Shaman

Shaman is a secret old world basement bar paying homage to Carlos Santana, found tucked away underneath the heritage-listed century old warehouse that was once home to Metro Arts in Brisbane CBD.

Tricky to find until you know how, Shaman can be reached via the laneway to the left of the building, where at the end to the right, alongside the red Queen Gin School is a staircase leading underground and from here there is a sign saying Shaman and a wooden entry door.

Inspired by the cool Brisbane bars of the 1980s, the historic brick walls are adorned with black and white framed photos, whilst lighting is provided by leadlight lamps and red tealight candles, while carpet and Turkish rugs help ensure good acoustics. 

Seating is mostly cabaret-style, with a scattering of dark wooden tables and chairs as well as a couple of old church pews along the walls.

In perfect contrast to the ambient darkened lounge area, the bright red bar is a beacon of light, featuring gleaming gold juicers on the counter to ensure all citrus is freshly juiced before being added to the cocktails (the only bar in Brisbane who does this). 

The drinks are as carefully curated as the music, with a range of about 50 tequilas, 100 rums and a small selection of South American wines whilst just one beer is available - Estrella, which is stored old school fashion, in a crate.

As for the cocktails, they fall into 3 categories - 'Always on' (Daiquiri, Margarita & Old-Fashioned). 'Sometimes On' and the retro 'Something Silly' (Grasshopper, Fluffy Duck & Pina Colada), whilst there's also a Featured Rum (Venezuuelan or Martinique) and Featured Agave (Oaxaaco).

The 'Sometimes On' features a selection of house favourites, like Bow & Arrow (Mexcal Union Uno, EW. Taylor bourbon &b pineapple); El Presidente (Appleton Signature rum, vermouth & triple sec); or Sandilla (Arette Blanco, fino & cucumber).

As for the music, expect to hear Carlos Santana on regular rotation (the name of the bar is taken from his album Shaman and there's a signed album cover of Abraxis on the wall) along with music of a similar vibe.

Good to know - Mocktails are available. Shaman is brought to you by the savvy owner of Frog's Hollow Saloon and Alice.

Need to know - To reach Shaman, take the graffitied passage to the left side of 109 Edward St and at the end turn right.

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Still thirst for more suggestions on where to drink and eat out in Brisbane, head to our comprehensive Eat & Drink section HERE!