Best Date Night Venues in Brisbane for Gin Lovers

By: Carolyn Tate, 13 January 2019

There’s something about the juniper and herb concoction that makes gin so sexy and sophisticated. Whether it’s a martini, a rickey or a negroni, the delightfully versatile drink is a superb choice for a date night. The resurgence of gin bars in Brisbane has seen an array of spectacular bars popping up that screams of old Hollywood glamour, romance and a delicious grown up vibe to forget your children and enjoy time with your beloved. Here are some of our favourite gin bars. 

Junk Bar, Ashgrove

Before you even set foot in Junk Bar, you know you’re going to have a great night. With zero signage, to gain access you go past the fish and chip shop to a secret door cloaked in a velvet curtain to the bar within a bar called the Skukum Lounge. Amazing. 

Once inside, delight in the dark, glorious ambience, reminiscent of a Canadian wood cabin. Low couches, heavy curtains, retro lamps and wood panelling all seem a world away from the streets Ashgrove. 

While the bar itself has a limited food selection, you are welcome to bring food from the takeaway shops nearby or even get food delivered straight to the venue. 

For a great night out with an eccentric vibe and something different, Junk Bar is an absolute must. 

Learn more: http://www.thejunkbar.com.au/

Dutch Courage Officers Mess, Fortitude Valley

If you’re new to gin or rather indecisive, Dutch Courage is the place for you. The extremely knowledgeable and highly educated staff will discuss your palate, flavours you enjoy and your star sign to perfectly match you with a gin for your taste. (They may not delve into astrology, but they certainly know their gin). 

This delightfully themed gin bar takes you back to a time of colonial exploration. The theme extends to the décor, menu, gin and sense of adventure that’s prevalent throughout. Whet your whistle on the lower level and see the talented bar staff mix their magic, then mosey on up to the mezzanine level to try the colonial culinary treats. The flavours and décor are an ode to Moroccan and North African tastes. The Ras El Hanout Calamari is absolutely divine. 

Learn more: http://dutchcourage.com.au/

Quincys, The Grange

This bar is named after a famous American architect, so its no surprise that look and feel of the space is purely stunning. The grand building is designed as an underground bar to create an intimate, cosy feel. 

The old bank vault, renovated to an onsite kitchen, whips up tasty snacks and light meals to enjoy with your drinks.

Their impressive gin selection comes with an equally impressive range of tonics. You can also have the talented staff fix you a cocktail with your favourite gin. 

A wonderful atmosphere and a real local community vibe, coupled with incredible food and gin, Quincy’s is a winner.

Learn more: https://quincys.com.au/

Proud Henry Wine Bar & Ginoteca, Fortitude Valley

The love of gin has taken the guys at Proud Henry all over the world to stock over 200 types of the juniper spirit, some of which can’t be found in Australia, in their gorgeous bar. 

Embracing the charm and glamour of the 1920’s, Proud Henry’s has an intimate feel, with small tables, candlelight, chandeliers all to a jazz soundtrack to complete the nostalgic journey. 

You may think a bar in Fortitude Valley would be all hustle and bustle, however, this gin paradise is hidden gem, far away from the noise of reality outside. Proud Henry’s can be your first stop before dinner (they are licensed to sell wine and their wine selection is outstanding) or you can enjoy a cheese or charcuterie board, perfectly matched to your beverage selection. 

Don’t forget to say hi to Henry (you can’t miss him, he’s the peacock!) 

Learn more: https://proudhenry.com.au/

Swill, Bowen Hills

We love everything about the prohibition era that makes enjoying an alcoholic beverage risky. Swill, located in the dining laneway Welcome to Bowen Hills has a dark, sexy ambience inside and a cruisy, laid back feel outside. As soon as you walk in, you’re transported to another time. The friendly staff are mad for their gin and they want you to love it just as much as they do.

Once you choose from over 120 gins, take in every child free moment in the intimate venue. The décor, feel and impressive selection of drinks, give a nod to the romantic era of yesteryear, making this a perfect date night bar.

Learn more: https://www.kingstreetbrisbane.com/retailers/swill

Covent Garden, West End

Named after Convent Garden in London’s West End, this gin bar offers a modern and fresh vibe to the classic drink. Their food menu is just as impressive as their huge selection of over 170 types of gin. 

The massive bar is spread out over two levels in a beautiful colonial building. The whole bar is decked out in a botanical theme, with leafy foliage everywhere. The lush European style garden, twinkling with fairy lit frangipanis is the ideal oasis for a date. 

For a luscious treat, go for the G + high tea for two. A scrumptious spread of sweet, savoury and gin. 

Learn more: https://www.coventgarden.com.au/

Looking for more ideas for places to go for parents?

Have you signed up to our newsletter? Join ellaslist to get the best family and kid-friendly events, venues, classes and things to do NEAR YOU!

Hero image credit: Swill Bowen Hills Facebook Page

Reviews