Summer and cocktails go hand in hand…steamy nights call for cool drinks alfresco as you watch the sun go down and contemplate another day of sun and fun.
Where is your favourite spot for a Summer cocktail? Here are five of our faves:
Inspired by the seasons, Midnight Bar on Elouera Street in Braddon offers an evolving list of cocktails, wine and beer, complemented by a dynamic menu of simple food, done exceptionally well. Positioned in the heart of Canberra, this hip destination provides a vibrant, inviting backdrop for your next night out; think of a unique design that captures warm afternoon sun, complemented by a modern alfresco lounge.
Indulge in a signature cocktail or two, such as the Earth Bender – carefully crafted with Chivas Regal, Crème de Mure, elderflower liqueur, ginger syrup and ginger and lemongrass tea, stirred, double-strained and garnished with lemongrass, served under a smoking cloche.
Situated along Brisbane’s Eagle Street Pier overlooking the city’s iconic Story Bridge, Bar Pacino is an Italian-inspired bar and function space offering sophisticated yet relaxed dining from day to night. Whether stopping in for coffee, an important meeting, a catch up with the girls or simply to enjoy a delicious meal, there is something to tempt all tastes; order your cocktail of choice from the large bar and take to the riverfront balcony as you ponder a menu of share plates, pizza, pasta and burgers.
Perhaps sip a Best I Ever Had – cucumber Bombay Sapphire gin, St Germain elderflower, lychee, lemon, cucumber and mint - or a Feeling Peachy with Belvedere Vodka, Cointreau, peach, apple and lime, perfect for Summer drinking; best enjoyed with a Taste of Pacino platter, with cured meat, feta stuffed olives, salt and pepper calamari, meatballs, pizza, bread and more.
Bartholomew’s restaurant and bar on King Street in the heart of Newcastle is all about sharing and socialising with food to match this ethos. Housed in the historic old Methodist Mission building, expect spectacular chandeliers, high ceilings and tiered theatre-style balconies; this dining destination is a feast for the eyes with luxe velvet touches adding a dash of extravagance to a space that’s perfect for unwinding with friends and family.
Hate waiting around for your cocktail? At Bartholomew’s, you can order straight from your table to ensure there is no delay, or having to queue at the bar; think outlandish creations like a signature white rum-based Fairy Dust Daiquiri, The Dark Temptress made with Woodford rye, or the loaded to the brim Caramel Bliss Bomb.
Experience a slice of Europe as you watch the world go by at Sax Café and Lounge Bar on Barangaroo Avenue in Barangaroo. Café by day and European lounge bar by night, Sax is a sophisticated space for coffee, meetings and gatherings with refined beverages and food offerings; chill out in surrounds of black and white tiled floors, marble top tables, fresh flowers and live music.
From the signature cocktail list try an Amy Winehouse – Belvedere, Cointreau, Yellow Chartreuse, pineapple, passionfruit, lemon and rosemary – or The Stevie Wonder with Volcan Blanco, Ilegal Mezcal, Campari, grapefruit, chilli and agave, paired with a share plate of King prawns, garlic, chilli and pomegranate shallots.
Head to the home of live music in the heart of Broadbeach for good food, good vibes and good times at Den Devine Restaurant & Music Hall on Victoria Avenue. You will instantly relax in the warm, comfortable indoor and outdoor dining options transporting you to a place far from the bright lights of the Gold Coast; chill out and enjoy an eclectic mix of delicious, homely food while sipping a signature cocktail, beer, wine or spirit.
Soak up the unique atmosphere provided by an array of live music to suit every taste while sipping a choice from the rotating list of exclusive cocktails to go with a lamb and feta pizza with capsicum red onion and a drizzle of tzatziki; or chow down on mains like Louisiana jambalaya with prawns, chicken, kabana sausage, tomato, cayenne pepper and jasmine.
