5 of the best places for cocktails in Brisbane
Brisbane's sophisticated bar scene is rising to new heights with cocktails for every occasion.
By Jac Taylor
From dazzling glamour to cheeky speakeasy style, you'll find no shortage of bars in Brisbane serving up cocktails to make your night something special.
Blackbird
Blackbird, Brisbane, Queensland © Blackbird Brisbane
Where: Riverside Centre, 123 Eagle St, Brisbane
Relax on a chesterfield sofa out on the deck, with spectacular 180-degree river views at Blackbird, in the landmark Riverside Centre skyscraper. Full of glamour and speakeasy vibes, this bar is the full experience. Wander to the extensive back bar to find masterfully devised drinks inspired by the 1920s party years, as well as rare and exclusive Scotch, whisky, tequila, bourbon and more.
Next door kitchen & bar
Where: Shop B11, Little Stanley St, South Brisbane
A more casual space, Next Door Kitchen & Bar brings a dynamic menu of food and drink to the popular precinct of South Bank. Take your pick from the indoor and outdoor space and order an expertly crafted cocktail (or cocktail jug if you've come with a group).
John Mills Himself
Where: 40 Charlotte St, Brisbane
John Mills Himself may be tucked away underneath Archives Fine Books, a bookstore stocking rare, second-hand and collectors edition tomes, but the building is easy to find. It is a heritage-listed old printery office that really does have "John Mills Himself" emblazoned across the top. The bar offers only Australian spirits, and beers and wines produced within 250 kilometres (155 miles) to ensure your "drink miles" will be low.
Electric Avenue
Electric Avenue, Brisbane, Queensland © Brisbane Marketing
Where: 23 Logan Rd, Woolloongabba
Electric Avenue is many things: an old-world English-inspired pub, a majestic cocktail bar and an enchanting space to enjoy the evening. The intriguing heritage-listed building is split into three areas, all exuding character and flair. Treat yourself to one of their exquisite contemporary dishes or venture upstairs to Mrs J.Rabbit, where creative cocktails await amid the cosy, speakeasy atmosphere.
Cielo Rooftop
Cielo Rooftop, Brisbane, Queensland © Cielo Rooftop
Where: Rooftop, 209 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley
Perched above Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley sits Cielo Rooftop, an Italian-inspired bar and restaurant with sweeping views and beautifully designed interiors, similar to that found in the Italian Rivera. Take a perch on their sun-drenched terrace and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a European oasis.
