If you are not a local, you may not realize that Australia has one of the best nightlife scenes around. From high-end bars to incredible clubs, you can dance the night away in, Australia has it all. Here are a few of the best spots you need to visit at least once.
Black Pearl
Starting off strong, the Black Pearl in Melbourne is easily one of the best spots to head to for a delicious cocktail and a night spent with friends. With a Lucky Sod whisky cocktail in hand, you can easily find yourself having the time of your life until the early hours at this Melbourne staple.
What’s even better is that the Black Pearl is relatively affordable; something that will surprise many first-time visitors when they first step in the doors and see just how high-quality the venue and drinks are.
Maker
Found in the heart of Brisbane, Maker is a bar that many locals may not even realize exists. Akin to a hole-in-the-wall, Maker has only 20 seats, and the ultra-chic black, minimalist interior makes it feel incredibly secluded and private.
However, the drink menu is where this bar shines. The ever-changing menu features seasonal favorites, and if nothing takes your fancy, simply tell one of the very skilled bartenders what you like, and they will create a bespoke drink just for you.
Mary Mary
Off to the beautiful island of Tasmania now, Mary Mary is secret gem just waiting for you to find it. Located down an alley, behind an 1800s sandstone wall, Mary Mary is the place to be for pre-drinks before a big night out, or a night-cap on your way home.
The cocktail menu may be short, but you would be mistaken if you thought it didn’t pack a punch. Their specialty is reimagining classics with local fruits and alcohol, giving some old favorites a twist you have definitely not tasted before.
Byrdi
If you want add a new spin to a night of cocktails, take a trip to Byrdi in Melbourne. Their talented staff are creating drinks that are closer to science experiments than cocktails, and the end results are easily some of the best drinks you will ever have.
Using a variety of techniques, from smoking to fermentation, Byrdi is not a spot that is all bark and no bite, and their multiple awards and being recognized on the world stage prove it.
Old Mate’s Place
If you want something that is slightly off the beaten track, then you should head to Old Mate’s Place. Off the beaten track doesn’t mean somewhere remote either, but rather, this rooftop bar is one of Sydney’s best keep secrets.
With breathtaking views of the city, plenty of seating for you and your friends, and great cocktails and bar snacks, Old Man’s Place is ideal for drinks with friends, an after-work tipple, or a date.
Maybe Mae
Maybe Mae is an underground speakeasy that can be found in Adelaide that gives off a retro feel with a healthy helping of a modern touch. Fine wine and cocktails is the name of the game here, but they most certainly cater to everyone’s taste.
Not only is this a private and intimate bar that is perfect for after-work drinks or a night out, but there is also a fantastic restaurant found up the stairs serving up great hamburgers and steaks to fill you up.
Chinese Laundry
When it comes to nightclubs, Chinese Laundry is the place to be, and has been for several years. Often ranked in the Top 100 nightclubs in the world, Chinese Laundry has created a fun, exciting environment that just keeps bringing customers back for more.
The club has three intimate floors, as well as a terrace, with house, electro, tech, and hip-hop being the genres of choice. Not only does Chinese Laundry host many fan-favorite local DJs, but there have also been several international acts, such as Nina Kraviz and Marcel Dettman.
Prohibition
As the name implies, Prohibition is a 1920s-style club with modern twists that bring it into the 21st century. While it may not be the biggest club, their consistency in providing great drinks, and even better music ensures customers come back each and every weekend.
Home
If you want a superclub experience in the heart of Sydney, then you need to head to Home. Spread over three floors and a terrace, Home has a fairly broad music selection, meaning there is something for everyone.
Depending on the night, you can enjoy everything from House to Techno, Electro, Drum and Bass, and even some R&B and Hip-Hop.
Revolver Upstairs
Revolver Upstairs is a great spot to visit if you want the best of both worlds. During the day and early evening, it is a fantastic bar and restaurant, but once Friday night comes around and the hours tick by, it becomes an amazing nightclub.
Both local and international DJs grace the booth on a regular basis, and with an eclectic selection of music, and great food and drinks, it can easily become the spot you stay at from early dinner until close.
