Close to the city but just far enough away, South Melbourne is best known for its awesome market, but you can't drink there, so how much fun is that?? Just a few steps away in what used to be the Southern Cross Hotel is Hats & Tatts. Sometimes you'll see Jason Chan co-owner of The West Winds Gin behind the bar, but mostly our mate Wizey Baleitavuki is centre stage slinging drinks in this neon lit, frat themed den of American dive bar goodness. There's retro arcade games, a billiard table and a dart board.....need we go on? The walls are covered in classic American movie posters and there's alcohol, lots and lots of it, especially whiskey and bourbon and a heap of beer.

Grab a booth or one of the tables, order a round of the famous fried chicken, burgers, Reuben croquettes and whatever you want to wash them down with and settle in for a totally relaxed and unpretentious experience. They may have a whole science lab going on behind the bar for various experimental beverage options but these guys are all about keeping it simple and no fuss. No one cares how you look, or what you're wearing, if you've got tatts, a hat and pocket full of cash you'll always be welcomed with open arms and maybe a hug from Wizey.