12 Great Bars Across Brisbane: Where to Drink Right Now
Brisbane's bar scene spans everything from hidden laneways to rooftop views. Whether you're after craft beer, cocktails, or a neighbourhood spot with character, these venues offer solid options across the city's best-known precincts.
1Bars Paddington1. The Scratch Bar
Located in Paddington, this is a good option if you want a bar with substance in one of Brisbane's established inner-west suburbs.
View venue4.8(1,156)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look- 2Bars Kangaroo Point
2. Winghaus Edward Street
Positioned in Kangaroo Point, this venue offers a bar experience in a riverside suburb with easy access to the city.
View venue4.6(2,423)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look 
3Bars Paddington3. Death and Taxes Brisbane
Another solid Paddington option if you're exploring bars in that pocket and want variety within the neighbourhood.
View venue4.7(1,424)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Bars Hamilton4. Miss Demeanour Laneway Bar
A laneway bar in Hamilton—worth seeking out if you enjoy discovering tucked-away venues with a bit of character.
View venue4.7(1,093)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Bars Wynnum5. Cedar & Pine Bar
Wynnum's bar offering if you're heading to the eastern bayside suburbs and want a local spot without heading back to the city.
View venue4.8(587)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Bars Teneriffe6. Newstead Brewing Co Airport Taphouse
Based in Teneriffe near the airport precinct, this taphouse is useful if you're in the area or keen on a brewery-focused experience.
View venue4.5(2,262)· Google66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Bars Hamilton7. The Gresham Bar
Another Hamilton bar option, handy if you're exploring that riverside suburb's hospitality scene.
View venue4.6(1,441)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Bars Fortitude Valley8. Savile Row
Located in Fortitude Valley, this gives you a bar choice in Brisbane's historically popular nightlife zone.
View venue4.7(908)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Bars West End9. Cobbler
A West End bar for those wanting to drink in one of Brisbane's creative, bohemian-leaning precincts.
View venue4.7(888)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Bars Hamilton10. Riverland Brisbane
A Hamilton venue, offering another option in that cluster of bars near the river.
View venue4.5(2,572)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Bars Chermside11. Tetto Rooftop Bar
If you want height and views, this rooftop bar in Chermside north of the city is worth considering.
View venue4.6(1,277)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Bars South Bank12. Doo-Bop Bar
South Bank location makes this convenient if you're already in that precinct for cultural venues or riverside walks.
View venue4.6(1,200)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Scratch Bar | 68/100 | 4.8(1,156) | $$ | Paddington | — |
| Winghaus Edward Street | 67/100 | 4.6(2,423) | $$ | Kangaroo Point | — |
| Death and Taxes Brisbane | 67/100 | 4.7(1,424) | $$$ | Paddington | — |
| Miss Demeanour Laneway Bar | 67/100 | 4.7(1,093) | $$ | Hamilton | — |
| Cedar & Pine Bar | 66/100 | 4.8(587) | $$ | Wynnum | — |
| Newstead Brewing Co Airport Taphouse | 66/100 | 4.5(2,262) | — | Teneriffe | — |
| The Gresham Bar | 66/100 | 4.6(1,441) | $$ | Hamilton | — |
| Savile Row | 66/100 | 4.7(908) | $$$ | Fortitude Valley | — |
| Cobbler | 66/100 | 4.7(888) | $$$ | West End | — |
| Riverland Brisbane | 66/100 | 4.5(2,572) | $$ | Hamilton | — |
| Tetto Rooftop Bar | 66/100 | 4.6(1,277) | $$ | Chermside | — |
| Doo-Bop Bar | 66/100 | 4.6(1,200) | $$ | South Bank | — |
Frequently asked questions
What's the best bar in Brisbane according to this list?+
The Scratch Bar in Paddington has the highest Spot Score (68) on this list, though all 12 venues score within a narrow range. Your best choice depends on location, atmosphere, and what kind of drinks or setting you prefer.
Are there bars in different parts of Brisbane here?+
Yes. You'll find options in inner suburbs (Paddington, West End, Fortitude Valley), riverside areas (Kangaroo Point, Hamilton), bayside (Wynnum), north-side (Chermside, Teneriffe), and South Bank. Choosing by suburb is a practical way to narrow down.
Do these venues serve food, or are they drinks-only?+
We don't have confirmed details on food offerings for each venue, so it's worth checking their website or calling ahead if that matters to your visit.
What time do these bars open and close?+
Opening hours vary by venue and day. Contact the bar directly or check their social media for current trading times before you go.
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