Accused in Vic barman's death in court

A man accused of murdering a bartender in a Melbourne hotel has appeared briefly in court.

Police say Bahij Zeina, 30, of Templestowe stabbed 51-year-old Nevio Cecala, of Broadmeadows, after 11pm (AEDT) on Sunday while the victim was working behind the bar of a hotel in the entertainment precinct of Lygon Street, Carlton.

Mr Cecala was taken to the Royal Melbourne Hospital where he later died.

Zeina was impassive as he was remanded into custody at the Melbourne Magistrate's court on Monday.

His lawyer told the court Zeina's family had concerns for his mental health.

Zeina is next due to appear in the same court on May 12.