You’ve purchased a dazzling diamond engagement ring, got down on bended knee, and she said “Yes!”. Now it’s time to celebrate and have a good time (oh, I’ve got Kool and The Gang in my head).
Whether it’s an intimate gathering for two, where you can talk and make exciting plans – the wedding, travel, getting a dog, having kids – or a party with friends, so here are five iconic Brisbane bars perfect for celebrating your engagement.
In the words of Kool & The Gang: “Celebrate good times, come on!”
Just like a good relationship, the Osbourne has stood the test of time and never gets boring. Celebrate the beginning of your courtship with one of Brisbane’s most iconic hotels.
Situated on the corner of Ann and Constance Streets in Fortitude Valley, Osbourne Hotel is the ideal place to celebrate your great news. Centrally located, the pub is the perfect venue to get together with your friends and family to party well into the night with live music and house DJs.
With a wide selection of wines and an extensive cocktail menu, it’s sure to be a night to remember. You’ll also be spoilt for choice with a large number of the best craft beers on tap. Their menu will please everyone with its fantastic blend of traditional pub fare and modern international cuisine. Be sure you try the amazing pepperoni pizza whilst you’re there!
Osbourne Hotel has been making memories since it first opened its doors back in 1864 and with 9 private areas at the recently renovated pub to choose from, you’re sure to find a space for the perfect engagement party. Private rooms are also available for hire with your own catering service.
The hotel is one of the best venues in Brisbane to show off your new Diamondport Engagement Ring for all to see. To find out more, head over to Osbourne Hotel’s website or give them a call on 07 3252 9833.
Our tip:
Ask Osbourne Hotel about their wedding packages. If you’re not looking for an over the top wedding and just want to celebrate your special day with the ones you love and a handful of friends, the hotel is the perfect place to hold your ceremony with a cocktail style reception all under the one roof.
Osbourne Hotel – 766 Ann St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006
The view from Eleven Rooftop Bar is absolutely serene; you’re above this beautiful, bustling city, yet you’re away from the hustle, just floating in a dreamscape above it.
As you emerge from the elevator and cross the threshold, it feels like anything is possible, that a world of opportunity awaits.
Eleven is sophisticated and sexy, and with its breathtaking view and ambiance, it tops my list for places to celebrate buying your beautiful engagement ring.
Arrive at 4 or 5pm to watch the sky change colour and the city lights appear. The sun sets over Mount Cootha behind the city. Book a table for just the two of you, or a lounge for up to 30 guests.
Our recommendation – have a cheeky cocktail, watch the glorious sunset and forget the world below.
Eleven Rooftop Bar
Level 11, 757 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
A mesmerising view of Story Bridge makes this a uniquely Brisbane bar. Mr and Mrs G has long been a favourite of ours – it’s a charming and cosy wine and cocktail bar set low and close to the Brisbane River. You see the boats moving along the river and the twinkling lights and you know you’re in Brisbane.
It’s smart and sophisticated with an intimate vibe perfect to celebrate any occasion, especially after making that truly special ring purchase. Fall in love all over again as you lock eyes with your stunning new engagement ring (and your fiancé too of course).
Superb service, old favourite tunes and a great wine list add up to make this bar/restaurant worthy of its prime location and incredible view. Nothing tastes as sweet as sipping wine by the river at Mr and Mrs G. We’ll cheers to that!
Mr and Mrs G
1 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Madame Wu is a hip Brisbane bar with great food and plenty of personality. Feel like you’re part of Brisbane city with another spectacular Story Bridge and river view.
It’s a bigger, bolder venue, with a vivacious clientele and seriously delicious modern Asian food. If you’re looking for something edgy, Madame Wu is a no brainer. We love the artistic touches, clusters of Chinese lanterns and vibrant atmosphere that makes this bar funky and fun.
They’ve got an impressive wine list with plenty of wines by the glass, and great cocktails too. If you’re planning to invite friends and family, the private dining room could be perfect. It’s an equally lovely venue for just you and your partner or a small group of best friends.
With the lights of Brisbane city reflected on the river, this could be just the place to celebrate your shiny new engagement ring.
Our tip: ask for a balcony table to drink in that view – it’s pure magic on a spring or summer evening, especially when you’re celebrating an engagement.
Madame Wu
71 Eagle St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
It reminds me of Melbourne; a hidden gem of a bar nestled discreetly down an unassuming lane. Situated down Spencer Lane, the Laneway is the perfect local hot spot to revel in. It’s an intimate space with great music – you’ll often find a DJ on the decks.
World-class spirits line the walls and they offer cocktail mixology workshops (hens’ party idea right there) and whisky flights. There’s an eclectic wine list, legendary selection of craft beer and best of all, fantastic quality bar food. Chef Alejandro Cancino was shortlisted for the Brisbane Times Good Food Guide Chef of the Year in 2016.
The Laneway has an exciting, high-energy vibe. It’s not the quiet, romantic restaurant you bring your beloved to pop the question, but an awesome choice to gather after work for a celebratory drink once she’s said yes.
The Lane Way Bar
181 Mary St, Brisbane City QLD 4000
Spicers Balfour have a glorious roof top bar above the hotel, with spectacular views of Story Bridge. It’s a little out of the way in New Farm, not somewhere I’d typically think to go for a night out, but only a few minutes from the city.
Select from a quality wine list, and maybe stay for dinner. The bar and restaurant are typically for the hotel patrons, so they’re lovely and quiet; a romantic spot to celebrate buying an engagement ring together. Not only would this be an exquisite place to celebrate your proposal, you could make a weekend of it and stay a night or two.
The hotel itself is a beautifully restored Old Queenslander. It still retains its heritage charm but has clever modern touches like floor to ceiling glass windows and a sumptuous fit out.
I’ve long been a fan of Spicers hotels – they have such thoughtful service and a great attention to detail and quality. When I proposed to Sarah we stayed at Spicers Peak Lodge. Recently had a few nights at Spicers Potts Point for the Sydney Jewellery Fair. You can read more about that amazing experience in my blog about planning a romantic Sydney getaway – complete with a list of great places to propose.
Spicers Balfour Hotel
37 Balfour St, New Farm QLD 4005
There are so many people to catch up with once you get engaged – family, friends, and workmates will all want to wish you well. So hit the ground hopping (bar hopping – sorry, Dad joke there) and have a fantastic time showing off your new engagement ring. Just like precious diamonds, celebrations come in all shapes and sizes, and you’re sure to find the right bar to fit the occasion.
Address: Suite 402, Level 4,
180 Queen Street, Brisbane City, 4000
