COCKTAIL BARS CANBERRA

Monster Kitchen & Bar is a contemporary establishment in Ovolo Canberra specializing in seasonally-inspired cuisine and thoughtfully crafted cocktails that blend classic inspirations with creative modern mixology. The restaurant features distinctive interior elements including polished terrazzo flooring, mid-century modern furniture, and an eclectic art collection, creating an inviting artistic environment. The menu emphasizes locally sourced and seasonal ingredients designed for sharing in a social setting, complemented by express lunch deals Monday-Friday and private event space accommodating intimate gatherings up to 20 guests.

Alcove is an intimate 30-seat cocktail bar in Braddon, Canberra, designed around the concept of expertly paired cocktails and canapés. Hidden behind Lonsdale Street in a modern apartment building, the venue features low lighting and curated background music creating an enclosed, conversational atmosphere. Mixologist Ricky and Chef Kenny collaborate to craft a rotating menu of world-inspired pairings, with cocktails displaying complex, delicate flavor layers that evolve as temperatures shift. Each thoughtfully composed drink pairs with specially designed canapés, delivering a refined fine-dining experience suited for intimate occasions and culinary exploration.

Bar Beirut is Canberra's premier cocktail bar and modern Middle Eastern restaurant, featuring moody maroon décor complemented by Moroccan-style lampshades and a mosaic-detailed bar. The intimate yet lively atmosphere fuses Middle Eastern warmth with Parisian sophistication, enhanced by regular entertainment including Saturday belly dance performances and burlesque shows featuring fire arts. The cocktail menu balances citrusy spritzes with smoky options designed to complement bold Middle Eastern flavors, while the kitchen serves flame-grilled meats, spice-drenched vegetables, and silky dips. The venue has been recognized as one of Australia's top cocktail bars and Canberra's favorite Middle Eastern restaurant multiple years running.

Bar Rochford is a wine and cocktail bar hidden on the first floor of Canberra's historic Melbourne Building, winner of Gourmet Traveller's 2018 Bar of the Year. The space features dignified green leather booths, exposed concrete beams, and weathered flooring evoking the building's heritage, with vintage vinyl records setting the soundtrack. The liberal wine list showcases eclectic producers from around the world offered by glass and bottle, bolstered by fortified wines, amari, and aperitivo featured in house cocktails. Produce-driven cooking built for sharing complements the beverage program, with a rotating set menu ($95 per person) and à la carte options available Tuesday through Saturday from 5pm.

High Jinks is a basement cocktail bar in Canberra's New Acton precinct distinguished by its Art Deco aesthetic, featuring forest green leather sofas, vintage wall photographs, and stained-glass lampshades. Winner of ACT Cocktail Bar of the Year at the 2021 Australian Bar Awards, the venue showcases an extensive cocktail menu, craft local beers, and fine wines. A small but mighty food menu highlights European bites including pizzas, patatas bravas, and Portuguese chicken wings, while a curated rockabilly playlist completes the nostalgic, intimate experience. Located beneath Morning Glory café, High Jinks operates Tuesday-Thursday 5pm-1am and Friday-Saturday from 4pm late.

Highball is a luxurious rum-focused tropical cocktail bar perched on Level 1 of London Circuit in Canberra's city center, offering escape-like ambiance with abundant greenery and views overlooking City Hill. The venue centers rum culture with an extensive spirit selection and signature tropical cocktails alongside seasonal punch bowls. Weekly specials include $15 mojitos on Tuesdays, $16 Caribbean Coolers daily, and 2-for-1 daiquiris during happy hour. Entertainment drives the venue, with DJs every Friday and Saturday until 3am, Latin Tuesdays, and fortnightly Latino Karaoke, while the exclusive Casita Bar terrace accommodates private groups up to 100 guests.

Luna is a sophisticated dining and cocktail venue located at 99 London Circuit in Canberra, featuring art-deco surroundings that blend romance and revelry. The establishment serves elevated street food with modern-Australian influences and shareable plates designed for social dining, paired with audacious signature cocktails showcasing local and international spirits alongside curated wines and tap beers. Luna operates as an evening and late-night destination with happy hour specials Thursday-Friday (4:30-6:30pm) and regularly hosts live music events and entertainment, capturing the essence of dining, sipping, and playing.

Molly is a chic speakeasy-style bar recreating the ambiance of the Prohibition era, featuring Canberra's most extensive whisky collection and expertly crafted cocktails. The venue maintains an authentic 1920s aesthetic with the tagline "Hard to Find, Impossible to Forget," enhanced by nightly live jazz performances ranging from piano jazz to Chicago-style jam sessions. Beyond cocktails, Molly offers masterclasses on whisky, private cocktail classes, and private whisky tastings, making it a destination for both casual patrons and connoisseurs seeking an immersive vintage experience.

White Rabbit is a whimsical cocktail room in Canberra featuring Alice in Wonderland-themed decor and signature cocktails served by experienced bartenders. The venue offers specialized experiences including Tipsy Tea, a weekend high tea pairing savory and sweet treats with cocktails or French champagne, and Shaken or Stirred cocktail-making classes ideal for special occasions. Located at 65 Northbourne Ave, White Rabbit also provides private event hosting for up to 100 guests, takeaway charcuterie boxes, and operates Wednesday-Sunday with extended Friday and Saturday hours.

Hippo Co is a premiere whisky and cocktail bar located at Garema Place in Canberra's central business district, housed in a striking prohibition-style venue with split-level architecture and glass frontage. The bar maintains an impressive back bar featuring over 230 whiskies from across the globe, including rare selections such as Bruichladdich Black Art and Japanese whiskies like Ichiro's Malt Chichibu. The cocktail menu is thoughtfully organized by flavor profile—sweet, sour, refreshing, and stirred—with classic preparations including Old Fashioneds and Martinis. A signature feature is live jazz and blues performances on Wednesday evenings, creating an eclectic entertainment experience. The venue welcomes both reservations and walk-in guests, with outdoor seating available, and operates from 5pm daily except Sundays, which open from 3pm.