Our hearts stopped when we heard Stoke Bar was closing back in August. Where would we go for our sophisticated Sunday sessions and unbeatable views? Thankfully our panic sweats ceased when we realised that it was only a temporary closure. Stoke Bar was merely entering a chrysalis, hibernating for the remainder of winter before emerging today as new smart-casual watering hole STOKEBAR Q – just in time for spring! The savvy team at Derlot designed the new-look interiors, looking to take full advantage of the river and create more versatility in the seating arrangements, while also positioning the venue as a standalone entity – separate from its sibling restaurant. New chairs, tables and wrap-around lounge seating were fashioned to fill the larger spatial footprint, with a colour palette of warm grey, blue, green and pops of orange livening up the aesthetic. Alongside VIP lounges, STOKEBAR Q can now cater to 110 people seated, allowing for greater enjoyment of the riverside atmosphere and Brisbane City skyline.
The drinks menu at STOKEBAR Q is spearheaded by a strong cocktail list, overseen by new cocktail connoisseur Becki Parker (formerly of Soleil Pool Bar). STOKEBAR Q signatures are made with seasonal Queensland ingredients, and feature the likes of the cold-brew coffee liqueur-infused Delilah, the refreshing botanical-based Diamantina and STOKEBAR Q’s signature frosé. Classic cocktails, wines and beers also feature, while diners can snack on a new menu of bites designed by executive chef Richard Ousby. Bolognese and mozzarella jaffles, salted cod fritters, spanner crab and buckwheat noodles, soda-battered fish and chips, goats-milk haloumi and grilled minute steak feature, alongside desserts to end proceedings on a sweet note.
STOKEBAR Q is now open seven days a week. For more information, head to the Stumble Guide.