World’s 50 Best Bars 2022: Caretaker’s Cottage Melbourne ranks 60th in competition

It’s the unassuming CBD bar that’s been named one of the world’s best— but you wouldn’t know where to find it.

Unassuming Melbourne bar Caretaker's Cottage has been named the 60th best bar in World's 50 Best list. Picture: Jason Edwards.

A tiny, unassuming CBD bar which opened six months ago has been named one of the world’s best.

Caretaker’s Cottage made its surprise debut in the World’s 50 Best Bar long list, ranking 60th in the global competition.

Co-owner Rob Libecans said he was shocked by the news, and never imagined the Little Lonsdale St bar to make the cut after Melbourne’s two years in lockdown.

“I didn’t think we’d make it, particularly because of Covid and the position Melbourne has been in with the world's longest lockdowns and being one of the last city’s to open up again,” he said.

Matthew Sterling, Rob Libecans and Ryan Noreiks of Caretaker's Cottage, which was named 60th best bar in World's 50 Best Bar. Picture: Jason Edwards

“International travel hasn’t really been a thing and these lists are dependent on free travel.”

Libecans, who runs the 25-seater space with Matthew Stirling and Ryan Noreiks, thought the character of the building swayed the vote.

“It’s quite a unique venue in a unique part of Melbourne. Before you enter, you walk past this old Gothic church and a brand new skyscraper before you’re brought into this green grassy oasis in the city – so you get to enjoy the space before you walk in,” he said.

“It feels like an English pub but is quite Aussie and has a feeling of a house party in the evening.”

Caretaker’s Cottage shakes up classic and contemporary cocktails, some of which have been inspired by techniques and flavours from world-renowned bars.

Libecans’ latest drinks creation is a ‘modern day sundae’ made with gin, blanched basil syrup and raspberry vinegar topped with whipped coconut cream.

“Our drinks are very approachable. We don’t batter you with information – it’s not an educational ride,” he said.