Brisbane, the vibrant capital of Queensland, is known for its lively nightlife and diverse entertainment options. Whether you’re a local or a traveler looking to experience the city’s buzzing scene, Brisbane offers an array of bars and nightclubs to suit every taste. From sophisticated cocktail lounges to energetic nightclubs, here’s a guide to the best places to go out in Brisbane.
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Top Areas to Go Out
Whether you’re after a wild night out or a more relaxed evening with friends, the boroughs of Brisbane have something for everyone. Brisbane’s nightlife is spread across various neighborhoods, including Fortitude Valley, the CBD, and South Bank. Explore different areas to experience the city’s diverse entertainment scene:
- The CBD (Central Business District) is the beating heart of the city and a mix between noise, business and tourism. This is the best area for after-work drinks.
- Southbank, located on the south shore, is pretty chill and cultural. This area offers a great choice of restaurants.
- Fortitude Valley is ‘the place to be’ if you want to enjoy the festivities that “Brissy” has to offer. This area is mostly frequented by students and partygoers. A large number of bars and clubs await you there.
- West End is the trendy and calm district. With small organic markets and stylish bars, you will find a more mature and cosmopolitan population here.
🍺 Average Drink Prices in 2025
- Schooner (425 ml local beer): ~AU $6–10 in casual pubs; craft or trendy bars ~AU $12–15+
- Pint (570 ml): AU $10–14 mid-range, AU $15–20+ at upscale venues.
- Cocktails:
- Standard ones: AU $18–24
- Premium or aged-spirit cocktails (e.g., at Stan’s Lounge): AU $100–150
Best Restaurants
CBD
The Central Business District is where you’ll find the main shopping centres and offices. Due to the influx of city workers, there are many food courts in the city. The food courts are essentially a full floor in a shopping centre where there is a multitude of restaurants such as fast food places, sandwich shops, salads, Asian and Mexican options. In particular, if in the CBD try the Myer Center or 400 Food.
South Bank
South Bank is a relaxed district of Brisbane with the famous lagoon, which has a great view of the city. Just behind this little corner of paradise is a large shopping street with various restaurants – most with an open terrace. It is an excellent area for an outing with friends, colleagues or family. If you want to get into the Australian spirit, there are also barbecues available for free along the river.
West End – New Farm
A little further from CBD, the West End and New Farm areas are other trendy areas of the city with many restaurants at reasonable prices.
Here are the most popular restaurant chains that you will likely find in each neighbourhood:
- Grill’d: Home of the burger in Australia.
- Guzman y Gomez :Looking for a Mexican meal? This is the address you need!
- Zeus Street Greek: A must-try, especially the famous pita.
- Nando’s: A little more refined than fast food, Nando’s serves great chicken.
- Vapiano: The home of Italian specialties.
Best Bars in Brisbane
Fortitude Valley & CBD
- Bar Miette (riverfront, Queen St): inventive cocktails & terrace dining
- Milquetoast (laneway): British-influenced wine & cocktail bar, open late
- Goros (Warner Lane): Japanese izakaya-style cocktails, karaoke & sake bomb nights
- Trove, Cicada Blu, Frog’s Hollow Saloon, Club Felix, Savile Row, Pawn & Co — all top picks for drinks, atmosphere, and style.
South Brisbane / Howard Smith Wharves
- Home to Stan’s Lounge, B‑SIDE, Cicada Blu, plus cultural events during NRL Magic Round & beyond.
Best nightclubs in Brisbane
When it comes to nightclubs, Brisbane has something for everyone, but the number one neighbourhood you need to know about is Fortitude Valley. It is THE hip neighbourhood for nightlife, where you’ll find all the coolest bars and clubs. Here are some great spots you should know about.
Prohibition
206 Wicham Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane 4006
Step back in time at Prohibition, a 1920s-themed nightclub located in Fortitude Valley. The club’s vintage decor, live swing bands, and top DJs create a unique and immersive experience. Prohibition offers three distinct areas: the Main Room for high-energy dance music, the Blind Tiger Speakeasy for a more intimate setting, and the Wall Street Bar for a relaxed lounge atmosphere. Entry is free during the week and costs $10 on weekends (although it’s definitely worth it!)
The MET
McWhirter’s Farmers Market, T28 Wickham St &, Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
One of Brisbane’s largest and most popular nightclubs, The Met is known for its energetic atmosphere and top-notch DJ performances. The club features multiple levels, each with its own distinct vibe and music style, ranging from EDM and house to hip-hop and R&B. With its state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, The Met promises an unforgettable night of dancing and entertainment.
The Family
8 McLachlan St, Fortitude Valley
Renowned for its electrifying parties and world-class DJs, The Family is a staple of Brisbane’s nightlife scene. The multi-level venue boasts impressive light shows, booming sound systems, and various dance floors catering to different music genres. The Family’s vibrant and inclusive environment ensures a memorable night out for all.
Birdees
608 Ann St, Fortitude Valley
A favorite among students and backpackers, Birdees offers a fun and lively atmosphere with a variety of entertainment options. The club features multiple bars, a rooftop beer garden, and a pool, making it a versatile venue for a night out. With themed nights, live music, and DJs spinning the latest hits, Birdees guarantees a great time.
Practical Tips for Enjoying the Night
Opening Hours & Scene Overview
- Most bars in Fortitude Valley, CBD, and South Brisbane open from 4 pm and close around midnight, with some staying open later on weekends.
- Howard Smith Wharves precinct remains vibrant, with riverside venues like Stan’s Lounge, Cicada Blu, and Trove open into late night.
- Popular new openings in 2025 include Bar Miette, Milquetoast, Goros, Trove, Pawn & Co, and Cicada Blu offering varying styles from rooftop vibes to speakeasies.
Practical Tips
- Find happy hour deals: Many bars run specials from 4–6 pm, reducing beer and cocktail prices by up to 30%.
- East Australia’s alcohol rules & price hikes: expect higher pub prices due to tax increases in February 2025—about AU $61.57 per L excise on beer.
- Public transport: The train to Fortitude Valley runs until midnight; rideshare is reliable. Pre-book a ride on busy nights.
- Safety: Stick to well-lit areas; valleys fill by 8 pm; don’t walk alone back to suburbs late.
- Dress codes: Upscale venues may enforce smart-casual—Valley pubs are more relaxed.
- Event nights: At places like Goros expect themed nights, karaoke, DJs—book early often.
- Take your passport or your driver’s license with you. Australia is very strict on ID and you will usually have to show yours entering nightclubs, bars etc.
🍹 Get your RSA in Australia (with special discounts!)
Pay less for your RSA course (Responsible Service of Alcohol). With this certificate, you are allowed to work in all places where alcohol is served or sold.
