The best Brisbane bars to let the good times roll

Toast the weekend with the city’s most fun-loving locals at the best Brisbane bars.

Flushed with mixology masterminds and hospitality trailblazers, Brisbane exploits its after-dark potential in style. Scattered throughout burgeoning entertainment precincts, and often blessed with water views, I really believe Brisbane bars are among the best on the planet.

From waterfront marvels and laneway gems to unassuming holes-in-the-wall and bustling al fresco spaces, the best Brisbane bars unleash guaranteed good times. Let me spin you through the city’s most exceptional, one lazy session at a time…

In short

If you only visit one Brisbane bar, make it Stan’s Lounge within Howard Smith Wharves. It’s just so uniquely glam, paying homage to the ritz of Hong Kong nightlife, and the tunes are always killer.

1. Isoletto Pool Club

food and drinks at Isoletto Pool Club, Brisbane — Isoletto Pool Club takes classic cocktails to the next level. (Image: The Star Brisbane)

As a Gold Coast local, I was initially dazzled by Isoletto Pool Club within The Star at Broadbeach, so it was music to my ears to learn the brand spread its wings further north. Mirroring the Glitter Strip’s luxurious European-inspired day club, the Brisbane iteration flows with three infinity pools overlooking the Brisbane River, a sauna and steam room, a gym, signature wet lounges constructed within the pool to immerse yourself without running your blow-dry, and of course, one heavily stocked bar. The only hitch? You’ll need to stay at The Star Brisbane to gain access. Seriously worth the consideration, given you’re far from slumming it across its multiple five-star accommodation options.

Address: Level 7, The Star Brisbane, 33 William St, Brisbane

2. Winnifred’s

15,000 bottles of Champagne (as in, the real stuff) to choose from. More than 300 cuvées. There is nothing I don’t like about Winnifred’s in Brisbane’s inner-city. This place is such a great option for quality bubbles by the glass, perched up on a bar stool at a luxe green granite bar. Hot tip: follow the team’s Instagram for fresh imports recommended by experts and accompanied by tasting notes. A gorgeous spot in the city to treat yourself, and if your appetite swells, there’s a menu of French-inspired dishes utilising peak local produce.

Address: 34 Arthur St, Fortitude Valley

3. Stan’s Lounge

alfresco dining at Stan’s Lounge, Brisbane — Stan’s Lounge channels old-world Hong Kong vibes. (Image: Markus Ravik)

Elevating Stanley at Howard Smith Wharves to all-new heights (literally), Stan’s Lounge is my favourite kick-on spot. Perched above the fine dining restaurant, I’m instantly transported to a deeply exclusive Hong Kong speakeasy from the moment I step inside. Taking inspiration from the Chinese city, the vibe is sexy on steroids — think velvet furnishings, mirrored wall features, brass tables and a solid palette of jewel upon dark. The drinks are smashing, spanning classics done to perfection as well as imaginative signature concoctions. Snack-wise, it’s a new-world homage to old-school Hong Kong as refined Cantonese-inspired plates, like crayfish San Choy Bao and lobster and truffle dumplings, send spirits soaring. The cherry on top? There’s a separate secretish area at the front of the bar that stares directly out over the Brisbane River.

Address: Upstairs at Stanley, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

4. The Beaumont

a woman enjoying drinks at The Beaumont, Brisbane — The Beaumont’s signature cocktails are unmissable.

Opened in April 2025, The Beaumont adds yet another high-flying hot spot to Brisbane’s rooftop bar scene. What I love about this one is how relaxed the place feels, entirely unpretentious no matter how late I’m up there as top-notch pub grub cements its beer garden vibes. Expect classic cocktails plus a series of signature creations (the Aussie Sunrise is a standout, embracing native ingredients like finger lime and Kakadu plum), while the food menu spans woodfired pizzas, burgers, sandwiches and smaller snacks.

Address: 608 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

5. Above Rooftop

a woman eating by the pool at Above Rooftop, Brisbane — Enjoy Middle Eastern-inspired bites by the pool.

Speaking of rooftop hijinks, Above Rooftop atop Ovolo opened its doors at the end of October 2025 and crowds are already flocking. It gives serious day club vibes, complete with the hotel’s famed swimming pool, as DJs spin their magic while drinks flow and a menu of Middle Eastern-inspired bites line tummies. Go for a cocktail (can you tell I love them?) – I recommend one of the boozy slushies: the Twilight mixes strawberry, vodka and Davidson plum, and the Aurora shakes tequila, coconut milk and pineapple. A serious tropical island fix without leaving Brisbane city.

