The Peel

Great happy hour prices. Friendly helpful staff. Plenty of room to find your spot. Inclusive and fun. Friday night pop goes off. Love the extra large disco ball.

Great venue! However, it’s always extremely hot inside. I don’t think they have AC, or if they do, it’s never turned on. I’d honestly prefer paying an entry fee if it meant they would invest in improving the ventilation or cooling. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like investing in the venue is a priority for them. Usually the crowd is good, but some weekends the number of women and straight couples becomes a bit ridiculous.

*PLEASE READ IF YOU’RE PLANNING ON VISITING* Last night, on the final night of the Midsumma Festival ‘26, after the Pride Street Party, my friends and I waited in line for over an hour and a half, only to be told at the door that no women were allowed - “only gay regular men,” according to the security guards. I’ve never experienced this at a gay venue before, especially on such a significant night dedicated to celebrating LGBTQ pride. It’s incredibly disgraceful to treat people this way after they’ve waited patiently in line and intended to support the venue financially- all because the owner wants to exclude queer people that aren’t cis gay men. If you’re wanting to have a fun night out with friends, I suggest a place that isn’t gonna promote exclusion and gender discrimination.

The first bar / club I ever went to. What an amazing experience, a life long memory. Thanks to Bruce for getting us in (back in the day). Awesome music and and awesome memories! Thank you!

Fun gay bar in Melbourne, I’m a regular here and it’s always a good vibe. Good smoking area and music, people are fairly friendly too. I did lose my belongings here a few weeks ago however, and when I’d emailed in to ask about them I received no response from them which was a bit upsetting.