Pause Bar
268 Carlisle Street, Balaclava VIC 3183, Australia
Pause Bar is a little Carlisle St oasis in the Balaclava desert. Self-described as 'cavernous', it offers a space that is ripe for a party that booms. Everything about this venue shouts 'good time'. Its walls are painted teal and khaki stripes. It features 'banoffi pie' on its bar menu. It's Moroccan inspired. Fun. Funky.The beer and wine list is rotating and features a range of local boutique brands, as well as all the favourites. It's very much a classic affair with the cocktails as well – the Wrong Island Ice Tea is the bar's pride and glory. As mentioned, the bar menu is particularly outstanding. If you need something to line your stomach after that accidental third martini, how does marinated feta sound? Haloumi pockets anyone? A lamb and fig curry should do the trick, right?The interiors are novel - a wonderful mix of textures and colours that will have you humming 'Arabian Nights' under your breath. The venue can comfortably accommodate parties of up to 100.Nestled underneath Balaclava train station, Pause Bar is as accessible as it is exciting (and delicious).
Pause Bar Function Rooms

Full Party Venue
The venue is a blue, striped and rather exotic walls, up to 200 friends and/or family are able to very comfortably spend an evening eating, drinking and laughing. "Comfortably" is probably selling it short, to be honest. A versatile yet str...

Front Bar
The front section is also where one finds the bar - in all of its colourful, strikingly lit glory. The striped walls imbue goings-on with the air of something rather exotic, without leaving Carlisle Street. Up to 60 guests are able to comfo...

Moroccan-Inspired Back Section
The Moroccan inspired back section of the bar opens up into a versatile yet striking space. Lounges and tables litter the area, lending the back section to cocktail functions as well as sit-down affairs, and casual drinks with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have more questions. How do I get in contact?
There are a number of ways you can get in contact:
1) Call the VenueNow team on 1300 647 488 during business hours AEST
2) Contact the VenueNow team via our online chat in the bottom right of the screen
3) Submit an enquiry via the form on the page
The VenueNow team usually reply within a few hours during Australian business.
What steps are involved in booking an event at Pause Bar?
There are a few steps involved in booking an event at Pause Bar and the VenueNow team are here to do the heavy lifting for you.
Firstly, contact the VenueNow team by submitting an enquiry or speaking to one of our team members online or over the phone. We'll need to collect a few details from you, such as your:
- Event type
- Number of people attending
- Preferred event date & time (and if this is flexible)
- Budget (per person or total)
- Room layout
- Food and beverage / catering requirements
- Any other requirements
Once we've gathered these details, the VenueNow team will contact the team at Pause Bar to check:
1) Can they host the event on your preferred date / time? If not, what are some alternate dates / times?
2) What is the estimated cost based on your event requirements?
This process tends to take around 1 business day on average to receive a response from the venue. Once we've received a response, the VenueNow team will contact you as soon as possible.
If you're happy with the proposed price and dates / times, the VenueNow team will connect you with Pause Bar to finalise your booking (which may include a site visit if you choose to do so).
VenueNow provides this service free of charge to you as we are paid a small fee by Pause Bar if you book via us.
How do I find out if Pause Bar is available for my event date?
The best way to find out if Pause Bar is available for your event date is to send an enquiry through or get in contact with one of VenueNow's Event Booking Experts.
Availability at many venues around the country is limited so if your date is flexible, please let the VenueNow team know and the venue may be able to provide a range of dates that suit your needs.
How much does an event cost at Pause Bar?
Events at Pause Bar start from 0.
This may be subject to change due to seasonality, day of the week, duration and your specific requirements. For an accurate quote for your event please send an enquiry or contact one of VenueNow's Event Booking Experts.
What type of events can be hosted at Pause Bar?
The following types of events can be held at Pause Bar:
- Function
- Christmas Party
- Birthday Party
- 50th Birthday Party
- 30th Birthday Party
- 21st Birthday Party
- 40th Birthday Party
- End of Financial Year Party
- Bucks Night
- Hens Night
- Workshop
- Trivia Night
- Product Launch
- Networking Event
- Gala Dinner
- Engagement Party
- Corporate Offsite
- Corporate Function
- Cocktail Party
- Christening
- Bar Mitzvah
- Bat Mitzvah
- Bridal shower
If your specific event type is not on the list, contact one of VenueNow's Event Booking Experts and they will check if Pause Bar is able to facilitate your event or will help you find an alternate venue.
What catering / food and beverage options are available at Pause Bar?
The following food and beverage / catering options are available for guests at Pause Bar:
- Filtered Water
- Coffee / Tea
- Inhouse Catering
- Bar Tab
For more information regarding food and beverage / catering options, please contact a VenueNow Event Booking Expert.