Five Canberra Friday Night Bar Favourites
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Seeking a new Friday night bar favourite in Canberra? We’ve found five—some new, some old, all perfect to welcome the weekend.
Here you are—it’s the end of another week. Well done you! And seeing as they don’t give out Thank-God-It’s-Friday acronyms for no reason, you’re doubtless in need of a little TLC. A few drinks with friends and colleagues, perhaps?
We’ve saved you the hassle of debating where to go—here are five bars that are guaranteed to satisfy and give you the strength to do it all over again come Monday.
Lilo Bar
Izakaya, Mate!
Canberra’s food culture goes beyond shrimps on the barbie, and brand new Lilo Bar is proof of this. Located in Burbury Hotel as an extension of Lilotang, it introduces the style of Izakaya (a type of Japanese bar) to Friday night drinks. This means a range of Japanese-inspired cocktails, Japanese beers, and – of course – sake.
Because everyone is peckish on Friday evenings, snacks include signature karaage chicken wings, croquettes, sushi plates, and gyoza. Combined with the Japanese-style drinks, you’re sure to receive a well-rounded Izakaya experience with a dose of the local on the outdoor deck.
Boasting a distinctive drinks list and great value for food, Lilo Bar is one to watch. A Friday night spent here would be a night well spent.
Burbury Hotel, 1 Burbury Cl, Barton | Open Tuesday-Friday lunch 12pm to 2:30pm, Tuesday-Saturday dinner 6pm to 10:30pm, Sunday-Monday Closed | chairmangroup.com.au
Public
Welcomed like an Old Friend
After opening in December 2012, Public in Manuka quickly became a local favourite. It’s stood the test of time, remaining a go-to with its modern pub vibe and having that classic corner pub location – so everyone can find it easily.
Whether you’re a regular or a newbie, your old friend Public will bring your week to a close with a mix of contemporary and classic pub food paired with an impressive wine list and selection of spirits.
Adding to the social ambience, music is also a constant companion here as another remedy to your office blues. So when it comes to warmth and familiarity (with a hint of class) at the end of the working week, none do it better than Public.
1-33 Flinders Way, Griffith | Open Monday-Friday 10am till late, Saturday-Sunday 9am till late | publicbar.com.au
Pialligo Estate
Pialligo Estate. Image: Brooke Zotti.
Getaway (Without Getting Away)
Views, views, views: Whether they be panoramic views of a vineyard and orchard, rolling hills, the city’s skyline with Parliament House or Black Mountain tower… Pialligo Estate offers all of this and then some, against the backdrop of a majestically-setting sun.
Every Friday during March you can celebrate the end of the week in style from 4-8: 30 pm. Take a friend, enjoy the live music and get a bottle of wine and six pieces of charcuterie for only $30pp for two!
It’s the perfect way to enjoy the rest of the summer weather and to start the weekend the right way!
1/18 Kallaroo Rd, Pialligo | Open Wednesday-Friday 11:30am to 10pm, Saturday 11am to 10pm, Sunday 11am to 4pm, Monday-Tuesday Closed | thepialligoestate.com.au
Mint Garden Bar
Mint Garden Bar. Image: facebook.com/mintgardenbar
Urban and Tranquil with Trees, Oh My!
The Mint Garden Bar at Sage is characterised by greenery. Lots of it. Nestled in the breezeway between two historic buildings and heritage gardens in Braddon, the bar offers a tranquil-meets-bustling-city experience.
The alfresco setting features a tree-filled courtyard and fairy lights lining said trees; an enchanting mini-garden in a pocket of the metro. Canberra is known for its beer, and Mint’s boutique tap beers are a star attraction. The bar also boasts a wine list hailing from the ACT.
These literal tastes of Canberra culture can be enjoyed with canapé–style food. Informal, relaxed, a temporal escape from the city surrounds… Mint is the perfect scene for those who crave post-work downtime in an easily accessible location.
Gorman House Arts Centre, Batman St, Braddon | Open Tuesday-Saturday 12pm to 11pm, Sunday-Monday Closed | sagerestaurant.net.au
Tipsy Bull
One of Tipsy Bull’s Deconstructed G&Ts
Deconstructed Drinks
If you’re unafraid of a little bustle, a little music and a whole lotta gin, then look no further than Tipsy Bull. Located on Lonsdale Street in Braddon, the eatery is known for its G&T selection. There are over 165 varieties of gin available inspired by different regions of the world.
The most unique feature of the bar is that the G&Ts are served deconstructed; this means you can tailor your drink to taste and experience the novelty of creating your own masterpiece. As if that’s not satisfying enough, Tipsy Bull offers a range of equally delicious tapas to accompany your G&T.
A pleasing representation of both the gin and people in Canberra, Tipsy Bull is ideal for those who are looking to end their week in a lively yet laidback environment while adding peppercorn to a drink with tongs.
2/5 Lonsdale St, Braddon | Open Tuesday-Thursday 12pm to 10:30pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm to 12am, Sunday 12pm to 10pm, Monday Closed | tipsybull.com.au
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