Grabbing a few cocktails with friends in a fun environment can be a great way to enjoy a night out. Whether you're looking for a classy establishment or something more relaxed, there are many great places in Canberra that serve quality cocktails in a great environment. So we have put together a list of some of the best cocktail bars in Canberra to help you enjoy your next night out.
Skip to the list of Canberra's best cocktail bars
- Alcove
- Bar Beirut
- Bar Rochford
- Blackbird
- High Jinks
- Hippo Co
- Molly
- Tipsy Bull
- Volstead Repeal
- White Rabbit
What makes a great cocktail bar?
A great cocktail bar is a perfect place to unwind after a long day or week. Whether you’re looking for a classic Martini or a creative new concoction, the best bars will have something to suit your taste.
And of course, it’s not just about the drinks – the atmosphere is also important. A good cocktail bar will have a relaxed and inviting vibe, with plenty of comfortable seating, nice décor, good music and a lively atmosphere.
Staff at the bar should be friendly and have a good knowledge about the cocktails they serve. The service should also be efficient as you don't want to be waiting too long for your drinks. You can expect to pay quite a bit for a cocktail, so the best bars will make sure you get what you pay for with a quality drink that tastes great.
If you’re looking for a truly memorable experience, then seek out a bar that takes its cocktails seriously, and you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot to enjoy a drink or two.
What are the most popular cocktails?
There are countless cocktails that have achieved popularity over the years, but there are a few that stand out as classics. The Margarita is a refreshing blend of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec that has been a favorite since it was first created in the 1940s.
The Daiquiri is another timeless concoction, made with rum, lime juice, and sugar.
For something a little sweeter, the Piña Colada contains rum, pineapple juice, and cream of coconut. And of course, no list of popular cocktails would be complete without the Bloody Mary, a mix of vodka, tomato juice, spices, and Worcestershire sauce.
These cocktails have stood the test of time and remain beloved by drinkers all over the world.
The best cocktail bars in Canberra 2024
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Bar Beirut
Bar Beirut is a great place for Canberrans to spend a night, with the bar serving up great food, drinks, music and plenty of fun right into the early morning.
An incredible fusion between Middle Eastern fun and Parisian perfection, the skilled staff at Bar Beirut create an incredible range of delicious cocktails and plates of food with big, bold and punchy flavours you are sure to love.
Alcove
Alcove is the ultimate foodie experience in Canberra, and it’s a gem hidden in Braddon’s coolest apartment building.
It is a pairing menu establishment. Restaurateurs and two halves of a creative mind, Chef Kenny and Mixologist Ricky, work side by side to create a menu of perfect pairs, inspired by world destinations.
Rounding out the team, Will, the third owner, designed Alcove to have fewer tables and an open concept to better accommodate for fine cocktails and the height of customer service.
Bar Rochford
Hidden away in the iconic Melbourne Building in the city, Bar Rochford is a wine and cocktail bar that is all about fine food, great drinks and good music.
The food and wine list is constantly changing, with local and seasonal produce determining what you will find on the menu.
Elie Ibrahim wrote this review on Google; “A gorgeous hidden upstairs bar in the middle of Canberra. Cocktails were divine, the food was full of flavour, and so freshly cooked. We had some unusual dishes here, such as the fried mash potato balls with miso sauce, and the wagyu beef tongue. Service was grand!”
High Jinks
High Jinks has quickly become one of Canberra’s best bars, offering a range of delicious drinks along with great service and a lively atmosphere.
They have plenty of classic and creative cocktails to try along with quality whisky, refreshing beers, local wines and plenty of room to enjoy them.
Volstead Repeal
Volstead Repeal is a warm and intimate venue ideally located in the bustling suburb of Braddon.
Their goal is to provide a fun and welcoming atmosphere for customers to enjoy flavoursome food, exceptional drinks and quality whisky.
The New York inspired bar has a selection of over 300 whiskies to enjoy as well as a range of cocktails poured by their expert bartender.
White Rabbit
White Rabbit Cocktail Room is a hidden gem in the heart of Canberra, offering a great experience for those with young hearts and curious minds.
They have a range of unique, delicious cocktails inspired by Alice in Wonderland with a beautiful interior as well.
Hippo Co
Ideally located in the heart of Canberra, Hippo Co love their whiskies, cocktails and great banter.
The interior creates have a lovely, intimate atmosphere with plenty of live music to keep the vibe high. They have a great range of delicious cocktails and are the place to go for whiskey lovers.
Blackbird
Located in the Sydney Building in the heart of Canberra, Blackbird is an intimate cocktail bar offering live music, retro tunes, great drinks and fantastic pizzas.
Their team of fun-loving, talented professionals serve up an extensive range of cocktails, spirits, wine and beer, as well as a host of entertainment to enjoy a night out.
Molly
Molly is a lovely hidden bar located in the Civic area, with a discreet wooden door leading you into speakeasy bar with old fashioned service in a authentic 1920’s setting.
The atmosphere is fantastic inside and they have a team of helpful bartenders that will create delicious drinks for you to enjoy.
Local guide Jae Hwa Park wrote this five star review on Google; “The best cocktail bar in town with varieties of cocktails, love the ambience and knowledgable staff. Not sure what you are after, just ask the bartender and they will be able to recommend something that suits your palate.”
Tipsy Bull
Tipsy Bull are all about good times, great food and tasty drinks.
Enjoy delicious, seasonal meals designed to share amongst friends with plenty of gluten free and vegan options. They serve classic cocktails with a tipsy twist along with an extensive wine list and craft beers. Tipsy Bull is the place to go for gin lovers with over 300 gin varieties to sample and new ones joining their shelves evert week.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get food at a cocktail bar?
Most cocktail bars will have some food options for you to enjoy, but not all will. You can check online whether the bar offers food or even call up and ask.
Can I get non-alcoholic cocktails?
Yes, there are many different non-alcoholic cocktails for those wanting to enjoy a refreshing drink without the alcohol. They are called mocktails, short for ‘mock cocktails’, and most bars will have plenty of delicious options to have.
What are the most popular cocktails?
The enjoyment of a cocktail will come down to each person’s individual taste but there are a few that have stood the test of time as the most iconic cocktails. These include the Margarita, Daiquiri, Cosmopolitan, Manhattan, Gimlet, Negroni, Old Fashioned, Espresso Martini and Mimosa.
Can I host private events or parties at a cocktail bar?
Many cocktail bars offer private event spaces or can accommodate group reservations for special occasions or private parties. These spaces may have a dedicated bartender and customisable drink menus to suit the event. It’s best to contact the cocktail bar directly to inquire about their event hosting options and any associated requirements or fees.
Is there a dress code at cocktail bars?
Dress codes can vary from one cocktail bar to another. Some cocktail bars may have specific dress requirements, such as smart casual or business casual, while others may have a more relaxed atmosphere that allows for casual attire. It’s recommended to check with the cocktail bar in advance or visit their website to inquire about any dress code policies.
