Westend Market Hotel

Best Bars in Sunshine To Go On A Date

Discovering the best bars in Sunshine, VIC, for a date night is an adventure filled with charm and excitement. Start at Cafe Mambo Bar and Lounge, known for its vibrant murals painted by local artists—perfect for sparking creative conversations. Then, head to The Sunshine Social, where the open-air beer garden with festoon lighting creates a relaxed, romantic vibe. If you’re into cocktails, Charlie’s Bar & Dining offers a unique ‘signature sunset cocktail,’ ideal for a picturesque date evening. 

For a romantic stroll, visit Buckingham Reserve, renowned for its serene duck pond, or enjoy star-gazing at Kororoit Creek with its tranquil walking paths. Ensuring a memorable and enchanting experience as you explore Sunshine’s vibrant nightlife and romantic spots together.

Written by Darcy Todd, speed dating expert in Australia

The Best Bars in Sunshine, VIC

Cafe Mambo Bar and Lounge

Cafe Mambo Bar and Lounge

Taking your date to Cafe Mambo Bar and Lounge in Sunshine, is perfect for a cozy, intimate evening. Located on Hampshire Road, it’s easy to find, just a stone’s throw from the Sunshine Plaza. If you’re using public transport, Sunshine Station is your best bet, with frequent trains on the Sunbury line and bus routes 216 and 220 stopping nearby.

The moment you step into Cafe Mambo, the mood is set by its eclectic décor—a mix of vibrant murals and retro furnishings that create a relaxed yet chic vibe. For a first date, the lounge area with its plush seating and soft lighting is ideal for close conversation. To bring up interesting conversation, mention how the bar has a mural painted by a local artist and was once a vintage shop before becoming this lively spot.

When it’s time to get drinks together, Cafe Mambo is known for their Espresso Martini and Tropical Mojito’s. Pair your drinks with the Mambo Nachos or the Seafood Platter; they’re great for sharing and add a fun, interactive element to your evening. And try to plan your outing for the weekends, where you can enjoy live acoustic sessions, adding a soothing backdrop to your date. For a sweet finish, walk to Gloria Jean’s Coffee nearby for dessert. Café Mambo’s eclectic vibe and delicious offerings make it a superb choice for a memorable date night.

Imagine stepping into the Sunshine City Club on Hampshire Road for your next date night. This bar’s contemporary decor strikes the perfect balance between chic and cozy, ideal for easing those first-date nerves. The lighting is soft, with a warm ambiance that feels instantly welcoming. You’ll find a mix of stylish booths and high-top tables, but I recommend snagging a booth for a more intimate vibe. The interior blends modern industrial touches with plush seating, making it a great conversation starter. 

For drinks, their signature cocktails are a must-try; the “Sunshine Spritz” is light and refreshing, while the “City Negroni” packs a sophisticated punch. If your date is feeling hungry, order the tapas to share; the spicy chorizo and honey-drizzled halloumi are perfect for a date. The bar’s playlist is a smooth blend of jazz and indie hits, creating a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a spot where a mix of 20s and 30s crowd feels right at home. As the night winds down, consider a romantic walk to the Sunshine Plaza Park nearby, just a few minutes away. It’s a lovely spot for a post-date chat or even a first kiss. 

Red Carpet Cafe and Lounge

Red Carpet Cafe and Lounge

Taking a date to Red Carpet Cafe and Lounge in Sunshine, is a quick stroll from Sunshine train station or accessible by bus routes 410 or 220. As you approach, the modern exterior hints at a sophisticated night ahead. Entering, you’re enveloped in a warm, relaxed atmosphere where red tones and plush seating set a romantic tone. This bar is perfect for a first date; its intimate booths offer a cozy spot to sit close and chat, while the bar area encourages a relaxed vibe if you prefer to sit casually.

Arriving early for happy hour from 5 PM to 7 PM is a savvy move, ensuring you snag a prime seat and enjoy their signature cocktails like the Red Carpet Martini or the Sunshine Sangria. The venue’s dim lighting and elegant décor enhance the romance, making it ideal for deeper conversations or light-hearted banter. For dinner, the truffle fries and the Moroccan lamb skewers are sure to impress with their rich flavors. Share a dessert like their chocolate fondant to end on a sweet note. Afterward, a leisurely walk to the nearby Sunshine Marketplace is perfect for prolonging your romantic evening.

