Must-Try Cocktail Bars Brisbane: The Ultimate Starlit Sips

Embark on a Night-Time Adventure: Cocktail Bars in Brisbane with the Best Cocktails

Explore the vibrant nightlife of Brisbane and visit some of the best cocktail bars on offer. From the art of mixology at high-end cocktail lounges to the allure of late-night sipping spots, this guide will take you through hidden gems and popular havens alike. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or a mocktail enthusiast, Brisbane’s cool bars have something to excite every taste bud. Here’s a curated list of top bars where every drink is a masterpiece and every visit creates a memorable experience.

Shaken, Not Stirred: The Coolest Cocktail Lounges Around Brisbane

Imagine mixology as a craft and as a performance art. In these esteemed cocktail bars in Brisbane, the shaker acts as a maraca and each pour is a deft pirouette. You’re not merely a customer; you’re an audience captivated by the symphony of spirits and they’re masterfully orchestrated before your eyes. As you venture out in search of your next cocktail, remember: you’re there for a drink and to experience the art of mixology at its finest.

Maggie May’s (Newstead)

Step into the ’70s at Maggie May’s, a standout among Brisbane’s cocktail lounges with its retro decor that vividly paints the disco era. Cocktails like ‘Saturday Night Fever’ and ‘Disco Daddies Ice Tea’ are thematic expressions that match the nostalgic vibes of the venue perfectly. This supper club turns each cocktail session into a vibrant retro party, making it a must-visit for those who cherish the past’s charm.

Location:
Maggie May can be found at 3/84 Longland Street, Newstead, Brisbane, QLD 4006.

Opening Hours:
Sunday: Kitchen open from 11:30 AM to 9 PM, Bar open from 10 AM till late.
Monday: Coffee Cabinet from 7 AM to 2 PM, Kitchen & Bar closed.
Tuesday to Saturday: breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night drinks – extensive opening hours on these days.

Lefty’s Music Hall (Petrie Terrace)

Experience old-school American spirit meets modern flair at Lefty’s. One of the cool bars Brisbane offers where live Americana rock sets the beat. Known for its delicious whiskey & apple cocktail, plus its excellent craft brew selections, this bar wraps you in an atmosphere of high ceilings and haunting melodies, where cocktails come with a dash of Southern hospitality.

Location:
Lefty’s Music Hall is located at 15 Caxton Street, Petrie Terrace, Brisbane, QLD.

Opening Hours:
Friday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Saturday: 5:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Sunday – Thursday: Operating hours are subject to the scheduled gigs.

Highlighting the Maestros of the Mix at Brisbane’s Best Cocktail Bars:

These venues are not just places to grab a drink; they are stages for social interaction and creative expression. Here you’ll mingle with like-minded aficionados and will exchange appreciative nods as you relish the alchemy of alcohol unfolding in real time. A visit transforms from a simple night out to an enriching story.

Hey Chica! (Fortitude Valley)

Experience the heart of Latin America at Hey Chica!, a vibrant addition to cocktail bars in Brisbane. This bustling social club captures the exuberant energy of street fiestas. Sip on tequila-infused creations or lush tropical blends as you move to the rhythm of salsa and bachata. Every sip is a zestful complement to an evening filled with vibrant cultural celebrations.

Location:
T11-14/315 Brunswick Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia.

Opening Hours:
Tuesday to Thursday:
Lunch: 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM
Dinner: 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Friday to Sunday: 11AM to 3AM

Retros (Fortitude Valley)

Step back in time at Retros! One of Brisbane’s coolest bars for retro-themed dance nights, featuring a cocktail menu that includes signature fishbowl cocktails to match its vibrant dance floor. This venue revives the spirit of the 80s, 90s, and 2000s, mixing flavours and eras for an unforgettable night of fun.

Location:
32/321 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia

Opening Hours:
Thursday 9:30 PM – Late
Providing a dedicated night each week for retro music enthusiasts to gather and enjoy a night of nostalgic tunes and dance.

