These are the new Aussie hotspots and old institutions that stole our hearts in 2025.
As a professional bartender, consultant and mixologist (naming this profession at tax time is a punish), I’m constantly on the hunt for the latest and greatest new bar – and 2025 was a bumper year. From hugely anticipated openings from lauded chefs to tiny listening bars with no names, so many top new venues mean now is a great time to head out for a drink all across the country.
But just as important as the shiny and new venues are the old institutions. Like an old favourite jacket, these are the venues that feel comfortable, inviting and warm, even if the cuffs are a little worn. When one of the biggest trends in cocktails is ‘old is new’, our longtime faves deserve some love as well, lest we lose them (vale The Everleigh, and my old jackets).
So, here’s my round-up of 2025’s best new – and old – bars from around the country. If you’re travelling this season to see family and friends, and maybe need somewhere to meet or even a little ‘me time’, keep this list handy. And if you do pop in, be sure to tell them I sent you.
Shaman, CBD
A rum- and tequila-heavy backbar with a Santana-inspired playlist? Sign me up. Shaman (pictured) is the fourth venue from Pete Hollands (Frog’s Hollow, Alice, The Alliance) who is going from strength to strength. Dark, moody, buzzy and obviously hard to find, this is exactly how I’d like all my bars to be.
What to drink: Ice-cold Estrella and something neat from the backbar.
The Gresham, CBD
Step foot into the Gresh and you’re surrounded by history. The bar opened in 2013, but the building has proudly stood since 1885, and it has a backbar adorned with aged spirits to match. The Gresham consistently produces some of Brisbane’s finest bartending talent, so you’re sure to get a great dram and a great chat.
What to drink: Lagavulin Distillers Edition (PX Cask).
Honeydripper, CBD
Listening bars had a huge moment in 2025, and Honeydripper (pictured) made itself heard. From the team behind live-music stalwart Memphis Slims, this beautiful beast has serious sonic cred, with the crew trading in country and rock for soothing hi-fi beats. The venue looks as good as it sounds, all soft furnishings meeting custom joinery. The cocktails are inspired by artists, too.
What to drink: The On & On cocktail (inspired Erykah Badu).
Maybe Mae, CBD
In the centre of Adelaide’s hospitality heart sits Maybe Mae, launched 11 years ago in a little basement behind a door that’s very hard to find. Persevere and you’re greeted with one of SA’s most welcoming drinking nooks with staff to match. This is my favourite place to settle in and discover the bounty of wine and spirits produced in the surrounds of the City of Churches.
What to drink: Peel St Corpse Reviver.
Hands Down, Fitzroy
From the team that brought you Bar Liberty and Above Board comes Hands Down (pictured) – my new favourite local for anything from a dance to a Dirty Martini. Nailing the venue essentials of perfect lighting, sound and service, Dom and team are in it for the long haul.
What to drink: 50-50 Martini.
Gerald’s Bar, Carlton
Okay, so this bar isn’t new, but it’s in a new spot. After almost 20 years on Rathdowne St, Melbourne institution Gerald’s picked up stumps and shifted a whole 700m around the corner to the former site of Enoteca Sileno. Bigger, brighter, bolder, BIGGER! Gerald’s has been an inspiration to so many, so to see it slide into a new skin, with brand new bells and whistles, is an absolute delight.
What to drink: A Thrown Plymouth Martini and a glass of whatever’s open.
Black Pearl, Fitzroy
All roads lead to Pearl. Some 23 years young, with the tastiest sausage rolls on Brunswick St, Black Pearl has seen some of Australia’s best and brightest bartending talent behind the stick (including yours truly). Taking as much care with a cold pot as they do with a Paper Plane, this is where you go when you have the hankering for a well-made classic at 2:30am.
What to drink: Classics, but I love their Martinez.
Silver’s Motel, Enmore
Nestled up the western end of thriving Enmore Rd sits Silvers, the sister venue to PS40. I’m told it’s modelled after roadside motels from the ’80s, but, honestly, I didn’t notice as I was in awe of the stunning backbar and cocktail menu. Michael Chiem and Tynan Sidhu are steering the ship so you’re in safe hands.
What to drink: Ice Magic Old Fashioned.
Earl’s Juke Joint, Newtown
The epitome of hospitality, every time I’m fortunate enough to pop back into Earl’s (pictured), it feels like a warm hug. With great music, drinks and staff, it’s been that way for the past 12 years. Owner Pasan Wijesena has a knack for creating spaces that blend seamlessly with their community (like sister venue Magpie), and it seems Earl’s has created its own little community down the far end of King.
What to drink: Tommy’s Margarita.
Light Years, CBD
This is the latest outpost from the Light Years team, with venues in other dream locations such as Byron Bay, Noosa, Newcastle and Burleigh (Light Years, if you’re ever looking for a drinks consultant, I humbly volunteer as tribute). The Perth instalment is a win for the local foodie scene, giving a modern take on Asian cuisine, a healthy injection of great Australian seafood, and a tight, modern drinks list.
What to drink: The Silk Road – a Whisky Sour with vanilla, chamomile and Chambord.
Buffalo Club, Fremantle
If you ever make it to Freo and find yourself slightly parched, do yourself a favour and pop into the Buffalo Club (operating since 1938). I’m hesitant to say much more as it will ruin the surprise.
What to drink: A middy of Emu.
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