Hey there, lovely readers- looking for a sophisticated vibe to wrap up a day of Brissie sightseeing? Well, there’s nothing better than a sassy little sip while being serenaded with a sexy sax. Oh yes! If you love a cosy little jazz club, Brisbane doesn’t disappoint.

Mood lighting, vintage comfort, eclectic décor, and smooth music that’s both relaxing and danceable depending on mood, or cocktail choice(s). Cool the heels and scat the night away at four of our faves…

Mr Vain

FORTITUDE VALLEY

New to Jazz? I dipped my toes right here, stumbling across this little gem while feasting with buddies on Mr Vain’s Pan-Asian cuisine. Every Thursday night, you’ll be hypnotised by the nostalgic sounds of NYC jazz at this ever-so chic spot. Hidden down a moody laneway illuminated with ambient orange lighting, Mr Vain serves up a delicious à la carte menu while you sip on a Manhattan and let the sweet sounds of jazz music wash over you.

1a/610 Ann St Fortitude Valley 4006

Doo-Bop Bar

BRISBANE CITY

There’s something snazzy about basement bars, reminding me of the smoky speak-easy’s of yesterday-year. You’ll find Doo-Bop Bar has that feel and its cool moody vibe offers the perfect respite post shopping or office slogging. Listening to both local, interstate, and international artists getting their groove on live while you sip on your favourite cocktail? What better way to wind-down.

101 Edward St Brisbane 4000

Chattanooga Jazz Bar

FORTITUDE VALLEY

Inspired by America’s Deep South, where jazz music first began, this one showcases vintage furniture, hearty food, a casual atmosphere and is the place for absolutely anyone. Whether you’re new to the world of jazz or know John Coltrane’s discography like the back of your hand, at Chattanooga, you’ll enjoy the full jazz experience and feel right at home. 

115 Wickham St Fortitude Valley 4006

Brisbane Jazz Club

KANGAROO POINT

Sheltered in a historic boathouse, the Brisbane Jazz Club is a musical institution. Known as the home of live jazz in Brisbane, a night at this iconic venue offers fabulous views of the Story Bridge from the private river deck, scrumptious food, refreshing drinks, and incredible artists from across the world, improvising exciting jazz music on the spot – no musical experience is the same at this beloved establishment! Wanting to see the best of the best? Head over to the Brisbane Jazz Club.

1 Annie St, Kangaroo Point 4169

Tell us about your fave bars!

As you know, I’m passionate about exploring the world and love to showcase the hidden gems on this blog. Well! Scratching an itchy foot while lamenting to my travel bud Jen about the drought between trips, the woman said, ‘Hon! You live in a city full of action, yet you don’t share any of those adventures?’ A Sydneysider having FOMO about the vibrancy of my hometown Brisbane? Unusual. She’s right, though.

Thing is, you’re less likely to hear about Brisbane’s ever expanding vibrancy over thecacophony of our Sydney and Melbourne sisters extolling their brilliance in a never-ending competition for supremacy, so let me enlighten you. From fresh fare markets to music gigs, new restaurants and roof-top cocktail spots to hidden bars and roving foodie trails, light shows, underground concerts and more – Brisbane is no longer the ‘sleepy town’ of yesteryear. Heck no! Let’s start with RiverFest.

River Festival is when Brisbane brings out the big guns in celebration of all things art, culture and community. From theatre, art and music to a combination of all, such as ‘The Partty’ delivering a ‘mind and body bending’ combination of circus, cabaret and acrobatics. Kicking off with the fireworks extravaganza – Riverfire (I know, all those dollars wasted, but this one rivals Sydney’s New Year’s Eve, and I simply can’t resist a good firework’), there are over 1000 performances running city-wide across 23 days worth exploring, experiencing and indulging. Running from September 1st to the 23rd, why not come on up, over or down, book a spot of accom and jump right in!

A wonderland in the botanic gardens

For more information: https://www.brisbanefestival.com.au/whats-on/2023