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BARS & NIGHTLIFE · OLDEST & FIRSTS

Often called Australia’s first small bar.

Jimmy Watson’s · Lygon Street, Carlton

1935operating at this venue

About this place

The city dates Jimmy Watson’s to 1935 and notes its reputation as Australia’s first small bar.

The record

Comparison: Small bars in Australia, as described in the city listing.

Often referred to is not definitive proof. Small bar is not a consistent historical licensing category.

Visiting

Check the linked visitor information for current access, opening and any booking requirements.

Access arrangements should be checked with the operator before travelling. Occasion tags are editorial suggestions. They do not certify accessibility or opening hours.

A dateAfter darkWith friends

Sources

Sources checked 23 September 2026. A publisher’s claim is attributed; it is not a complete independent survey.