Address: Ovolo The Valley, 1000 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

6. Maker

A sliver in the wall along Fish Lane, right near South Bank in Brisbane’s CBD, Maker is a slick operation I can’t resist dropping into. A shimmering 7.5-metre brass bar slings low, where I always choose to sit for a good look at the action. The gang are supremely talented, shaking and stirring the classics with precision while spinning seasonal ingredients into smooth, far-too-drinkable winners. You’ll struggle to avoid a gourmet toastie if they’re already cooking on in the sandwich press (melted cheese is my kryptonite). Or perhaps it’s something from the charcuterie cabinet that’ll hook you…

Address: 9 Fish Lane, South Brisbane

7. Canvas Club

the secret garden at Canvas Club, Brisbane — The secret garden offers a lush hangout place for beer lovers.

See that vintage tailors on the main road in Woolloongabba? Trust me, it’s a vibe. Canvas Club is a cocktail and tapas bar serving up high-quality concoctions, spirits, beers and wine alongside delicious small plates (and Rodriguez & Co tailor is just for show, by the way). It’s entirely intimate and secret squirrel-feeling, led by the 1940s-inspired decor and living room-friendly interiors, and that’s before you find The Tailors, its Friday night jazz-filled speakeasy past dressing room mirrors right next door to Canvas. One of the best Brisbane bars, there’s even a secret beer garden dotted with leafy foliage and fairy lights.

Address: 16 Logan Rd, Woolloongabba

8. Death & Taxes

the bar counter at Death & Taxes, Brisbane — Pull up a leather chair at this speakeasy-style cocktail and whisky bar.

Pick your poison from more than 500 whiskeys (if you don’t believe the count, take a look at the haul crawling up the wall behind the bar) at Death & Taxes . One of the best Brisbane bars to propel the city’s thriving laneway culture, the dimly lit space is filled with rich leather bar stools and leather booths dotted with candles. Drinks-wise, you’re obviously spoilt for choice but don’t miss masterful cocktails that pay tribute to Hollywood film stars, fictional characters and Aussie legends like Layne Beachley (tropical like a Harvey Wallbanger) and Kath & Kim (zesty like a mojito).

Address: 36 Burnett Ln, Brisbane

9. Pawn & Co.

Pawn & Co. perfumery in Brisbane — Pawn & Co. doubles as a perfumery. (Image: Dominic Loneragan)

There’s nothing in Australia, let alone Brisbane, like Pawn & Co. . As wickedly peculiar as the hideaways more often found in New York (I’m reminded so much of Manhattan’s Beauty & Essex), this Brisbane bar doubles (well, triples) as a perfumery, where you can create your own scent, and a pawn shop as you can purchase everything in the bar for the right price. Then there are the drinks. Don’t be surprised to see them smoke up a storm or pour right out of glass perfume bottles. It’s theatrical and barrels of fun.

Address: 680 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

10. The Old Seven

fromagerie and charcuterie menu at The Old Seven, Brisbane — The fromagerie and charcuterie menu is the main drawcard at The Old Seven.

A suburban star located about 20 minutes from the CBD, The Old Seven in Camp Hill is a charming wine bar stocked with dreamy, cheesy accompaniments. The fromagerie and charcuterie menu stalks the globe for outstanding delicacies, and the team even turn some of their most suited cheeses into piping hot jaffles. Chase the gourmet treasures down with exceptional international wines, including a whopping 60 available by the glass.

Address: 567 Old Cleveland Rd, Camp Hill

11. Bar Miette

the elegant setting at Bar Miette, Brisbane — The elegant Bar Miette is the ultimate spot for a sundowner. (Image: Josh Robenstone)

Found within Queen’s Wharf Brisbane entertainment precinct, Bar Miette is elegant, Instagram-perfect and overlooking the Brisbane River. I squint hard enough to imagine it’s the Seine, actually. Nodding to the bistros of Europe from a look-and-feel perspective, this Brisbane bar’s drinks go bigger, taking inspiration from every corner of the globe. Don’t miss the Champagne list, which flies into extreme high-roller territory, as well as the limoncello for a real sense of escapism.

Address: 443 Queen St, Brisbane

12. Southside Garden Bar

What used to be Kiki, right out the front of Southside in Fish Lane, is closed until January 2026, but that doesn’t stop me from grabbing a cheeky at Southside Garden Bar when I’m in the neighbourhood. An inner-city sanctuary set amongst lush subtropical greenery, the bar at one of Brisbane’s best restaurants is an enthralling oasis that envelops guests. The cocktail menu is always tempting, nailing classics like an espresso martini (my husband rates these as some of the best in town) and punchy creativity. Plus, there’s a broad list of wines and beers to help set the tone.

Address: 63 Melbourne St, South Brisbane

13. Cobbler

preparing a cocktail drink at Cobbler, Brisbane — Cobbler makes impressive cocktails all night.