Heading to Derrimut Hotel in Sunshine, for a date is perfect for your memorable evening. Located on Station Place, it’s easy to find, just look for the impressive brick building near Sunshine Marketplace. The vibe inside Derrimut Hotel is relaxed yet stylish, with dark wood furnishings and warm lighting that instantly make you feel at ease. You’ll notice the mix of vintage and contemporary décor, giving the place a timeless charm perfect for a cozy date. 

Derrimut Hotel is known for its rich history, having been a community cornerstone since the 1800s is sure to impress your date. At the bar enjoy their signature drinks like their espresso martini or the refreshing Sunshine Spritz. When it comes to food, their crispy pork belly and the chicken parmigiana are standout dishes, delicious and perfect for sharing. The staff are friendly and add a welcoming touch, ensuring you and your date feel well taken care of. The background music is typically a mix of classic hits and modern tunes, and for a romantic end to the evening, stroll to the nearby Kororoit Creek Trail. It’s just a short walk away and provides a lovely setting for a quiet chat or a first kiss under the stars. 

Enjoying your next date night at the Westend Market Hotel in Sunshine, is sure to please. Upon arrival, the Westend Market Hotel’s warm, rustic vibe hits you with exposed brick, wooden beams, and cozy booths that invite intimate conversation. The mood is laid-back yet stylish, ideal for connecting with your loved one. Dress smart casual, something like jeans and a nice shirt or dress will fit right in. From there you can enjoy the hotel’s history dating back to the mid-20th century, and revamped in recent years blending its vintage charm with modern comforts.

Inside, head to the lounge area or grab a booth for more privacy. Their signature Westend Mojito and Spicy Margarita are must-tries, showing off the bar’s mixology skills and are fun to chat about. To impress, order the Seafood Platter or Steak Sandwich, both are delicious and fun to share. Post-dinner, suggest taking your date for a stroll to Kororoit Creek, a nearby spot for a quiet moment or even a first kiss. 

Grind Coffee Bar sets a relaxed, intimate mood perfect for a date, thanks to rustic decor, exposed brick walls, warm lighting, and vintage furnishings. Start the evening with a Grind Espresso Martini or a Spiced Pumpkin Latte, both signature drinks that showcase their exceptional coffee craft.

Impress your date by pointing out the bar’s historical roots—it was originally a warehouse in the early 1900s, now transformed into a trendy hotspot. Choose a booth for close, comfortable conversation, or sit by the window for a more laid-back vibe with a view. Sharing a delicious flatbread or the crispy calamari, two of their standout dishes, can be a great way to bond. If you’re feeling the sparks, a nearby romantic spot like the Sunshine Marketplace Cinemas to extend your romantic evening.

If you’re planning a date at Kealba Hotel in Sunshine, VIC, you’re in for a memorable night. Situated on the corner of Sunshine Avenue and Majorca Crescent, this venue is conveniently accessible by the 421 bus from Sunshine Station. Arrive early, and meet your date at the grand entrance; it sets a charming tone from the get-go. As you walk in, you’ll notice the warm, modern décor, with a blend of dark woods and ambient lighting—perfect for fostering an intimate atmosphere. Dress smart casual; it strikes the right balance for the laid-back yet polished vibe of the hotel. 

With a giant indoor playground, it’s the perfect place to take your date if they’re a single parent. Once their kid is happy, start with their signature cocktails like the “Kealba Kiss” or a classic Old Fashioned. Ordering a share a plate of their renowned Chicken Parmigiana or the succulent Beef Ribs. For a seamless transition from drinks to deeper connection, their live acoustic sessions provide the ideal backdrop for getting to know each other better. If things go well, consider a post-date stroll through nearby Buckingham Reserve—a tranquil spot to extend the evening. 

Locations

Brunswick

Richmond

Southbank

Collingwood

Docklands

Fitzroy

St Kilda

Frankston

Collingwood

Locations

Port Melbourne

South Melbourne

Brighton

Coburg

Thornbury

Sunshine

Yarra Valley

Ringwood

Southbank

 

Locations

Abbstofrot

South Yarra

Moonee Ponds 

Hawthorne

Essendon

Geelong

Ballarat

Sunshine

Melbourne

Locations

Carlton

Kew

Box Hill

Williamstown

Essendon

Werribee

Footscray

Windsor