It feels good to be bad. That’s what my plus one and I learnt when we donned orange jumpsuits and entered our prison cell. No, we weren’t in trouble for breaking the law. Rather, we were getting into character as two prison inmates at Alcotraz, Melbourne’s newest immersive cocktail experience.
Alcotraz takes themed bars to whole new level. It’s like live theatre, an escape room, and a movie set had a booze-fuelled baby. The venue is decked out like a prohibition era prison complete with detailed set dressing. Think ye olde love letters pinned to the wall, a bank of phones, and a cell-block toilet. The staff acts as prison guards, bootlegging bartenders, and an iron-fisted warden. 
Before entering the venue we were read a set of rules, reminding us this is a silly daft night of fun (and in no way a commentary on the actual prison system). A second important rule for Alcotraz (as well as for life), ‘don’t be a dick head.’ Confident we could be daft without being dick heads, my plus one and I lined up for our prison uniforms and introduced ourselves to our two fun-loving cellmates.
The night is an immersive experience, split into various activities throughout the evening. In between drinking quality cocktails, we watched actors playing inmates and prison guards perform scripted scenes. But my favourite part of Alcotraz was interacting with the performers off-the-cuff, and going on side quests. We applied for parole, searched for prison blueprints, and visited a cellmate in the hole. Though if you prefer, you’re also welcome to just chill with your friends.
Unlike regular bars, Alcotraz is a unique BYO booze venue. Guests ‘smuggle’ in their own alcohol and attempt to keep it hidden from the no-nonsense warden. Using your booze as a base, experienced bartenders (aka bootleggers) whip up approximately four cocktails with house mixers and garnishes based on your drink preferences. Our new friends liked things sweet, with pineapple slices and a cherry on top. Whist I’m bitter to the core.
The design is considered, from the prison paint colours to the props. There’s also plenty of Instagram opportunities – especially if orange is your colour. But the charismatic actors took the experience to the next level. It was a delight watching them improvise in character throughout the night (and commit to the old timey American accents.) Another bonus: whilst it’s easy to find activities for couples, I rate Alcotraz as good for groups or double dates. 
After opening in seven locations across the UK, Alcotraz is making its first overseas debut in Melbourne. Gotta say, I’m proud of my city’s reputation for embracing themed bars, immersive theatre, and quality cocktails.
– Jenny
Jenny S. is an event adventurer. When she’s not attending live shows, you can find her sipping a creative cocktail and dreaming of warmer days.
Alcotraz is now open at 592 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne. The experience runs 1 hour 45 minutes. Age requirement: 18+. Book tickets now.
