From rooftop bars to whisky libraries, take a sip through this list of the top cocktail bars in Brisbane!
Brisbane is the city where breathtaking beaches, sun-kissed riverbanks and a bustling city are beautiful blended. And, amongst the pulsating vibe and energy the city itself brings, Brisbane boasts a charismatic array of cocktail bars.
Fusing creativity with craftmanship and outright coolness, Brisbane’s most top-rated cocktails are tucked away in laneways, soaring to the skies on rooftop sanctuaries and tucked away ready for us to explore.
So, to kickstart you on your sippable journey, we’ve curated a guide to the best cocktail bars in Brisbane that you must visit in 2024. Cheers!
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Circa 27 Whiskey & Cocktail Bar
Previously known as the Naked Whisky Bar, after a slight revamp, Morrison Hotel is delighted to reintroduce their very own designated whisky oasis: Circa 27 Whiskey & Cocktail Bar. Named after the year in which the venue was built, this inner-city drinking spot is the home to 20th century inspired cocktails, more than 250 whiskies and their famed library-styled bar. With plenty of beer and wine to woo you over, the standout is Circa 27’s crafty cocktail collection.
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Cloudland
One of the Best Bottomless Brunches in Brisbane, it makes perfect sense as to why Cloudland would make this list of Brisbane’s best cocktail bars. Located in Fortitude Valley, Cloudland is famed for their stunning and equally charismatic venue which resembles a lush garden setting. With live music, an Italian inspired menu, and plenty of crafty cocktails to choose from, Cloudland is the dreamiest destination you need to add to your bucket list this year.
Photographed by Edward Howell. Image via Unsplash.
Covent Garden
Covent Garden is the ultimate place for gin lovers in south-east Queensland. This dash of heaven takes plenty of inspiration from the Covent Garden in London’s West End, but with a sharp focus on Australian-made gin concoctions. We recommend you tickle your palate with one of their seasonal specials such as the High Priestess made with Ginesis Dry Gin, sparkling wine, lavender and lemon. Of course, as a dedicated gin cocktail bar, be spontaneous and taste your way through some of their 200+ gins.
Photographed by Market Partner. Image supplied.
Dirty Sultan
This Neo-Turkish rooftop cocktail bar is by far one of the coolest places to head to this weekend. Topping The Constance Hotel, Dirty Sultan is famed for their street food inspired cuisine served with a modern twist. Of course, as one of the best cocktail bars in Brisbane, Dirty Sultan shakes up plenty of bespoke drinks. Or, you can always just sit back and enjoy the surroundings in their private shisha lounge for a flavourful and authentic Turkish experience.
Photographed by Annie Spratt. Image via Unsplash.
Dutch Courage
Welcome to Queensland’s first ever gin bar! At Dutch Courage you’ll find good food, amazing drinks and the perfect spot to celebrate – it’s simple. Stretched out over two levels, expect eclecticism, vintage furniture, safari touches, over 150 gins and even an impressive spirit collection boasting over 250 bottles. That being said, Dutch Courage know how to concoct a crafty cocktail, so clear your schedule and be sure to give this cool bar a visit.
Photographed by PixelFrame. Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Fiume
Fiume is a glamorous outdoor drinking spot and terrace rooftop bar channeling Los Angeles rooftop vibes. Nestled at the bend of the Brisbane River, Fiume is described as a glamorous urban oasis that’s perfect for cocktail lovers. With an extensive cocktail list, cocktail jugs and stunning views, this rooftop cocktail bar in Brisbane certainly knows how to make a splash. Pair your drink with their Italian-inspired bar snacks and kick back by the pool, or kick on with a cracking soundtrack and get the party started.
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The Gresham Bar
This whisky bar in Brisbane is more than just a friendly watering hole. It’s a piece of history and, more importantly, it’s one of the best cocktail bars in Brisbane. Previously the Queensland National Bank, The Gresham Bar that hangs off Queen Street interestingly has the only Heritage Bar License in all of Queensland. With limestone-lined walls, The Gresham is stocked to the brim with locally and internationally sourced beers, an impressive range of whiskies and, of course, great bartenders who know how to shake up a tippled traditional cocktail. You’ll feel robbed if you don’t visit them!
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Hibiscus Room
If sipping on cocktails at one of Brisbane’s best rooftop bars hasn’t sold you, maybe the 20-metre infinity pool will. This gorgeous bar is part of Hyatt Regency Brisbane, but all you need is a drink purchase and you can enjoy the most scenic swim in Brisbane. The Hibiscus Room is a staple of Brisbane’s rooftop bar scene, which is hardly surprising thanks to their top lineup of live DJs, stunning views, the famous prawn cocktails and a seasonal food menu. This is the perfect spot to soak up all that Brisbane has to offer, both day and night.
Photographed by David Chatfield. Image supplied by Coats Group.
MAYA Mexican
This Mexican cocktail bar in Fortitude Valleys offers a rich diversity of regional Mexican cuisine created with the best Australian produce. Taking the place of Eleven Rooftop Bar, MAYA Mexican was originally designed as a pop-up but has now secured a spot as a permanent restaurant and rooftop bar. Take the elevator to the 11th floor and step into an oasis of white-washed walls, olive trees, cactus gardens and live music all with knockout city views of Brisbane. The menu features contemporary renditions of traditional Mexican street fare, mezcal and artisanal tequila.
Photographed by Jesse Lindemann.
Image via Tourism and Events Queensland.
Sixteen Antlers
Above the well-known Mercure Hotel, you’ll find one of Brisbane’s best cocktail bars, Sixteen Antlers. Taking its name from the roof ‘branches’ which kind of look like deer’s antlers, along with the leafy decor you’ll find an intimate space with comfortable seating which is perfect for a midweek break or a fun Friday night. With uninterrupted city views, here you’ll also find live DJs, boutique beers, quality wines, delectable cocktails and an impressive seasonal tapas menu.
For cocktails and sweeping city views, check out this guide to the Best Rooftop Bars in Brisbane. Or, grab a feed and a pint from one of these Top 7 Pubs in Brisbane of 2024.
