Caxton Street & the Barracks:
14 Things to do            

18 JANUARY 2023

As one of Brisbane's original lifestyle and entertainment precincts, Caxton Street and The Barracks continues to be the epicentre of lively post-game celebrations as well as home to fine dining restaurants, boutique bars and independent cinema. If you're looking for a fun night out, impressive food or even some daytime entertainment, Caxton Street and The Barracks has all the ingredients. Here’s 14 top things to do at Caxton Street and The Barracks.

A mother and her son sitting and talking in the stadium.
Suncorp Stadium, Milton

1. Catch a match at Suncorp Stadium

Previously known as Lang Park, Suncorp Stadium plays host to an array of sport and entertainment annually from State of Origin and rugby internationals to music concerts and soccer matches. For a true game day experience, be sure to visit Caxton Street and The Barracks for a pre- and post-game bevvy and meal from a huge variety of pubs, bars, restaurants and eateries.

2. Sip on a signature whisky apple at Lefty's

For lovers of live music and Americana, Lefty's Music Hall is the place to be. This local favourite has musical entertainment every night, a secret bar through a fire escape, hearty burgers and a signature whisky apple cocktail that make this Caxton Street establishment an absolute must-visit.

3. Swim at the historic Ithaca Baths

Establishes as a man-made waterhole in the early 1900s, Ithaca Pool is now a beautiful 25m heated, outdoor saltwater swimming pool nestled among fig trees. There's lots of shade, chairs, grass and even a café so you could easily spend an entire day here.

4. Elevate your movie date night environment

Movies at the Palace Barracks cinemas are simply better. The seats are comfier, the ice-cream is homemade, and the popcorn is sprinkled in olive oil instead of butter. Plus, you'll also enjoy the diverse film selection, including the latest movies and world cinema, curated wine selection and cheese platters. Movie dates will never be the same.

5. Sample Spanish tapas and wine at Moda

Inspired by head chef Javier Codina's Spanish heritage, Moda restaurant in The Barracks serves an exquisite range of tapas and larger Iberian-inspired meals using fresh local produce. Order the Moda's Tapas Banquet for a chef's kiss of a selection of six delectable share plates.

 

6. Get among the action

The Lord Alfred is more than 150 years old and a real Brisbane institution. With six onsite bars, including the Verandah Bar for prime people-watching on Caxton Street and a grill restaurant, there's always something happening here.

7. Indulge in home-style treats

With 45-plus years in the business, Pamela's Pantry certainly know how to bake the goods. Pop in for flaky pies, fresh salads, moreish pasta and a range of sweet treats ready to fill that dessert-sized hole in your tummy. Best of all, everything is made with quality ingredients and a whole lot of love.

8. Experience the ultimate Queensland steak

Skip the salad and try one of Brisbane's best steaks at Black Hide Steakhouse. The menu is a carnivore's dream with every cut and style you could desire however, there's also a vegan a la carte menu for the plant-based eaters in your party.

9. Gorge yourself on gorgeous seafood

Queensland is famed for its seafood and the sought-after Moreton Bay bug is a Brisbane delicacy. Experience it at Brisbane institution Gambaro Seafood Restaurant with house specialties such as mud crabs, crayfish, lobster and oysters.

10. Enjoy the suite life

The Gambaro hospitality empire also includes a stunning boutique hotel, aptly named the Gambaro Hotel. Every inch of the hotel whispers luxury and there's no better way to experience all that the precinct has to offer than with a stay at Gambaro Hotel.

11. Linger over a long lunch

One of Brisbane's best long lunch locations is Libertine, a French Vietnamese eatery with plates designed to share. The outdoor area is lush with greenery and comfy seating and the atmospheric indoor bar reflects the considered wine and cocktail offerings.

12. Get crafty with local brews

Brewski has a huge selection of craft beer – we're talking more than 600 bottles and cans from microbreweries in Brisbane and beyond and an impressive regularly refreshed lineup of brews on tap from local, national and international makers. You're sure to find a frothy soulmate here.

13. Dance ‘til dawn at the Caxton

The Caxton Hotel has a great steak restaurant, a huge variety of beer on tap and throws a top State of Origin carpark party. But its biggest drawcard is the dancefloor on Friday and Saturday nights. There is no better place to dance like no one's watching, trust us on this one.

14. Finish your night with a full tummy

Caxton Street's venues know their patrons are often creatures of the night and provide late-night eats accordingly. There's the classic greaser, Harry's Fine Foods on Petrie Terrace, and kebab and pizza shops on Caxton Street. The folks at Lefty's also keep the kitchen open late (sometimes ‘til 2am) to make sure you never leave this fine establishment hungry.

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