For a small bar or pub to be considered one of the very best, it has to deliver a number of crucial elements: high-quality alcohol, excellent food and drink preparation, top-notch service, a fresh take on design, and overall, a definite knack for providing guests an exceptionally good time.
The good news for Australians is that the small bar and pub scene has been steadily growing, and now much-frequented venues can be found all over — Perth, Canberra, Adelaide, Hobart, and of course, Brisbane and Sydney. There's something for everyone's tastes, so if you find yourself thirsting for a new experience, check out the top 10 bars and pubs in Australia the next time you're with your mates (in no particular order).
Earl's Juke Joint, Sydney
Whether you're gearing up for a few drinks in the afternoon or a full night of enjoying the house band's music and ordering cocktail after cocktail, this place is ideal.
This Must Be The Place, Sydney
Eager to see handsome fellas Charlie Ainsbury and Luke Ashton in action? Visit this spot and savour the taste of their classic and innovative drinks.
Franklin, Hobart
The impeccable design details boasting of fresh elegance and coolness, but it's certainly a great place for enjoying wonderful Italian wines and the best bar chow from the sea (think cockles, oysters and salt cod).
Lefty's Old Time Music Hall, Brisbane
The unmistakable nautical and sailor tattoo theme makes Lefty's a crowd favourite. What's not to like? Roaring live honkytonk music, an impressive drinks list (30 kinds of beer, 60 kinds of rum, and even a special house-made recipe for ginger beer) and — you guessed it — seafood snacks all give Lefty's that wonderful loud charm.
Union Electric, Melbourne
If a little Chinese flair is more your thing, Union Electric does not disappoint. Brilliant glassware filled with sharp fruit-flavoured cocktails, dumplings that can be ordered from next door's Kum Den, and other attention grabbing details make this bar an absolute hit.
The Conservatory, Perth
Rooftop bars make for excellent drinking experiences, and Perth's first one should be on anyone's list. There's nothing like savouring luscious international wines while taking in a panoramic view of the city.
D'Arenberg Winery, South Australia
This family-run estate prides itself using the basket press to crush grapes in small batches for more refined flavours.
Hoo Haa Bar, Victoria
This place offers great coffee to daytime patrons and an extensive range of cocktails for evening guests. Beer and comforting Italian food can also be enjoyed in this unassuming yet popular joint.
Ettamogah Pub, NSW
You probably know this uniquely shaped pub from its regular appearances in Ken Maynard's The Australasia Post cartoon strip. Since opening in 1987, the pub has become a popular attraction.
Adelaide River Inn, NT
Stop by this inn for a cold beer and take home a one of a kind souvenir: a photo with Charlie the Buffalo (of "Crocodile Dundee" fame). There's also plenty of memorabilia from the inn's wartime heritage to look through as you sip your drink.
Relax and unwind at the best dining and drinking venues in Australia today.