Under the Radar
Tucked behind unmarked doors, inside warehouses, or down side streets you’d normally walk past, these hidden gems are shaking up some of the best cocktails on the Coast, minus the crowds and influencer overload.
If you like your drinks served with a little mystery & a lot of personality, these might be the spots for you.
1. Loborn Distillery (Mt Tambourine)
From the moment you arrive at the tasting room located at the stunning Mt Tambourine, there’s this warm, grounded energy that sets the tone for a slower, more intentional kind of experience.
Think handcrafted spirits, local ingredients, and a team that’s seriously passionate about the craft. It’s rustic but refined, with copper stills, timber details, and the soft hum of good music (and even better conversation).
This isn’t just a quick tasting stop, it’s the kind of place you settle into. Pull up a seat at the bar, chat to the makers themselves, and sip your way through their small-batch gins, vodkas, and experimental seasonal drops.
• Excellent spirits made on site with a focus on local ingredients & we love their Amaro.
• Meet the makers- the Loborn team are always keen to share their process and passion.
• Laidback but luxe, it’s a beautiful spot for an afternoon escape, perhaps with lunch beforehand at the neighbouring Picnic Real Food Cafe.
If you’re looking to sip something special and soak up some true hinterland soul, Loborn Distillery needs to be on your radar.
2. Wildflower Gin Distilling (Varsity Lakes)
Hidden in an unassuming corner of Varsity, Wildflower is a small batch gin distillery that also moonlights as a laidback bar.
Sit at the bar, chat with the distillers, and sip on seasonal cocktails infused with native ingredients.
Why go: Local gin, low key vibes, and creative combinations.
Our fave: Native Gin Negroni or the Bee’s Knees (made with their house honey gin).
3. Last Night on Earth (Southport)
Vibe: Dive bar meets city cool
It’s giving punk rock, divey energy, with surprisingly good cocktails and a ‘come as you are’ attitude. Hidden upstairs on Scarborough Street, LNOE is full of dark corners, neon lights, and zero pretension.
Why go: Strong drinks, loud tunes, and a late-night scene that’s still local.
Our fave: The Pickleback or their house rum punch.
4. Rosella’s Bar (Burleigh Heads)
Vibe: Retro Aussie kitsch meets cheeky cocktails
Okay, maybe not a total secret, but still criminally underrated. Rosella’s is where Australiana meets mixology. Vegemite martinis, Fairy Bread G&Ts, and plenty of “wait, is that a twistie garnish?”
Why go: It’s different, it’s hilarious, and the drinks are genuinely good.
Try this: Fairy Bread Sour or the Lamington Negroni.
5. Nightjar (Burleigh Heads)
Vibe: Dark, moody, locals-only energy
Blink and you’ll miss it, Nightjar is a true hidden gem tucked down a Burleigh laneway. It’s dark, gritty, and full of late-night energy with a serious focus on cocktails and a relaxed no fuss vibe.
Why go: Underground feel, great music, and no beachy fluff.
Try this: Spicy margarita or the Smoky Paloma.
6. Aloha Bar & Dining (Broadbeach)
Vibe: Tiki bar meets party paradise
Hard to find, impossible to forget. Aloha is tucked behind a neon pineapple down a little alley and once inside, it’s tropical chaos in the best way. Think tiki mugs, coconut cocktails, and DJs on weekends.
Why go: It’s quirky, hidden, and brings the fun.
Our tip: The Aloha Mai Tai or Spiked Coconut.
7. Panezski Artisan Distillery (Molendinar)
European-style sipping with local heart
One of the best-kept secrets for spirit lovers, Panezski is a small Polish inspired distillery that turns into a vibey little bar on the weekends. Expect vodka flights, charcuterie, and warm, welcoming service.
Why go: Something totally different with no big crowds, just great drinks and good company.
Our fave: Vodka sour with lemon + rosemary.
8. Destino (Sanctuary Cove)
Nestled within the picturesque Marine Village of Sanctuary Cove, Destino Wine & Cocktail Bar offers a Mediterranean-inspired retreat that seamlessly transitions from a chic homewares boutique by day to a vibrant wine and cocktail bar by night.
Mediterranean Ambience: Destino captures the essence of the Mediterranean islands, providing a tranquil setting with its light-filled interiors and stylish decor.
During the day, you can enjoy specialty Campos coffee and browse a curated selection of homewares, including furniture, fashion, and ceramics. As evening approaches, the venue transforms into a lively bar, offering an array of wines, cocktails, and tapas.
The bar boasts a selection of nearly 20 unique cocktails, such as the Mykonos Mule—a refreshing blend of vodka, lemon juice, fresh lime, lemongrass syrup, lemonade, and ginger beer.
Destino enhances the evening experience with live DJ sets on Friday and Saturday nights, creating an energetic atmosphere for guests.
9. Fig & Frankies, (Broadbeach)
Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for date night, a lively venue for catching up with friends, or a place to enjoy quality food and drinks, Fig & Frankie’s delivers on all fronts. It’s combination of delectable dishes (try the kingfish ceviche), exceptional cocktails, and inviting ambience makes it a standout spot in Broadbeach.
Whether you’re seeking a cozy spot for date night, a lively venue for catching up with friends, or a place to enjoy quality food and drinks, Fig & Frankie’s delivers on all fronts.
10. Bar Leo – (Sorrento)
A Mediterranean dream tucked away in Sorrento, Bar Leo is where coastal ease meets Euro flair. Expect fresh seafood, seasonal plates (the grilled peaches are a must), and a curated wine list that leans both local and international. It’s effortlessly stylish, perfect for a long lunch or slow sunset session.
Bonus: Happy hour runs daily from 4–6pm.
Whether you’re in the mood for dimly lit cocktails or tiki party goodness, these bars prove that the best nights usually start off the main streets of the Goldie.
