Treat your tastebuds to a tantalising liquid treat at Brisbane’s coolest cocktail bars.
From hip, contemporary haunts to glam old-world digs, these seven swanky venues offer a sophisticated space to sip.
Finney Isles
Specialising in cocktails, wine, and charcuterie, this 1920s-themed Fortitude Valley venue brings back the decadence of yesteryear. The cosy, low-lit interiors evoke a warm and friendly ambience, perfect for a pre-dinner tipple or intimate date.
Chatty mixologists, well-constructed cocktails, and delicious nibbles make this a top spot to while away a day. If you can’t find the place, look behind the non-descript blue door.
Dr Gimlette
Smack bang in the centre of the CBD, this upmarket joint is a hit with high-rolling office workers seeking a sophisticated post-work tipple. From the sparkling chandeliers to the leather upholstered couches and the luxe marble bar, it feels more five-star hotel than inner-city drinking hole.
But you’re here for the booze, and the Doctor has the perfect prescription for you. Knowledgable mixologists concoct a smorgasbord of delectable whisky and gin-based treats. If you can’t decide what to order, just grab something off the passing martini cart—easy peasy.
The End
A West End favourite, The End is a sociable, easy-going spot to share a drink with friends. It’s more laidback than other Brisbane cocktail bars, so you won’t need to dress up to fit in.
Struggling to keep the conversation flowing?
Staff lend out board games from behind the bar (Scrabble is always a good choice). In addition, ad-hoc live performances from local bands and DJs energise the crowd on weekends.
Savile Row
Dark and moody Savile Row encapsulates the understated elegance of London’s iconic tailoring district. Spanning five floors, the sprawling Fortitude Valley venue impresses with its crystalline chandeliers and striking stencil artwork.
Whisky lovers can choose from a bewildering collection of bottles from all corners of the globe.
The Gresham Bar
Set in a Victorian-style sandstone building in the CBD, this old-timey joint hangs on tight to its historical past. Vintage décor and old-world antiques lie strewn throughout the venue, while centuries-old portraits compete for limited wall space.
Although the décor is old-fashioned, the philosophy is anything but. This casual establishment prioritises hospitality over pretension and attitude over dress codes.
Death & Taxes
Inspired by the underground speakeasies of old-world Paris, this sophisticated CBD oozes antiquated charm. But that’s hardly surprising given it’s located in the oldest laneway in the city.
Intimate, low-key lighting and a grand back bar with over a thousand whisky bottles greet guests as they step through the door.
Experience the Best of Brisbane with Kiff & Culture
Keen to chow down on gourmet delights and sip top-shelf tipples in Brisbane?
Then let Kiff & Culture take you to the city’s finest establishments in one extravagant epicurean adventure. We visit our hands-down favourite restaurants, breweries, and distilleries on the Brisbane Artisan Food & Drink tour.
Image Credit: Finney Isles via Instagram, Dr Gimlette via Instagram, The End via Instagram, Savile Row via Instagram, The Gresham Bar via Instagram & Death & Taxes via Instagram
