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Restaurant

The Ugly Duckling | Bar | Richmond

238 Swan St, Cremorne VIC 3121, Australia

Recommended by 35 people

Updated

Find The Ugly Duckling | Bar | Richmond

238 Swan St, Cremorne VIC 3121, Australia

Directions ↗
+61 3 9429 1498
HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Wednesday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM Thursday: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM Friday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Saturday: 4:00 PM – 1:00 AM Sunday: Closed

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About The Ugly Duckling | Bar | Richmond

Swan Street hustle gives way to a moody perch built for real conversation. The volume stays mercifully low—meaning you can actually debrief your day without shouting over a soundtrack. Cocktails rotate constantly, but regulars point straight to the smoked pineapple daiquiri or the La Dolce Vita, which nails a strawberry cheesecake profile. If you lean botanical, barkeeps turn out a crisp lavender gin and tonic. It works as an aperitivo launchpad before heading out or a wind-down post-dinner, backed by a tight wine list and a spread of share plates.

  • Inventive Mixology: A regularly rotating list backed by staff picks, featuring house creations like the smoked pineapple daiquiri and a lavender gin and tonic.
  • Conversational Room: A moody setting along Swan Street that stays quiet enough for easy catch-ups and dates.
  • Snacks & Cellar: Sizable share plates and a curated wine list suited for pre-dinner drinks or late wind-downs.
RestaurantCocktailCocktail Bar

What's On at The Ugly Duckling | Bar | Richmond

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Why Guests Choose The Ugly Duckling

Why guests choose The Ugly Duckling for intimate catch-ups, crafted drinks, and evening transitions

  • A Setting Designed for Easy Conversation

    With an ambient volume that avoids overwhelming music, the space is tailored for clear, unforced conversation over drinks.

    The bar is simply stunning and not too noisy. It’s perfect for those who want a good place to chat and drink.

    Emily Q

  • Relaxed Catch-Ups with Friends

    A relaxed, sociable environment offers an unhurried setting to reconnect with friends before going out or wrapping up the night.

    Good for a chilled drink with friends before heading out or a wind down option after dinner

    Aaron Soroka

  • Distinct Signature Cocktail Profiles

    The bar crafts memorable signature creations with creative flavor balances, like drinks evoking strawberry cheesecake or infused with lavender.

    Loved the cocktails here, really fantastic . You have to try the La Dolce Vita, it really does taste just like strawberry cheesecake mmmm.

    Andrew Fox

  • Expert Mixology in a Cosy Venue

    Bartenders bring focused craft to specialty cocktails, delivering standout preparations such as the smoked pineapple daiquiri.

    Cosy cocktail bar serving up some of the best cocktails in Melbourne.

    Emily Lahey

  • Personalized Evening Transition Spot

    Knowledgeable bartenders offer tailored guidance across cocktails and wines, making it a reliable, welcoming bridge for an evening out.

    A great spot for a cocktail and nice glass of wine and a snack. Great moody vibe inside. Staff know their stuff and can recommend something for everyone.

    Darren Rogers

Before you head over

Helpful advice on timing, ordering, and making the most of your visit.

  • Pre-outing or late wind-down

    Plan your visit as an aperitif stop or a post-dinner wind-down, pairing drinks with 3 to 4 share plates if dining as a pair.

  • Ideal for relaxed conversation

    Take advantage of the calm, conversational atmosphere to catch up with friends or a partner without competing against loud background noise.

  • Cocktail exploration and staff picks

    Explore the rotating cocktail menu with guidance from knowledgeable staff, whether you are after house originals like La Dolce Vita or a lavender gin.

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