Urban Elixirs: Contemporary Cocktail Bars in Brisbane

As the evening sets in and Brisbane’s daytime energy shifts to a calmer tempo, the true connoisseurs start their exploration for the city’s premier cocktail lounges. These charming spots offer an enchanting mixology experience that peaks in the cooler hours of the night. Get ready to spread your wings and immerse yourself in the sophisticated atmosphere— just note, the dress code might be as refined as the cocktails are bold.

Dutch Courage (Fortitude Valley)

Dutch Courage offers a gin paradise in a 19th-century setting, making it one of the best cocktail bars Brisbane has for gin lovers. With over 140 gins and vintage-inspired decor, it’s a sophisticated space to explore and enjoy gin-based cocktails.

Location:
51 Alfred St, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane QLD 4006

Opening Hours:
Thursday – Friday: 4:30 PM till late
Saturday: 3:00 PM till late
Sunday: 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Monday – Wednesday: Closed

Death & Taxes (Brisbane CBD)

For a refined nocturnal experience, Death & Taxes stands out among cocktail lounges in Brisbane. This elegant urban oasis offers an extensive cocktail list that ensures a perfect mix for any palate, served in a sophisticated atmosphere that caters to those with a taste for the finer things.

Location:
36 Burnett Ln, Brisbane City QLD 4000

Opening Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 3pm – 1am
Friday – Saturday: 2pm – 2am

Shake, Stir, and Laugh Your Way Through the Best Local Cocktail Bars

Well, folks, we’ve swirled our way through the crème de la crème of mixology havens in your neck of the woods, and let me tell you, it’s been a hoot and a half. Cocktail connoisseur or not, there’s a stool with your name on it at one of these spots. Life’s too short for boring beverages! Grab your pals, don your snazziest outfit, and make a beeline for these boozy bastions. So, keep your spirits up and your drinks fancier than a top hat on a flamingo.

Embrace the night at these late-night havens where the drinks are chilled, the scenes are sizzling, and the memories are just waiting to be made. Brisbane’s cocktail culture has a nocturnal nest that’s sure to satisfy. So let loose Latin style, groove to golden oldies, and unwind in an upscale ambience!

Cheers!

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I expect from a top-rated cocktail bar?

At a top-rated cocktail bar, you can expect expert mixologists, a diverse selection of spirits from around the world, original and signature drinks, and a sophisticated atmosphere.

What are some of the coolest cocktail bars in Brisbane?

The coolest cocktail bars in Brisbane include Maggie May’s, Lefty’s Music Hall, Dutch Courage, and Hey Chica!

Where can I find a good cocktail lounge in Brisbane that offers a nostalgic experience?

Maggie May’s in Newstead is renowned for its 70s-themed decor and cocktails that channel the disco era. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to relive the vibrant 70s.

Can you recommend a place for late-night cocktails in Brisbane?

Hey Chica! in Fortitude Valley and Death & Taxes in Brisbane CBD are fantastic choices for late-night cocktails.

What makes Lefty’s Music Hall special?

Situated on Caxton Street, Lefty’s Music Hall offers a unique setting that blends old-school American allure, an alternative vibe to a traditional club, featuring craft cocktails and live Americana rock.

Where can I experience mixology as a performance art in Brisbane?

The cocktail joints Dutch Courage and Hey Chica! described in the blog!

What are some options for a vibrant retro party in Brisbane?

Retros in Fortitude Valley offers a retro-themed night with a cocktail menu that includes nostalgic hits from the 80s, 90s, and 2000s.

Are there any cocktail bars in Brisbane that are good for late-night dancing?

Yes, Hey Chica! and Retros are excellent for late-night dancing. They offer energetic atmospheres and music that will keep you moving all night long.

Where can I find a sophisticated cocktail bar in Brisbane’s CBD?

Death & Taxes offers a sophisticated urban retreat with a wide array of cocktails, perfect for those looking to unwind in a more refined setting.

Want to know where the best birthday party venues are hiding out? Check out our latest blog: The Search for the Best Birthday Party Venues in Brisbane for Adults is Over