Awesome bars with epic views in Brisbane City

From rooftops to raised terraces to riverside, The City has more than its fair share of excellent bars with even better views. Grab an ice-cold beer, pop champagne or order a cocktail (or mocktail) and kick back with picture-perfect scenes of the CBD and Story Bridge, and over the Brisbane River to South Bank and Kangaroo Point. Settle into the bar of your choice or bar hop to your heart's content to take full advantage of all that The City has to offer. Cheers, we’ll drink to that.

WET Deck

For views of South Bank and GOMA 

Brisbane is well known for its year-round sunshine and overly relaxed attitude, something you can find even in the heart of The City at a five-star hotel. Contrary to what the name suggests this bar isn’t actually wet (you can leave the swimmers at home), but rather boasts its very own resort-style pool. Pull up a bar stool on the huge riverside terrace and take in unparalleled views of South Bank and the Gallery of Modern Art on the WET Deck. This resort-style oasis in the sky is perfect for an afternoon beverage or late-night drinks featuring DJs and dancing, BYO dance pants.

The Pool Terrace and Bar

For views of Queen Street Mall, historic Treasury Casino

Perched above Queen Street Mall, this unexpectedly located poolside hotel bar has a tropical luxe vibe and an enticing cocktail menu. Even better, walk around the 20-metre infinity pool and sit right near the edge to enjoy skyline views and people-watching in the mall below. All that’s missing is snacks. Just kidding, its snack list is drool worthy and we definitely recommend the thick cut chips. Sit back, relax and soak in all that's good about life in Brisbane.

Riverland

For views of the Brisbane River, Kangaroo Point and Story Bridge

Since anywhere with a viewpoint tends to attract chic, high-end bars, this industrial beer garden and street food kitchen is a breath of fresh air. Two fitted-out 40ft shipping containers sit at the centre of this open-air bar, with 16 tap beers and ciders and a range of Australian wines. Pair your beverage with a plate from one of the five street food market stalls sitting at one end serving up dishes from Asia to Africa to Europe to South America, and find a seat by the panoramic edge.

Madame Wu

For views of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge

If your day calls for generously sized share plates with a stunning backdrop, then book a table at Madame Wu. This sprawling modern Asian bar and restaurant has a deck with panoramic views of the Brisbane River, Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point and Brisbane CBD skyline and a retractable roof. Asian flavours go beyond the food menu, with lime, ginger and chilli making it into cocktails too.

Bar Pacino

For views of Story Bridge, Brisbane River and Kangaroo Point

Bar Pacino takes the food platter trend and adds an Italian twist and killer riverside views. Pop champagne and tuck into the best antipasto, cheese or charcuterie boards we’ve ever seen at this sophisticated yet relaxed bar. Yes, we are drooling. Hanging out over the river, it offers some of the best – if not the best – bridge views in The City.

Sixteen Antlers

For views of Brisbane City Hall, King George Square and the CBD

This sky-high rooftop bar sits on the 16th floor in the middle of The City. It’s a chic rooftop garden with lounges, craft beer, boutique wine and signature cocktails that make it popular with the after-work crowd. Pair your drink with a cheese board to share or tapas plates, and watch the big clock strike midnight.

Blackbird Bar and Grill

For views of Story Bridge, Brisbane River and Kangaroo Point

This iconic riverside venue combines tasty drinks with sweeping Story Bridge views. This opulent location will have you feeling like you’re on the set of The Great Gatsby, we are talking luxe decor and plush seating. It provides perfect vibes for after work drinks or visit on a Saturday night and hit the dance floor.

Friday’s Riverside

For views of Story Bridge and Brisbane River

Friday’s Riverside might just provide some of the best waterfront drinks (and dining) in Brisbane. The terrace features 180-degree views of the Brisbane River and the Story Bridge and the indoor dance floor is sure to have you grooving. This venue has an extensive wine list and can whip up any cocktail you can think of.

Will & Flow

For views of Brisbane River

One of Brisbane’s overwater venues, you’ll be served up stunning riverfront views and beverages that will take you from morning to night. Enjoy the early light with a juice or coffee or soak in the sunset with craft beers, vibrant cocktails and delicious snacks.

Bavarian Bier Cafe

For views of Story Bridge and Brisbane River

The taste of Europe has come all the way to The City at the Bavarian Bier Cafe. You can sip on German beers and be served traditional dishes such as pork knuckles, schnitzels and sausages all while taking in the spectacular views.

Jimmy’s on the Mall

For views of Queen Street Mall

Jimmy’s on the Mall is an iconic Brisbane establishment where people watching is unmatched by anything else you’ll experience in The City. Situated in the middle of the Queen Street Mall, right among the hustle and bustle of one of Australia’s busiest pedestrian malls. It is open 24/7 making it the perfect spot to take you from dusk to dawn and back again.