Sip your way through this list of the eight best bars in Hobart.
Hobart may not been known for its nightlife, but every city has its fair share of cool bars, and this Tasmanian town is no different. Whether you’re looking for the best pub in Hobart, a buzzing cocktail bar or a cosy wine bar to wind down the night, you’ll find it here!
No matter how small, Hobart has a worthy collection of cool bars and hidden gems that every tourist must visit – and every local too!
Scroll down for our list of the top eight bars in Hobart:
NOTE: Due to COVID-19 some venues may be temporarily closed. Please see respective websites for more information.
Image by Wine Dharma via Unsplash.
Rude Boy
From the Caribbean to Tasmania, this quaint Hobart bar has one of Australia’s best rum collections. Seriously, it’s been voted! Rude Boy has such a great collection of the spirit that they had to create a separate menu called ‘Rum Journal’. As their website states: “Inspired by our founder’s Cuban adventure, Rude Boy is two quarts Cuban passion, one-quart Rastafarian coolness and a generous dash (or two) of rude boy boldness.” Is the pirate life for you? Here, you’ll find delicious cocktails on tap along with traditional classics like Daquiris and Piña Coladas ($19) Also, don’t forget to peruse their intimate lunch and dinner menu. Arrr… me hearties!
Image by Shirota Yuri via Unsplash.
Bar Wa Izakaya
Konnichiwa, Hobart! Ogenkidesuka? You’ll be even better when you visit this lovely bar and restaurant, featuring a grand selection of Japanese whiskies and beers. Bar Wa Izakaya have also got a few delectable cocktails up their sleeve, along with a delicious restaurant offering a wide array of Japanese dishes to feast on. From gyoza and sashimi, to a dedicated ramen noodle bar, you will surely not go hungry here. Nor will you leave completely sober – unless you’re driving!
Image by Raphael Bernhart via Unsplash.
Preachers
Preachers is a bar like no other; it is situated in and around a cottage that is heritage listed and serves up some seriously good drinks and food. Their dining menu caters for vegans, vegetarians, coeliacs and good old-fashioned carnivores. Oh, and let’s not forget the bus parked out the back for patrons to sit and tipple in. We told you it was cool. For those who love a good brew, this place has a seasonal list of tap and bottled beer, while serving up tasting events on a randomly regular basis. To keep track, we recommend keeping an eye on their Facebook page. Head in on a Wednesday night for bingo on the bus.
Image by becauz gao via Shutterstock.
Void Bar
It’s a rarity for a museum to play host to after-hours festivities, let alone a bar with an extensive list of cocktails, beers, wines, spirits and tasting flights – but that’s Void Bar for you. As part of your entry ticket to the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA), you can travel down to the third floor and grab an intoxicating tipple during your walk around.They claim to serve some of the best cocktails in the southern hemisphere, and boast live music in winter.
Image by Kyryll Ushakov via Unsplash.
IXL Long Bar
Nestled inside the confines of The Henry Jones Hotel is the IXL Long Bar, offering either a connoisseur’s dream or a traditionalist’s nightmare. Their beer, wine and spirits list respects the island of Tasmania, while still managing to traverse the world’s most intriguing destinations. But what makes this place extra cool is their dedication to making truly unique cocktails. On a cold day, we recommend nothing better than the hot Island of Fire cocktail ($20), with a warming blend of Deviant Distillery Single Malt, Lark Slainte Whisky Liqueur, aromatic bitters and cinnamon. Can you get any more Tassie that that?
Brooke St Pier. Image by Steve Lovegrove via Shutterstock.
The Glass House
Featuring a gorgeous 280-degree backdrop of Sullivans Cove, this stunning bar is almost a proper glass house that floats atop the calm waters of the River Derwent. At night The Glass House glows, offering a beacon for the boats that dock and the tipplers of Hobart seeking a new spot. It’s the kind of place you want to rock up to the bar and say “surprise me with something bittersweet”, and you know they’ll deliver. That’s not to mention the fresh-as-you-get seafood menu, including the Raw Bar where you can sip your cocktail and watch chefs prepare your food in front of you.
Mac01 Hotel Exterior. Image by willowtreehouse via Shutterstock.
Story Bar
Part of the stunning MACq 01 Hotel, the Story Bar is pretty fancy in its own right, boasting breathtaking views of the River Derwent. They focus on the history of Tasmania’s people and nature for inspiration, so it’s the perfect place to get to know both. Sip into a locally-brewed beer or sample a distinguished cocktail while taking in this stunning setting. It’s the perfect spot for a drink and some proper storytelling.
Pints of Lager in a pub. Image by bmszealand via Shutterstock.
Hope and Anchor Tavern
Heritage listed and featuring a fully-functioning fireplace; Hope and Anchor Tavern is conveniently located just a touch away from the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery and is also one of Australia’s oldest taverns. Visit during the mid-afternoon when it’s less busy and feast your eyes on the memorabilia showcased on the walls. You’ll be greeted by stuffed animals, swords and rifles, and a good handful of boat paintings. And as you wade through the years of history, make sure to dive even deeper into the atmosphere with their selection of fine brews, wines and spirits.
Looking for some more delicious recommendations in Tasmania? If you’re planning a trip, you have to check out our Ultimate Hobart Travel Guide or perhaps you’ll fancy a road trip to Cradle Mountain. Or, if you’re a local, tell us where we’ve missed from our top 10 steaks in Hobart.
