There’s a certain kind of magic that happens when inventive small plates meet finely crafted cocktails. These are the venues where menus are designed for grazing, sipping and savouring - whether it’s a perfectly balanced Negroni beside a delicate scallop dish or a bold tequila-laced creation served with a fiery taco. Across the country, a new wave of dining has emerged - laid-back, social and full of flavour - with cocktail bars that double as culinary destinations.
These five standout venues elevate the small plate experience, each bringing their twist to the theme. From smoky Spanish-style snacks to contemporary Australian concoctions, these are the places where the drinks are bold and the plates are anything but ordinary.
Relish on Addison – Shellharbour Village, NSW
Tucked into the charming coastal enclave of Shellharbour Village, Relish on Addison is a refined yet welcoming space that brings a rustic elegance to Modern Australian dining. Set on Addison Street, its interiors are a nod to the region’s coastal warmth - think exposed brick, recycled timber and a healthy dose of greenery, all curated to set the mood for laid-back gatherings. The ever-changing menu draws from local, seasonal produce, creating a space where catching up over good food and better drinks feels entirely natural.
The kitchen takes the small plate concept seriously, showcasing dishes that balance texture and innovation. Grilled Shark Bay half-shell scallops and prawns arrive bathed in a rich chorizo and marjoram butter, bringing a smoky, oceanic richness to the table. Pair it with a bold Australian Shiraz or one of the bar’s citrus-forward cocktails for a vibrant contrast. Whether you’re dropping in for a quick share plate or settling in for the evening, Relish delivers an experience both grounded and exciting.
Bringing a taste of Barcelona to Burwood Road, Tinto is a Hawthorn institution for those craving tapas with a side of atmosphere. This Spanish-inflected gem features a long, sleek bar perfect for perching with a wine in hand, while the small courtyard out back channels European Summer energy, no matter the season. Inside, the vibe is relaxed and friendly, whether you’re swapping stories by the fire or diving into a table of share plates with a group of mates.
The menu is a love letter to Spain, crafted for communal enjoyment. Tapas stars here - think seasoned lamb brain skewers with bright, herbaceous chimichurri or a dish of salmon gravlax punched up with piparra and green olive. For heartier appetites, the braised ox cheek with burnt butter celeriac and Jerusalem artichoke crisps is as bold as any red you'll sip alongside. Yes, the bespoke cocktails are designed to match - balanced, boozy and with a hint of Iberian mischief.
Stray Neighbour – Preston, Vic
Stray Neighbour takes the neighbourhood bar concept and turns it on its head. Located in an old panel beater’s shop on Plenty Road, this Preston spot leans into its industrial roots - concrete floors, glowing pendent lights and moody interiors - creating a space that feels part urban hideaway, part foodie haven. The front beer garden is made for sun-drenched afternoons, while the booth seating inside sets the scene for nights of slow sipping and shared plates.
The kitchen moves with the seasons but always keeps its flavours bold. Start with daily-changing croquettes - crispy on the outside, molten on the inside - before diving into spicy fried chicken with dukkah and smoky BBQ sauce. Mains like a Scotch fillet with creamy mash and pepper sauce keep things hearty, while the cocktail list plays it smart and sharp. Try a Last Word gin cocktail for something herbaceous and punchy, or settle in with a classic Old Fashioned and let the flavours do the talking.
A fiesta of flavour awaits at 187 Cantina, Ballina’s go-to for bold Mexican eats and vibrant cocktail creations. Set on River Street with booth seating, arched mirrors and neon signage lighting the way, this lively venue invites you to let loose. Whether you’re there for Taco Tuesday or just looking for a place to kick back with friends, the atmosphere hums with energy and colour.
The menu doesn’t hold back. Dirty fries, elote with smoky char-grilled corn and punchy Baja-style tacos set the tone - each bite designed to be chased with a sip of Mezcal or a chilli-laced Margarita. The Chuck Norris chicken burrito pulls no punches, packed with juicy grilled meat, guacamole, sour cream and cilantro crema. It’s bold, messy and absolutely moreish. For those who like to finish sweet, the churros with rich chocolate sauce are non-negotiable.
Velveteen Rabbit – Petrie Terrace, Qld
Step through the looking glass and into Velveteen Rabbit, a whimsical, speakeasy-style bar tucked away on Caxton Street in Petrie Terrace. Inside, the 1920s-modern design meets moody lighting and Art Deco finishes, creating a space that feels equal parts nostalgic and fantastical. It’s the kind of place where crafted cocktails and surreal plating come together in a uniquely Brisbane blend of style and substance.
The ever-rotating menu ensures each visit offers something new, but staples like the sourdough doughnut stuffed with slow-cooked pork and aged cheddar never fail to impress. Think smoked beef with whipped beef fat and soured bread or dry-aged Rocky Point fish with Spring tomatoes and preserved flowers. Each dish is designed with precision and flair, made to elevate the cocktail pairing to an art form. It’s a journey - strange, delightful and utterly satisfying.
From coastal villages to inner-city hideouts, these venues show that the right combination of craft cocktails and small plates can transform a simple night out into something memorable. Whether you’re chasing Spanish nostalgia, Mexican heat or local seasonal elegance, these spots prove that dining is best when it’s shared, sipped and savoured. So pull up a stool, order something unexpected and get ready to taste your way through the night - one small plate at a time.
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