10 of Canberra’s most Instagram-worthy bars (and what to order)
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Canberra’s cocktail scene is serving up serious Instagram envy.
From themed bars to rooftop venues with killer views, these 10 spots serve more than good drinks – they’re also perfect for photo ops.
Here’s how to sip, snap, and double tap your way through Canberra.
White Rabbit Cocktail Room (City)
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The vibe: An Alice In Wonderland themed escape in the heart of the city, with snug nooks, bespoke liquor cabinets, velvet booths and a cosy ambiance, it’s a curious twist on a classic cocktail bar.
What to order: All the drinks here look good on camera, so you have plenty to choose from. But the Strawberries & Cream served with lollies, and the Caterpillar (which comes with Sour Worms), will provide you with the perfect eye candy.
65 Northbourne Avenue, City | whiterabbitroom.com.au
Luna (City)
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The vibe: Nestled within the historic Sydney Building, this bar offers a blend of classic art-deco ambiance with modern twist. Take a seat in the sophisticated cocktail lounge or dance the night away on the dance floor.
What to order: For those who love a bit of drama, the Winter Orchard (pictured), is a must. Made with Canberra Distillery winter gin, Marionette Nocino, vanilla infused sweet vermouth, Campari, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters it’s full of flair and flavour.
99 London Circuit, City | lunabar.com.au
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The vibe: Inspired by the soulful songs of Frank Sinatra and the old Hollywood bars he would have frequented; Blue Eyes is all about glitz and glamour. Make sure to dress the part in your Hollywood finest.
What to order: Everything look elegant at Blue Eyes, but for those looking for something eye-catching, their signature cocktail menu has plenty to choose from. The Bye Bye Blackbird with a ume salted flower and the Ruthless Babe with pear and vanilla foam is sure to go down a treat – both on your Story and in your stomach.
Level 1/5 Garema Place, City | blueeyescbr.com.au
Bar Beirut (City)
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The vibe: With a warm palette of dusky pinks, brass features and dark wood, this 40-seater cocktail bar is as close as you’ll get to the nightlife of Lebanon’s capital without leaving Canberra. Buzzy, busy and full of life, make sure to book a table when they host belly dancing performances for the full experience.
What to order: Named Canberra’s Best Cocktail Bar over three consecutive years, you can’t go wrong here. As well as making all of the classics, the Wasabi Martini has been a menu mainstay since 2019, while the Beirut Express is like a spicy margarita – but better.
25 Garema Place, City | barbeirut.com.au
Highball (City)
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The vibe: Transport yourself to Cuba for the perfect tropical escape without leaving the city at Highball. Luxe, lush and with a coastal feel, you’ll look like a jet-setter without having to purchase a plane ticket.
What to order: With an extensive cocktail list that veers heavily into rum, the Zombie at Highball is iconic for a reason. Tropical, sour and very boozy, this was originally created in 1934 for a hungover customer to get through a business meeting. Known for its fruity palate and flaming overproof rum shot, it’s not for a quiet night.
Level 1, 75 London Circuit, City | highball.bar
88mph (City)
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The vibe: The 80s called and asked you to come party. With karaoke rooms, arcade games, a light-up dance floor and plenty of neon lights, this basement bar is loud, fun and will help you turn back time.
What to order: A frozen cocktail is the way to go before you dance down memory lane. The Blue Lagoon and Miami Vice are dangerously good, but don’t say we didn’t warn you.
8-10 Hobart Place, City | 88mph.bar
Howling Moon (Braddon)
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The vibe: Sweeping views of Black Mountain and Telstra Tower, pink and red pops of colour and a leafy green wall that will act as the perfect Instagram backdrop – this buzzy venue has it all.
What to order: All of the cocktails at Howling Moon are pretty, but there are a few who stand out on the extensive menu. The Pretty in Pink looks like it belongs in a Barbie movie and is garnished with pink fairy floss, while Above the Avenue is garnished with toasted marshmallow and sounds like a decadent version of an Espresso Martini.
Level 6/150 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon | thehowlingmoon.com.au
The Peacemaker Saloon (Braddon)
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The vibe: The Wild West meets Canberra’s CBD at the Peacemaker Saloon – and who doesn’t love a cowboy-themed bar? Make sure to BYO cowboy hat to fit right in.
What to order: Serving beer and margaritas, along with some old-fashioned Southern drinks, you can’t go wrong with their ‘Classic Hooch’ – all the cocktails you know and love.
26 Mort Street, Braddon | peacemakersaloon.com.au
Leyla (Barton)
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The vibe: Perched on the rooftop of the Burbury Hotel in Barton, this bar literally takes it to the next level with stunning views, and light and bright interiors that provide an elevated and contemporary drinking experience. And when the bar itself is just as breathtaking as the views, you know you’ll be sure to get a good snap.
What to order: The Purple Rain cocktail (pictured) with Patron Silver tequila, Chambord, hibiscus, agave, lime, grapefruit and blood orange foam will match the sunset as you sip away and enjoy the view of some of Canberra’s most iconic buildings.
1 Burbury Close, Barton | leylabar.com.au
11e Cave (Kingston)
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The vibe: Warm, cheeky, intimate and playful, this tiny underground bar is inspired by the small French cellar bars serving simple snacks and great wines and cocktails. You’ll need to find the red door to snag yourself a seat here, with only walk-ins accepted.
What to order: Here you’ll find an extensive wine list, but for cocktail lovers, the Raspberry Gimlet with grey goose vodka, Summer Flowers vermouth, raspberries, red grapes and sweet woodruff will look very chic against the scraped concrete walls.
Corner Kennedy and Eyre Street, Kingston | @11e_cave
