Where small-town energy meets big city standards.
In Lilydale’s historic main square, Radio Social Club & Cocktail Bar has set itself the challenge to redefine what an evening out in the Yarra Valley can look like. It turns out, it is not just about the bar but also the atmosphere.
Radio Social is the kind of place where the sound system matters almost as much as the spirits. Funk, soul, and hip-hop beats play into the night while the cocktail menu showcases the bar’s identity and mood.
Designed by Studio Argil, the venue’s warm colours and fitout creates an intimate space. Featuring black walls, timber accents, and an all-round eclectic energy, Radio Social is somewhere you can perch yourself in the late afternoon and remain, without a thought, well into the night.
The bar team rotates a seasonal list of creative drinks, backed by a 170-plus back bar spirits collection. The venue also offers a selection of craft beers and a handful of local wines, for those wanting to experience distinct regional drops.
Cheese and charcuterie boards are on offer and are recommended for pairing with the local wine list – for something with a little more substance, loaded sandwiches are available to order, while those with a sweet tooth, will be in for a real treat with a slice of Radio’s old-school American pie.
Radio Social is the brainchild of Cory Mitchell, a hospitality veteran, whose journey started as a kitchenhand in the 90s. Mitchell honed his craft working within some of Melbourne’s most respected venues including Mamasita and 1806. Radio is his latest labor of love, built from the ground up as a space where locals can reconnect and visitors can plug into Lilydale’s immersive energy.
Mitchell also co-owns the Stranger Coffeehouse & Kitchen in a century-old church in Balwyn with longtime friend Andrew Smith and is prepping for the launch of Van Winkle Ice Co., a boutique ice brand, with refrigeration expert Nathan Wallace.
At its heart, Radio Social Club is built on the idea that good drinks and good music go best with good people. It’s a small-town joint with big city standards – whether you are wanting to escape Melbourne’s CBD, or just heading to the Yarra Valley for a weekend away, Radio Social is open from 4pm Thursday through Sunday.