South Bank:
Best Bars

16 JUNE 2025

Sip the afternoon away at one of South Bank’s buzzing bars or pubs. From classic and iconic style pubs to stylish rooftop cocktail bars, there’s always a lively atmosphere and the perfect drink waiting for you. Settle in for sunset views, live music or a long catch-up with friends in one of South Banks vibrant riverside haunts.

The Charming Squire

Beer infused cocktails, tasting paddles, wine on tap and the James Squire range at its best! The Charming Squire is home to both the Embers restaurant and Brewhouse, where you can choose if you would prefer to fine dine or enjoy a classic pub meal, all in one inviting space.

The Plough Inn

If you’re looking for a classic pub experience, you can’t go past The Plough Inn, one of Brisbane’s most iconic venues. Showcasing local musical talent every day, featuring your favourite pub food and pouring icy cold beers, it’s the perfect spot to watch the big sporting showdowns, or just enjoy a catch up with your mates.

Lina Rooftop Bar

Sip cocktails by the pool at Lina Rooftop Bar, a French Riveria-inspired restaurant and bar that looks out across all of South Bank. The perfect spot for unset cocktails, evenings under the stars or a boogie in the pool as the DJ plays all afternoon long.

The Terrace

 Perched atop the stunning Emporium Hotel, The Terrace rooftop bar offers sweeping views of Brisbane, plush furnishings, and a delicious menu paired with refreshing subtropical-inspired drinks. Wine, dine and unwind as the sun sets over the city skyline.

Barbossa

Embark on a Carribean adventure at Barbossa where the atmosphere to the fit out is vibrant and tropical. From the Caribbean inspired cocktails and Australian influenced plates, this family-run bar is guaranteed to offer a good time.

Tippler's Tap

Watch the big sporting games live, drink craft beer and share pub food amongst friends at Tippler’s Tap. This unique bar allows you to pour your pint of choice with its ‘pour your own’ system that offers seasonally rotating beers, ales and ciders.

Bourbon Street

Named after New Orleans’ iconic French quarter, Bourbon Street serves up bold Louisiana Creole-inspired plates packed with flavour. You can also find a traditional and unique cocktail creations that feature distinctive flavours that celebrate the spirit of the South.

Soleil Pool Bar

Cocktails, poolside vibes and relaxing in the sun, what more could you want? If this sounds like your ideal afternoon, head to the open-air Soleil Pool Bar, serving up bespoke cocktails that you can enjoy while soaking up the sun.

Fritzenberger

Just as the name suggests, Fritzenberger is a burger and frites bar that is on a mission to make sure the classics are never forgotten. Burgers made with local ingredients and fries made with a house-made seasoning are perfectly paired with refreshing cold beer poured to your liking.

The Sangria Bar

Tucked beside Olé Restaurant, is the perfect spot for tapas, sangria and Latina beats. Sip your way through a colourful selection of sangrias, Spanish beers, and creative cocktails that pair perfectly with the delicious share plates in a lively, laidback setting.

Southbank Beer Garden

Perfectly situated for you to enjoy fantastic views of the Brisbane River, this waterfront beer garden offers a lively atmosphere and of course, great beer. Enjoy live music, wood-fired pizzas and craft beers as the sun goes down and you watch Brisbane City come to life.

Southbeach

Right next to Southbank Beer Garden is South Beach, inspired by a holiday beach shack, this cocktail bar brings colourful and flavourful combinations to both the drinks, food and design ensuring a vibrant atmosphere.

The Ship Inn

Constructed in 1864, The Ship Inn bar and beer garden owns up to its reputation - traditional, a little bit rowdy and a lamb lovers paradise. The gastro pub is the place to go if you are looking for a local classic that may be around forever.

James Street Fortitude Valley Restaurant Dining