Electric Bar — Restaurant in Melbourne

Imagine being denied entry to a venue: your only crime? Being by yourself. You need not imagine any longer, just try to enter Electric by yourself on a weeknight. I'll preface this review by saying that I have had some really enjoyable experiences at this venue in the past. Unfortunately, my perception of this venue has been tainted drastically after security guards at the door, who have been gifted with a distinct lack of personality and character, denied me entry on the basis of trying to enter the venue by myself. To quote: "No individuals, club policy". For a venue that is open seven days a week with different promoters, music, and patrons, I was disgusted to hear of such a policy. I could potentially understand being apprehensive about a big group of rowdy friends turning up together, but an individual who is there to enjoy the music and meet people? It seems very bizarre and directly at odds with the brilliant culture of Melbourne's nightlife; which is the reason I visit every year. The creative and persistent person that I am; I decided to try to circumnavigate this ludicrous draconian policy by introducing myself to some friendly people on the street who were more than happy for me to join them as they too entered the venue! Much to my dismay, rather than celebrating the ingenuity and friendliness I displayed, security instead interrogated me in regards to the length of time that I had known these newfound friends; to which a period of five minutes was deemed not substantial enough to warrant entry to the venue. Though I myself am understandably disappointed, as I stand outside the venue writing this review, listening to the aptly titled 'Jealous' by Mochakk; the real disappointment is for all the solo travelers, punters, music enthusiasts, fun seekers, dancers, shakers, movers who are being inextricably excluded. What was heralded and revered by many for it's impressive beginnings and consistent vibe from Mon-Sun ever since it's inception a few years ago, I fear has changed...and not for the better. Perhaps next time I will just say that I have friends inside, perhaps I will introduce myself to other punters earlier before attempting to enter by myself, or perhaps I will not bother at all...and that would be the real tragedy, wouldn't it? It is incongruous to hear house music pulsing from a venue, when the face and first impression of said venue is so openly and unapologetically exclusive, rather than inclusive. To be fair, probably just an off...

Easily one of the most racist places I have experienced in Australia and they have a good competition. We arrived in batches as we were a big group and were waiting in queue like the rest . When we were close to the entrance the security guy pulled my friend out and said he is not allowed to go in but the rest can. The moment we asked what’s wrong he said ‘ okay all 3 guys out but girls can go’ . My friend politely asked what is the reason for the refusal and he said I don’t have to tell you that. Later he said because my friend appears drunk and he can’t explain how he made that decision . We were well dressed , calm and the best part is the person he pulled out is the only one who wasn’t drinking at all. Only common thing we had was we are all brown. When he was called out on his behaviour, he showed no remorse and said take my badge number ( 41 ) and do what you can. This is Australia. It’s not New Zealand or America. Whatever that means . I know there is a good chance this review will be ignored my the management but I’m writing this so other people can be made aware how they are treating everyone out there. There are more people who have written about the same issue and I’m shocked that they are still in business . It’s 2024 guys, we need to stand up to these bullies. He told my friend to have some water and come back in 45minutes which we did just to inform our friends upstairs in the bar as we couldn’t connect to them through our phones. Had to pay entry as it’s forced and they click your photo without your consent before entering. We all left eventually which was a big loss for them because we were more than 15 people and the locals will ensure never to visit this place again. I’m hoping I will manage to warn as many...

Honestly didn’t think I’d be one to write a bad review but after following Saturdays nights performance of the security guards at electric i don’t think I’ll be clubbing again.

Being removed from the venue while waitting for my girlfriend while she went to the bathroom. After being inside for only an hour.

Excuse. repeatedly being told that I am to intoxicated. Although still able to walk myself out. And communicate with security that is wasn’t the case. And I was waitting for my Mrs to finish in the bathroom.

Being kicked out without my phone, wallet and jacket. And no means to communicate with my group inside. Being sat down on the bench out the front in the cold. While they made little to no attempt to assist me.

Being told to just leave, and abandon my girlfriend whom was inside and unaware.

Having my forearm grabbed, and twisted. While being dragged away by three security guards to an alley way for waitting out the front.

And then having the cops take me away, and lock me up. And having my girlfriend leave the venue alone.

I’ve never experienced a so called business go to so much extreme to isolate a patron and make no attempts to help or take into consideration the safety of myself or my girlfriends.

I really wish it was a night I...