Brisbane’s hospitality scene is booming right now. Not much time passes by without a hot new restaurant, bar or cafe opening up – and it can feel overwhelming knowing which one to try next. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best with our pick of new Brisbane bars. Save this list if you need some inspo for your next tipple.
Alcotraz
If you want a little something different, something that includes immersive storytelling, expertly mixed cocktails, and a touch of mischief, consider this your official warning: Alcotraz has landed in Brisbane.
This bar visit is a fully interactive experience where you’re dropped into a living narrative and encouraged to engage as much as possible. Will you side with the guards, scheme with fellow inmates, or mastermind a full-blown prison plot? There’s only one way to find out: getting inside.
The Alligator Club
Travel all the way to New Orleans without your passport thanks to sizzling new bar and live music venue, The Alligator Club! This is a swamp that never sleeps, with musicians playing live seven nights a week until 3am, and their creative cocktails flowing.
Shaman
If you love a hidden bar and want to be in the know, Shaman, with its big, unmarked wooden doork tucked into an alley, deserves to be on your radar. Although the temptation to gatekeep is strong, we can tell you that its stunnning list of rum and tequila will have your head spinning in more ways than one, as will the intimate interior and innovative cocktails.
Ruma Rooftop
Who doesn’t love a rooftop? Recently-opened Ruma Rooftop‘s tropical island vibes soar over Brisbane, its warm, welcoming terracotta tones and shady palm trees transporting you to an idyllic beach somewhere. Complementing this aesthetic, their refreshing cocktails and stunning, island-inspired menu truly make this feel like an escape.
Moonshine Saloon
Strong cocktails, a little friendly competition and a storyline you can step straight into: Moonshine Saloon: The Wild West Cocktail Experience has brought a slice of the frontier to Brisbane, and it’s your new favourite hangout spot.
Become a bootlegger inside Clyde Cassidy’s underground empire at this here watering hole. Expect card games, dice rolls, and four expertly mixed cocktails—all served with a side of immersive theatre. Saddle up and get your tickets!
Le Royale
All the mystique of an underground live jazz joint mixed the chicness of a French bar results in Le Royale. With moody lighting, cosy seating, and smooth music, this is a place that makes you feel like anything can happen, especially with one of their martinis in your hand.
Fountainhead Winehouse
Its stylish yet cosy and accessible atmosphere will put you immediately at ease. This basement space, which describes itself as a winehouse offers a wonderfully unfussy and varying wine list by the glass, with a knowledgeable team on hand to advise and teach. Meet your (wine) match and catch up between sips at this all-purpose vino paradise.
Kasem Sook Social
Calling all So What Stereo — the amazing Thai restaurant — lovers! The beloved venue now has a spin-off: Kasem Sook Social. Think of it as So What Stereo’s rebellious sibling, with its own entrance around the back, an evening menu and, most importantly, live music and drinks!
