West End is one of Brisbane’s earliest established suburbs - one that continues to grow, change and evolve into a melting pot of culture that is beloved and celebrated by locals and visitors alike. West End’s quirky style creates an eclectic atmosphere, and is reflected through the restaurants, bars and entertainment venues that spoils you for choice every night.
Boundary Street is the pulsing hub of West End with its high concentration of bars, pubs and cafes. From cocktails to craft beer, retro to modern, there's a bar to satisfy all needs.
Archive Beer Boutique has more than 80 craft beer varieties on tap with micro-breweries, Catchment Brewing Co. and Brisbane Brewing Co. just down the street.
Originally built in 1864, The Boundary Hotel has undergone a major facelift and is now a popular watering hole to transition from afternoon to night. Combine live music and a great atmosphere with cold beers on tap, wine, cocktails and excellent woodfired pizzas, what more could you want?
If you’re looking for something a little more intimate, Covent Garden is a gin specialty bar with more than 500 gins to choose from. Plus, it’s one of Brisbane’s completely coeliac-friendly restaurants. If darker spirits are your thing, turn the corner onto Browning Street to find whisky and cocktail bar Cobbler, and enjoy many a tipple with a side of ‘old-world’ class.
If you’re on the search for live music, try The Bearded Lady, West Room or Loft West End.
Vulture Street is dotted with nightlife gems. For drinks, try The End, Bosc or tiki-themed The Jungle Bar. A little further towards Hardgrave Road, Bar Francine serves pescatarian bar snacks as well as natural and independent wine brands from its chic converted workers' cottage.
For an electrifying fusion of live entertainment, bold performances, and lavish design, West End Electric offers a unique theatrical experience transporting guests into a world of glamour and creativity.
On the northern end of Boundary Street, you’ll find West Village, a premium mixed-use residential and retail precinct that is buzzing with activity day and night. Its lush greenery, beautifully restored brick facades and modern fit-out have positioned it as one of West End’s most popular night spots.
You can dine in at a range of lavish restaurants including Italian Street Kitchen,Yamas Greek + Dining, Rich and Rare, for Asian-inspired dining there is Zazu Dining and Bar, Vela Restaurant, Ippin Japanese Dining and Goodtime or for something more causal, opt for Betty’s Burgers and Cheeky Poke.
After dinner, visit Anita Gelato for a scoop (or two) and stroll the precinct, taking in the fairy lights, water features and public art installations which pop up throughout the forecourt.
Within West Village, you’ll also find contemporary arts organisation Metro Arts – its lobby, gallery and theatre are programmed with work from Australian artists throughout the year.
Montague Road has long been a popular daytime haunt, but the stretch is now a must-visit spot for restaurants, bars and pubs.
Montague Markets, located towards the West End City Cat terminal end of Montague Road is home to a host of retail and restaurants. Grab a casual bite at cult-follower Broken Hearts Burger Club, Wara Sushi or dine in at casual Italian joint Voglia.
If you’re looking for a pre- or post-dinner drink, The Raven Hotel is just across the street in The Thomas Doxon Centre, the Heritage-listed home of Queensland Ballet. Venture down the road to a local favourite, The Montague Hotel, which serves up great food, beers on tap and live music seven nights a week.
La Lupa is one of West End’s hidden gems. This sleek pizzeria and bar pairs its extensive wine list with traditional Italian fare, making it a must-visit for lovers of good food and drink.
Come to Daddy is West End’s newest inclusive cocktail bar, kitchen and social club. Showcasing craft beer and signature cocktails, and a killer range of entertainment including drag shows, open-mic nights to DJ sets and karaoke nights.
Want to play? Get to know the best things to do in West End.