The Esplanade Hotel…open to all since 1878 For over 100 years the Esplanade Hotel has been Melbourne’s (and indeed Australia’s) premier live music venue. Since the early days of string performances in the late 1800s The Espy’s hallowed stages have been graced by the finest performers from around Australia and the world. Truly a physical landmark in St Kilda, and a cultural icon to Australia, the Espy continues this long standing tradition of live music, on an average week the pub plays host to over 50 bands and DJs across 3 stages 7 days a week and alot of it free.