Justin Hemmes’ Merivale Group will open its inaugural Melbourne venue—LB’s Record Bar—on 28 November 2025.

Designed by Merivale’s in-house team, the retro-inspired venue centres on its original horseshoe bar, with plush carpet, timber-terrazzo bar tops, warm colours and mirror balls. Vintage records and custom speakers wrap the room.

The venue team will be led by renowned bar duo Michael and Zara Madrusan from iconic Melbourne bars The Everleigh and Bar Margaux.

Opening onto Meyers Place, LB’s Record Bar will bring together Merivale’s and the Madrusans’ shared commitment to welcoming hospitality and great drinks. Anchored by a vinyl-only music program, every record has been hand-sourced from local independent stores, with a rotating lineup of local DJs and artists.

“We’re looking forward to bringing new energy to this iconic spot with two of the most talented people in the industry,” said Hemmes.

“We’ve built LB’s on the foundations of a great bar, with fantastic drinks and music, welcoming service, and a space you’ll (hopefully) never want to leave.”

The drinks list is agave-focused, celebrating modern classics across spirits and styles. Cocktails include the uniquely aerated Dancefloor Martini and Daiquiris – alcoholic and spirit-free – served on finely shaved ‘snow’. Ice is a central feature of the menu, from hand-cut clear blocks to the Daiquiri Snow Cone. 

“We’ve always had a love for Meyers Place so to be finally opening the doors to LB’s feels surreal,” said Michael and Zara Madrusan. “Bringing this iconic space back to life with the help of some incredible talent from The Everleigh and Bar Margaux has been incredible and we can’t wait for people to experience it.”

A small, Spanish-leaning bar snack menu by Merivale’s Melbourne-based Executive Chef, Jowett Yu, features premium seafood conservas, charcuterie and patatas fritas.