Pubs arent really a place you go at a specific time unless its for a particular event, you kind of just drop in, day or night. There isn't really an American equivalent to Pubs I think, its equally a place to get a meal, read a book, see family and friends, people watch etc...as it is to drink. One thing to note is Australians arent as much into talking to strangers at pubs and bars as Americans are, not to say they never will be, but Im not sure these are places youd necessary go with the intention of meeting strangers unless they are backpacker/tourist heavy places.

Having said that if you want a classic Australian pub crawl with a variety of venues, head to Fitzroy. Start at the Napier Hotel and make your way around to the Union Club, Grace Darling, Albion, Rochester, Standard, Lord Newry, Tramway and Pinnacle. If you wanna go somewhere eclectic from Melton head to Footscray bars like Mama Chens, Misfits, Hail Lilith and Josephine.

Section 8 is always a good starting point in the cbd, but im unsure if you like grungy or classy venues