Business travel can be demanding. Long days of meetings and negotiations can leave you feeling drained. That’s why unwinding and recharging after a long day is crucial. Brisbane, with its vibrant bar scene, offers the perfect escape for business travellers seeking relaxation and networking opportunities.
Brisbane’s diverse and thriving bar scene has something for every taste, from sophisticated cocktail bars perfect for a client meeting to lively pubs ideal for watching the game. This guide explores some of the best bars in Brisbane for business travellers, offering a mix of atmospheres for every need.
Criteria for the Best Business Traveller Bars
When choosing the right spot to relax or network, these factors matter most:
- Professional Atmosphere: A quiet, subdued ambience is crucial for comfortable conversation. Look for plush seating and discreet, attentive service.
- Convenient Location: Bars should be ideally located near hotels and business districts, such as the Brisbane CBD, South Bank, and Fortitude Valley.
- Quality Food & Drink: A diverse menu of high-quality food and an extensive wine or cocktail list are essential.
- Accessibility: Proximity to public transport and easy access for rideshare services are a must for those without a car.
Stylish Cocktail Bars in Brisbane
For those who appreciate craftsmanship and a sophisticated setting, these cocktail bars are the perfect choice.
1. Death and Taxes
Tucked away in Brisbane’s oldest laneway, Burnett Lane, Death and Taxes is an award-winning bar with a unique, old-world ambience. Known for its extensive cocktail menu and a collection of over a thousand spirits, this is a top choice for a refined after-work drink.
- Speciality: Classic and creative cocktails, an impressive selection of whisky and rum.
- Location: Burnett Lane, Brisbane City. A short walk from the main CBD hotels.
2. Dr. Gimlette
Dr. Gimlette, named after the British surgeon who created the famous cocktail, is a stylish bar located in one of Brisbane’s oldest buildings. It features a stunning 9-metre marble bar and Italian leather booths. A highlight is their “Martini Cart,” where expert bartenders craft your bespoke drink tableside, adding a theatrical touch to your evening.
- Speciality: Bespoke martinis and creative cocktails.
- Location: 109 Edward St, Brisbane City.
3. The Gresham
Housed in a historic heritage-listed building, The Gresham is a multi-award-winning institution renowned for its timeless elegance and focus on premium spirits. This is the place to be for whisky connoisseurs, offering one of the city’s most impressive selections.
- Speciality: Premium spirits, especially whisky, and classic cocktails.
- Location: 308 Queen St, Brisbane City.
4. Fiume Rooftop Bar
Located atop the Crystalbrook Vincent Hotel, Fiume offers a sophisticated atmosphere with stunning panoramic views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge. It’s the perfect spot to unwind while enjoying creative cocktails and delicious Italian-inspired share plates.
- Speciality: Creative cocktails and Italian-inspired dishes.
- Location: Level 3, Crystalbrook Vincent Hotel, Howard Smith Wharves.
Top-Rated Sports Bars in Brisbane
For a more relaxed atmosphere and a chance to catch up on the latest game, these sports bars are ideal.
1. Winghaus
With multiple locations, including one on Edward Street, Winghaus is a bustling sports bar that’s a favourite for live games. It boasts 40 beers on tap and a menu of American pub fare, with their signature chicken wings being the star of the show.
- Speciality: Live sports, craft beer, and a wide variety of chicken wings.
- Location: 1/144 Edward St, Brisbane City.
2. Fat Angel Sports Bar and Grill
Tucked away in Eagle Lane, Fat Angel offers a lively American-style atmosphere with plenty of TVs to catch a game. The menu features classic American pub food, from cheesy loaded nachos to their signature “Fat Angel Burger” a true feast in itself.
- Speciality: American pub fare, burgers, and a wide drink selection.
- Location: Eagle Lane, Brisbane City.
Brisbane’s Top Wine Bars
For those who prefer a fine drop of wine, these bars offer a curated selection in a relaxed setting.
1. Maeve Wine Bar
Hidden behind the copper doors of a heritage-listed building in South Brisbane, Maeve offers a stylish and intimate setting. The wine list leans towards a curated selection of European and Australian wines from smaller, independent producers, complemented by a delicious menu of small, seasonally-driven plates.
- Speciality: Curated European and Australian wines and small plates.
- Location: 39 Melbourne St, South Brisbane.
2. Wineology
Wineology offers a unique and interactive wine-tasting experience. Using state-of-the-art dispensers, you can pour your own wine and sample up to 96 different Australian and international drops. It’s a great way to discover new wines at your own pace while enjoying tapas and charcuterie.
- Speciality: Self-serve wine dispensers and tapas.
- Location: Multiple locations in Brisbane.
Practical Tips for Business Travellers in Brisbane
- Getting Around: Brisbane has an efficient public transport system. Consider purchasing a TransLink go card for travel on buses, trains, and ferries. The free City Loop bus service is a great way to get around the CBD on weekdays.
- Rideshare & Taxis: For getting home after a night out, rideshare apps like Uber and DiDi are readily available, as are traditional taxi services.
- Staying Connected: Most business-friendly bars offer free Wi-Fi and access to power outlets. It’s always a good idea to pack a portable power bank for peace of mind.
Explore Brisbane with Alpha Car Hire
While a hire car is not essential for navigating the CBD, it offers invaluable flexibility for business travellers staying outside the city centre or wanting to explore beyond their meetings.
- Flexibility: A rental car gives you the freedom to travel between different business and entertainment districts at your own pace.
- Convenience: For a longer trip, you can easily drive from the city to the Sunshine Coast or the Gold Coast for a weekend break.
A responsible reminder: If you plan on enjoying Brisbane’s vibrant bar scene, please do not drink and drive. A rental car is best used to explore the city during the day, with rideshare services as your preferred method of transport at night.
Ready to get your Brisbane car hire? Alpha Car Hire offers a wide range of rental vehicles to suit your needs, with a convenient shuttle bus available at the airport. You can find more information and book your vehicle here.
