Transforming the iconic German restaurant The Rheingold, Dive is Geelong’s newest and most hidden bar.
Along Malop Street in the Geelong CBD, right next to beloved restaurant Frankie, is an renowned door sporting the name of the restaurant every Geelong local has experienced ‘Eriks Rheingold Cellar’.
Behind it lies Geelong’s best kept secret, Dive.
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Walk down the nondescript staircase and let your eyes adjust. Here you’re greeted with an old school barber shop in the entrance, where you’ll find a bookshelf with old school records. Enter the bookshelf and you’ll find Dive.
Once you’re in, you’re instantly met with a comfortable, moody and intimate bar that feel like an underground haunt that could be anywhere from a New York alleyway to the London Underground. As the name suggests, the bar emulates the chill vibes of a late-night dive bar, making for the perfect low-key destination to tuck in and enjoy classic and creative cocktails, spirits and beers from some of Geelong’s most skilled bartenders.
It’s clear Dive doesn’t take itself too seriously, and the decor definitely fits the bill. They’ve got timber furnishings, the original bluestone bricks, old school lights, a neon glow and a disco ball above the bar, plus a pool table and a wholesome beer garden out the back for when you’re craving some fresh air. While Dive sees the venue transformed from what long-time residents may remember, they pay tribute to its golden-age with past photos plastered to the ceiling.
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Alongside the laidback, unassuming vibes that the space offers, the friendly staff and the delicious cocktails, the venue includes constant live music with bands and DJ’s til late with plenty of room to dance and operates Thursday to Sunday from 5pm to 1am. Being underground, it doesn’t matter if you’re arriving at 5pm to start your night or finishing up way after dark, the room won’t feel too different and that’s all part of its charm.
Unlike anything Geelong currently has on offer, Dive is all about escaping the pace of the Geelong city.
Geelong is full of secrets, but this is undoubtedly one of the best kept.
Find Dive at 9/11 Malop Street, Geelong, Victoria.
