Located down Fish Lane in South Brisbane, Maker is an intimate bar that channels European laneway bars and cosy Japanese drinking dens.
The interior is sleek, dark and chic with a 7.5m long pressed metal bar, subtle and moody lighting that befits the minimalist look putting the focus on the bartenders and the cocktails. Seating 18 persons inside with a total capacity of 25 with outside seating, taking a seat at the bar is where you want to be.
The name Maker pays homage to the spirit makers and winemakers whose products fill the subtly-lit back bar, bartender Edward Quatermass explains. The drink emphasis is local and seasonal, with artisan wines and top shelf spirits split in half between Australian and international.
The monthly rotating cocktail list is produce focussed and continues the theme with house-made modifiers and liqueurs using native ingredients. Known for quirky twists on classics and a playful take on cocktails, the drinks at Maker bring in unusual elements and lesser known brands and flavours to the fore.
Take the Gin – Quandong – Finger Lime – Tonic, what seems like a simple G&T at first is a complex drink that balances botanicals from the gin with bitterness from Red Okar and a sour note with quandong foam, bee pollen and finger lime vesicles which pop in the mouth as you suck them through a metal straw. Reposado Tequila gets close and personal with Cynar, watermelon, pomegranate and almond to give a flavour that marries the bitterness of the artichoke liqueur with sweet agave notes.
Should you feel like eating, the oysters behind the glass cabinet are shucked to order while a new bar food menu is on the way taking inspiration from the equally creative, Gauge restaurant, Maker’s sister venue.
With its intimate vibe and slick décor, Maker invites conversations over exceptional drinks and is idea for a date night. And if you’re an interstate visitor, nothing says “Welcome to Queensland” more than one of the house specialties, a shot of coconut Bundy with tropical fruit.
Maker
Address: Fish Lane, South Brisbane, Queensland
Hours: Tue – Sun 4pm-midnight
Photo by Cocktails & Bars – © Copyright: All rights reserved.
