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Brisbane's Secret Little Bars

Updated: Jun 22, 2026

Recent years have seen an explosion of small bars in the Brisbane drinking scene, with cosy little dens, subterranean lounges and dive bars popping up everywhere.

While some are in prominent places, there are those that have no signs and some that are found only by word of mouth.

Here are 12 of Brisbane's top secret little bars that you possibly didn't know existed, until now:

The Tailors

A mysterious speakeasy style bar hidden behind Rodrigo & Co tailors shop in the historic antique precinct

1st Edition

A pocket-sized Marvel comic-book inspired bar hidden away off California Lane

Bar Brutus

This tiny 8-seater laneway bar brings an elegant touch of Italy to Fish Lane in South Brisbane

+81 Aizome Bar

Bartenders standing behind bar in +81 Aziome Bar

+81 Aizome Bar is a glamorous 10-seater Japanese bar unlike anything else to be found in Brisbane, hidden behind blue curtains

Dark Red Wine Bar

A convivial pocket-sized boutique wine bar tucked away in Fortitude Valley's Bakery Lane

Arcade Wine

An elegant little Italian wine lounge tucked away inside a bottle shop in a retro Ashgrove arcade

Maker

Maker is a chic and intimate hole-in-the-wall bar reminiscent of those found in Barcelona’s back alleys, tucked away in Fish Lane

Nok Nok BNE

A tiny elegant tropical-themed bar tucked away behind an arched green door with brass knocker

Before + After

A secret subterranean Amaro and cocktail bar found down an historic carriageway and located in the basement

Dark Blue

Dark Blue is a little hidden treasure of a wine and cocktail bar nestled within an historic brick building on the corner of Winn Lane

Jolly Roger

Jolly Roger is Fortitude Valley's pirate punk bar specializing in rum, craft beer, loud music and vintage cartoons

Fountainhead Winehouse

Fountainhead Winehouse is a stunning design-led wine room, bringing together three experiences under one roof

Better Off Red

Better Off Red blends bold flavours, fine wine and unforgettable entertainment

Aug 16

Three Food Memories – Live

Brisbane audiences are invited to experience the connection between memory and food

Aug 16

The Gospel According to Paul

The critically-acclaimed one-hander play returns to QPAC's Playhouse

Aug 18-23

There’s nothing like a Dame

Experience an unforgettable evening of soaring vocals and timeless classics

Aug 20-22

The Music And Life of Barbra Streisand

Celebrate the timeless music of Barbra Streisand in a dazzling new concert event starring Melinda Schneider.

Aug 21

Science Night - Amphibians with Dr Ian Brennan

Combine Friday night drinks with a fascinating journey into the world of frogs

Aug 21

ARCO - Bohemian Dreams Tour

Experience the magic of timeless classical masterpieces with ARCO

Aug 21

Brisbane Ukrainian Festival 2026

Ukrainian Festival Brisbane is back with Ukrainian food, music, and community spirit in August.

Aug 22

BBX2026 LEGO® Fan Expo

BBX2026 brings Brisbane's biggest LEGO® fan event back this August

Aug 22 - 23

A GILBERT & SULLIVAN CONCERT EVENT

Experience the wit, elegance and enduring brilliance of Gilbert & Sullivan as Prospero Arts presents Gilbert & Sullivan: A Soirée of Song & Satire at QPAC

A GILBERT & SULLIVAN CONCERT EVENT

MUST DO

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers returns this spring with stunning blooms, delicious food and endless family fun

Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers

THIS WEEKEND

Top Things to Do Aug 14-16

From the return of NIGHT FEAST and Tangalooma whale watching to country star Max Jackson live at the races and a jaw-dropping vintage car collection display

This Weekend Aug 7-9

Brisbane Festival - Festival Village South Bank

COMING UP

What's on in September in & near Brisbane

From Brisbane Festival taking over the city to the magical Jim Henson blockbuster at QAGOMA and Laidley Spring Festival, the best things to do in and around Brisbane in September:

What's on in September 2026

MUST DO FAMILY HOLIDAY

Big4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Create magical family memories on the Gold Coast with a stay packed full of adventure, including daily breakfast, six fun-filled kids' activities and easy access to the region's biggest theme parks!

BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

BEST OF BRISBANE

50+ Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Looking for the best restaurants in Brisbane? Then check out this guide for the must-do dining experiences from the city to the suburbs

Best Restaurants in Brisbane

Best Of Brisbane

Brisbane's Best 50 Bars

Whether you're after breezy drinks by the river, a stiff whiskey in an underground bar, a cosy laneway hideaway or a rooftop with views, here's 50 of Brisbane's best bars

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Experience the wit, elegance and enduring brilliance of Gilbert & Sullivan