bow ties and nothing else. Madame Bussels feels exclusive, while remaining friendly. This is the garden party you’ve always dreamed of being invited to.

The inspiration behind Madame Brussels was a successful Melbourne brothel owner from the late 1800s by the name of (believe it or not) Madame Brussels. She owned no less than eight brothels around Melbourne, mostly of the high-class variety.  Madame Brussels' legacy lives on in the richly feminine décor. It’s all about aesthetics and pleasure here and the drink menu even has a blurb suggesting patrons always start with a rosé because “it’s such a pretty colour!"

The range of drinks is nothing short of luxurious, from imported beers and French Champagne to cocktails by the glass or (thank god someone’s done it) by the jug. ‘The Gin Garden’ is a refreshing mix of cucumber, elderflower, apple and lots of gin. (My mouth is literally watering as I write…)

Or if you need a pick me up after a long, hard day then a huge jug of the ‘Espresso Martini’ aught to do the trick. If you’re a no-frills kind of person then don’t come here because Madame Brussels is dripping with flamboyance. The pastel pink walls, green trimmings, astroturf and white wicker furniture are as lavish as it comes and the huge outdoor terrace is begging to be lounged upon in aristocratic splendour.