If you’re serious about your whiskey, this one’s for you. Cobbler is home to more than 500 varieties, and they’re stacked high behind a beautiful, ornate bar. They do stellar cocktails, too, doused with fruity and seasonal flavours, but it’s all about the hard stuff at this bar. Choose your favourite and sink into one of the leather bar stools, leather dining chairs or that all-too-delicious chocolate leather lounge.

Address: 7 Browning St, West End

14. Savile Row

a look inside Savile Row, Brisbane bar — Savile Row is a top spot for spirit purists.

While we’re in the mood for top-shelf whiskey, let me shine a light on Savile Row . Peek behind an orange door to uncover yet another ode to the hard stuff, boasting more than 900 spirits, including hundreds of whiskeys. It’s a spot for spirit purists with a range of sherry and amaro up for grabs. Award-winning cocktails (these guys took out Australian Bartender magazine’s Australia’s Whiskey Bar of the Year award in 2025 following several earlier accolades) are solidly streamed, expertly blended to let the flavours of these extraordinary spirits oh-so-subtly shine.

Address: 667 Ann St, Fortitude Valley

15. The Gresham Bar

The Gresham Bar, Brisbane — The Gresham Bar is renowned for its beautiful range of rum and whiskey. (Image: Sean Waters)

Wrap your lips around the city’s hardest-to-source spirits and liquors at The Gresham Bar . Renowned for its beautiful range of rum and whiskey, as well as its fierce mixology chops, the popular inner-city sanctuary takes pride in old-school hospitality and its historical 1880s digs. Quench your thirst (go for a spirit tasting flight if the options are overwhelming) before sinking your teeth into small bites like toasties and cheese boards.

Address: 308 Queen St, Brisbane City

16. The Nixon Room

a vine-covered alley leading to The Nixon Room, Fortitude Valley — This intimate little bar is tucked in a vine-covered alley.

Brought to you by the team behind Essa, one of the best Brisbane restaurants, The Nixon Room is a completely charming next-door small bar that hooks the cool kids. Firstly, the interior is every shade of chocolate, dotted with trendy furnishings, and then there’s the fact that there’s space for just 25 guests at a time, so it’s instantly exclusive. The martinis are crowd pleasers; however, a smart edit of wine and beer also impresses. DJs spinning vinyl provide the icing on the cake.

Address: Unit 3, 181 Robertson St, Fortitude Valley

17. Babylon Gardens

While many love its fine dining restaurant, I like Babylon Brisbane for a scenic pre-dinner tipple on the water. Set right off the Brisbane River and offering seriously soothing views, the Brisbane bar is al fresco and spills over with good vibes. A perfect place for singles keen to mingle, it attracts large groups of revellers, so get there early to secure a central spot. A menu of signature cocktails runs the entire taste spectrum, and there’s also a bunch of spritzes, wine and beer to consider.

Address: Babylon Brisbane, 145 Eagle St, Brisbane

18. Mr. Percival’s

Mr. Percival’s with views of Brisbane River — Imbibe signature concoctions overlooking the picturesque Brisbane River.

An original star of Howard Smith Wharves, Mr. Percival’s was one of the first cool kids on the historical wharfage block. Set right over river beneath Story Bridge, the location is unbeatable. I like to grab one of the bar stools so I’m right in the action, but finding a table next to the expansive windows also offers an epic, river-flooded photo backdrop. Feeling outdoorsy? Grab a spot on the deck under a blush pink umbrella. Multiple spritzes scatter the menu, as do cocktail jugs, wine and beer, plus you can line your belly with snacky share plates like prawn cocktail rolls, fried calamari and arancini balls. An instant party starter, no matter when you arrive.

Address: Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary St, Brisbane

Exploring the world’s largest sand island starts with the perfect K’gari homebase.

The morning light is still soft, but it’s already a perfect sunny day. We left our K’gari homebase at Kingfisher Bay Resort with our guide, Peter Meyer, at 9 am to make the most of our time to explore all that the world’s largest sand island holds. The size of K’gari is hard to grasp until you arrive here. This is no sandbar. Stretching 120 kilometres, unique lakes, mangrove systems, rainforest, 75 Miles of beach, historic shipwrecks, small townships and even one of Queensland’s best bakeries are all hidden within its bounds.

But first, one of the island’s most iconic sights: the pure silica sand and crystal clear waters of Lake McKenzie.

Laying eyes on it for the first time, I’m finally able to confirm that the photos don’t lie. The sand is pure white, without the merest hint of yellow. The water fades from a light halo of aqua around the edges to a deeper, royal blue, the deeper it gets (not that it’s particularly deep, six metres at most). The surface remains surprisingly undisturbed, like a mirror.

Arriving with our guide before 10 am means that no one else is around when we get here. Which means we have the pleasure of breaking the smooth surface with our own ripples as we enter. As a self-confessed wimp with chilly water temperatures, my fears are quickly assuaged. Even in the morning, the water stays around 23 degrees – perfect for lazing about all day. But we have more sights to see.

