The Pod is a small bar on Little Bourke Street at the western end of the CBD, away from the more tourist-heavy laneway precinct. The space is compact and comfortable, making it better for conversation than the larger bars along King Street. It draws a mix of local workers and residents from the nearby Docklands and West Melbourne fringe.
It is a good option if you want a straightforward drink in a place that has not been designed within an inch of its life. The drinks list covers the basics well. The western CBD section of Little Bourke Street is worth a wander anyway — a mix of old Chinese restaurants, law offices, and small bars that gives a different perspective on the city.