In a couple? The couch is looking pretty damn sexy right now, and that UberEats button is definitely getting a work out.
Plot twist people, you can go out AND be cosy. We’ve found our favourite winter date spots for you to try out.
MR CHESTER WINE BAR | FORTITUDE VALLEY
A bottle of red and the look of love in your eyes, Mr Chester Wine Bar is romance incarnate. With a focus on boutique, new world wines, this cosy little nook also serves up an ever-changing menu of charcuterie platters, delectable small bites and homemade pastas and pizzas. Let the staff take you through the wine list before you re-enact Lady and the Tramp over a bowl of fettuccine with pepper and parmesan – meatballs are so 2016.
NOSTIMO BAR AND RESTAURANT | SOUTH BRISBANE
As close as you can get to the Greek islands without a passport, Nostimo specialises in authentic Greek cuisine with a modern touch. Using local produce from farmers and suppliers, prepare to be romanced over barbeque octopus, fried calamari with ouzo mayonnaise, pork belly baklava and passionfruit custard wrapped in crispy oven baked filo served with passionfruit syrup. Pair your meal with a glass of Greek wine or a signature cocktail and that second date is guaranteed.
SAVILE ROW | FORTITUDE VALLEY
Until now, it’s been kind of tricky to enjoy a quiet drink in the Valley without being grinded on by a misguided 18-year-old. Thankfully, our prayers have been answered in the form of Savile Row. Much like its namesake, this beaut bar prides itself on its sophistication, but unlike its namesake, is far from pretentious. For some delicious and inventive cocktails and a chilled vibe, swing by Savile Row. It’ll re-kindle your love affair with the Valley.
LA LUNE | SOUTH BRISBANE
La Lune is South Brisbane’s favourite wine bar, purveyor of droolworthy French cuisine, and our ultimate date spot. Essentially, if you can’t afford to take your partner to Paris (we feel your pain), La Lune is the next best thing. After a few glasses of wine and some kangaroo tartare, you’ll be just as thrilled to see the Cultural Centre upon departure as you would the Eiffel Tower.
JACK RABBITS WHISKEY BAR | WOOLLOONGABBA
Looking to sweep someone off their feet? You gotta rock down to Electric Avenue (we knew that song was trying to tell us something), take a trip up the stairs and take a peak inside the antique wardrobe. No, there will be no lions or witches waiting for you on the other side, but you will have stumbled upon Jack Rabbits secret whiskey bar. Nothing screams ‘romance’ quite like dark liquor and ornate furnishings.
SALON DE CO | SPRING HILL
Equal parts cosy and art deco luxe, Salon de Co is more than just a pretty face. Make eyes over cocktails and small bites at the bar, or enjoy a decadent dinner date. Devour kingfish sashimi with plum, shiso and horseradish, potato and chive gnocchi with green sauce and manchego (just don’t get the chivey boys stuck in your teeth), and pineapple piña coladas. Indecisive? Let the chefs take charge and create a menu with your palate in mind – now THAT is romantic.
Enoteca | Woolloongabba
If you’re not cosy, sophisticated or Italian, don’t fret – Enoteca fits the bill. Impress your date over bistecca to share, Moreton Bay bugs with basil pesto cream, and a glass of liquid luck from the wine list of the month. Next thing you know the Cordero di Montezemolo’s hit their eye like a big pizza pie, and that’s amore, buddy.
Maker | South Brisbane
Before you meet your match, meet your Maker. Fish Lane’s most intimate hole-in-the-wall bar sits around 15 folks at a time, with a strong focus on cocktails and delicate eats (to help dance around the fact that your freshly healed heart is still just as delicate). Go ahead – take a chance, make a change.
Bloodhound Bar | Fortitude Valley
Picture it – a 19th century building sporting exposed brick, open fireplaces and high ceilings. That’s Mr. Steal-your-man right there. Beyond its obvious charm, Bloodhound Bar offers more relaxed dining options of burgers, jalapeño poppers, tacos and loaded fries – being the perfect comfort food to enjoy by the side of whom you’re most comfortable with. Cute.
So there you have it, Brisbane. Ladies, rug up, and gents, suit up, because date night season is upon us.
