From hidden laneway gems to rooftop sanctuaries, Australia’s bar scene is brimming with personality, passion and a touch of the unexpected. Step inside these vibrant venues where atmosphere and artistry collide – from moody, velvet-lined lounges to neon-lit hideaways pulsing with laughter and good tunes.
Each destination tells its own story, pouring creativity into every glass and crafting spaces where time slows, spirits lift and conversations flow as freely as the cocktails. Whether you’re chasing rooftop views, playful concoctions or the comfort of dimly lit corners, these bars invite you to sip, savour and stay just a little longer.
Tucked along Little Malop Street in Geelong, Astray Bar is a lively hideaway where dive-bar edge meets creative flair. The vibe is effortlessly cool - think neon lights, playful energy and an ever-changing soundtrack of laughter and good tunes.
Behind the bar, local craft beers and Victorian wines flow freely, while inventive cocktails with cheeky cat-themed names add a touch of fun; perhaps order a Velvety Treat with vodka, Chambord, lemon and vanilla, or Cleo’s Kitty Kiss whisky sour with a red wine float.
Nestled away on Frome Street in Adelaide’s CBD, Luna10 bar exudes sleek, modern sophistication with moody lighting, plush velvet seating and a cosmopolitan vibe perfect for late-night lounging or post-work catch-ups. This stylish haunt blends city chic with warm hospitality, offering a curated menu of cocktails and bites to match.
Tantalise taste buds with the Luna10 Lychee Martini – a delicate fusion of Hidden Trove Acre 96 lychee sipping gin, Dom Benedictine and Vermouth – or the dark, fruity and wild Mr Monty specialty cocktail.
Located below street level on Peel Street in Adelaide’s CBD, Therapy Cocktail Bar beckons with its dimly lit, velvet-lined rooms and gleaming rows of bottles. The air hums with smooth conversation, clinking glass and quietly curated beats, while mixologists craft cocktails that feel both familiar and daring.
Order a Sunday Kind of Love cocktail, inspired by the popular Korean shaved ice dessert, bingsu and the classic feeling of drinking aperitifs on a hot afternoon. This sweet, tart and fizzy strawberry milkshake cocktail is sure to make you feel like you have clocked off for the day.
Found in a tucked-away laneway in the heart of Port Macquarie, Stick Bar offers an experience that feels part hidden speakeasy and part stylish urban grill. This dual-purpose venue delivers a cocktail list that pulls no punches and the kitchen leans into the primal appeal of fire.
The bar team – mixologists calibrated to craft-cocktail trends – create monthly specials such as Beetlejuice, a haunting blend of Czech Absinthe, vodka, cloudy apple and lemon; or order the Nectar Bloom – honey gin, hibiscus and grapefruit.
Perched above Townsville’s bustling streets, Ardo Rooftop is a sleek sanctuary of coastal sophistication. With panoramic views stretching from Magnetic Island to Castle Hill, it blends tropical ease and modern luxury. Lush greenery, golden sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere make it the perfect spot to unwind and take in the horizon.
Sip a Yuzu Boulevard to chill out – Four Pillars yuzu gin, Massenez elderflower liqueur, lemon, crafted elderflower tonic water and mint – or the Mango Dreamer with Bundaberg small batch rum, Malibu coconut rum, mango and lime.