Exploring K’gari

ariel of in lake mckenzie on k'gari fraser island — Relax in the warm waters of Lake McKenzie. (Image: Ayeisha Sheldon)

This was the Personalised 4WD tour offered by Kingfisher Bay Resort, and my absolute top pick of experiences. Over the course of the day, we had the freedom to create our own bespoke itinerary (plus a provided picnic lunch along the way), with an expert guide who had plenty of stories and local expertise to give context to what we were looking at. From the history of the SS Maheno shipwreck, which survived the First World War only to be washed ashore by a cyclone in 1935, to a detailed description of how an island made of sand could sustain such diverse flora.

If it’s your first time to K’gari, the Beauty Spots Tour is another great option. Departing daily from Kingfisher Bay Resort (you’ll start to notice a trend, as many of the tours do start and end here), an air-conditioned, 4WD bus takes guests to the island’s most iconic locations, including the best places to swim, like Lake McKenzie and Eli Creek. The latter offers a gentle current, perfect for riding with a blow-up tyre out towards the ocean.

The next day, for a look at a completely different side of K’gari, I joined one of Kingfisher Bay Resort’s Immersive Ranger-guided tours to kayak through the mangroves of Dundonga Creek. This long, snake-like stretch of creek winds its way inland from the ocean outlet we entered by, at times too narrow for three kayaks to be side-by-side. Small insects buzz from leaf to leaf, while birds call overhead. Occasional bubbles indicate we’ve passed some fish that call this place home.

kayak tour through the mangroves at k'gari island — Learn about the island’s mangroves from your Ranger. (Image: Reuben Nutt/ TEQ)

If kayaking isn’t for you – or if, like me, you simply want more – other ranger-led experiences include nature walks and a dedicated Junior Eco Ranger Program for kids ages five to 12 (these run every weekend, and daily over the peak December holidays). Just ask for a timetable of upcoming tours when you check in.

While during whale season, Hervey Bay Whale Watch & Charters operates tours from the hotel’s jetty to get up close to the famous Humpback Highway of Hervey Bay, from 7 November to 31 May, attention turns to the Aqua Oasis Cruise . Departing from the resort every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday for resort guests, adventure along the island’s remote western coast, pointing out wildlife like dolphins, turtles, flying fish and eagles along the way.

The cruise drops anchor so guests can jump into the water using the boat’s equipment – from SUP boards to inflatable slides and jumping platforms. Then refuel with a provided lunch, of course.

Unwind at sunset

two people drinking cocktails at sunset bar, kingfisher bay resort — Unwind at the Sunset Bar. (Image: Sean Scott)

As much as days on K’gari can be filled with adventure, to me, the afternoons and evenings there are for unwinding. Sunsets on K’gari are absolutely unbelievable, with Kingfisher Bay on the west side being the best spot to catch the colours.

The Sunset Bar , located at the start of the resort’s jetty and overlooking the beach, is the ultimate location for sundowners. Let chill beats wash over you as you sip on cool wines, beers and cocktails in a relaxed, friendly vibe. Personally, a cheese board was also absolutely called for. As the sun sinks, the sand, sea and horizon turn a vibrant shade of orange, with the jetty casting a dramatic shadow across the water.

When the show is over, head back to the hotel for dinner at the Asian-fusion Dune restaurant, or the pub-style Sand + Wood. But if your appetite is still whetted for more lights and colours, the evening isn’t over yet.

Settle into the Illumina stage for Return to Sky, an immersive light and sound show leading viewers on a captivating journey through K’gari’s stories and landscapes.

Indulge and disconnect

woman setting up massage room at kingfisher bay resort Island Day Spa — Find bliss at Island Day Spa. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Of course, there is a type of traveller who knows that balance is important, day or night. While Kingfisher Bay Resort offers more than one pool for guests to spend all day lounging by (they’ll even serve you food and drinks while you do it), you’ll find me at the Island Day Spa.

The masseuses could match the magic hands of any big city spa, and I felt the warm welcome as I walked into the light, breezy reception. Choose from a range of botanical facials, beauty treatments and soothing massages using traditional techniques (obviously, I couldn’t go past a relaxing massage). All products used contain organic, native botanical ingredients with nutrient-rich plant extracts to soothe skin and mind. To really indulge, try out one of the packages, couples treatment or even a pre-wedding day offering.

Getting there

kingfisher bay resort 4wd tour driving passed ss maheno on k'gari island — The world of K’gari awaits. (Image: Jessica Miocevich)

Getting to K’gari is shockingly easy. Find daily flights into Hervey Bay from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. Kingfisher Bay Resort offers a shuttle bus between the airport, their headquarters in Hervey Bay and the ferry to take you to K’gari.