Darwin is brimming with chances to have a blast this year. Let’s discover the vibrant nightlife together. Darwin’s nightlife scene is hopping, and there are plenty of pubs to keep the good times going as you quench your thirst. From rooftop views to hidden speakeasies, 2024 has brought a fresh wave of excitement to Darwin’s bar scene.
Looking for the best places for a cold beer after work? Are you looking for a posh place for wine? We’ve got everything you need on this list. So, let’s dive right in and explore the best pubs and bars that the city has to offer.
1. The Deck
Guests can indulge in The Deck’s renowned daily Happy Hour while relishing Darwin’s delightful nightlife outdoors, accompanied by live music on the deck. The venue accommodates an extensive range of patrons, offering both snug corners and a lively bar atmosphere.
The abundant natural light, verdant foliage, and tasteful decor all come together to create a welcoming ambiance. Their dedicated and amiable staff guarantees a top-notch experience throughout your visit,
Address: 22 Mitchell Street, Darwin CBD, 0800
Contact: (08) 8942 3001
Website: thedeckbar.com.au
2. Shenannigans
Situated in the heart of Darwin town, Shenannigans, affectionately known as ‘Shags’ among locals, remains a beloved establishment for both residents and tourists. Boasting a 21-year legacy, Shags invites patrons to relax on its terrace, savoring a pint while observing the world’s comings and goings, watching games with friends, and relishing Irish pub classics.
Address: 1/69 Mitchell St Darwin, NT 0820
Contact: (08) 8989 2100
Website: shenannigans.com.au
3. Monsoons Restaurant & Party Bar
Step inside Monnies, where mouthwatering burgers from Miss Pickle and flowing drinks await all guests. Whether you’re lounging in the vibrant beer garden, savoring a parmy in the main bar, or enjoying cocktails indoors with refreshing air conditioning and stunning Mitchell Street views, good vibes reign supreme.
Darwinians have gathered, mingled, and crafted unforgettable memories within Monsoons, the Northern Territory’s most iconic Darwin pub for over a decade.
Address: 46 Mitchell Street Darwin City NT 0800
Contact: (08) 8989 2171
Website: monsoonsdarwin.com.au
4. The Precinct Tavern
The Precinct Tavern has been a beloved local pub since it first opened its doors in October 2012. With an Award-Winning Beer Garden offering ample outdoor seating, it’s the ideal spot to unwind.
This establishment boasts three bars where patrons can indulge in craft beer, quality wines, and delightful cocktails and relish modern pub cuisine crafted from the freshest local ingredients. The Precinct Tavern has recently introduced a Gaming Lounge and TAB, promising top-notch service and a wide array of machine options, making it the ultimate gaming destination.
Address: 7 Kitchener Drive Darwin City, NT 0800
Contact: (08) 8941 9000
Website: theprecincttavern.com.au
5. The Trader Bar
As patrons pass beneath an inviting archway of vines and step through a sturdy steel door, they enter The Trader Bar. Here, you have an expansive menu featuring an array of gins, cocktails, and wines, making it the perfect destination for a leisurely afternoon that might extend into the evening.
Guests can relax in the lush green outdoor space or find a comfortable stool within the stylish industrial interior. Friday nights come alive with a rotating lineup of talented DJs.
Address: 3 Harriet Pl Darwin City 0800
Contact: 0498 766 181
Website: thetraderbar.com
6. Stone House Wine Bar & Kitchen
The establishment boasts an extensive wine list that spans the globe, offering a balanced selection of both top-tier and approachable wine styles. Beyond its timeless décor and a remarkable wine collection of 300 labels, Stone House Wine Bar & Kitchen carries a rich historical legacy.
This building has endured wartime challenges, including an unexploded bomb in the backyard and Japanese bombing during World War II. With such captivating stories, Stone House is a venue where lasting memories are forged.
Address: 33 Cavenagh St, Darwin City NT 0800
Contact: +61 481 069 657
Website: stonehousedarwin.com.au
7. Charlie’s of Darwin
Upon entering this establishment, guests are greeted by a beautifully illuminated wooden bar adorned with rows of glistening spirits while comfortably weathered brown leather couches beckon. The ambiance might momentarily transport you to a Melbourne speakeasy. However, as you savor a sip of Charlie’s locally distilled gin, infused with hints of Kakadu plums, Palmerston rosellas, water lilies, and native lemongrass.
Step out into the outdoor area adorned with lanterns reminiscent of Southeast Asia, and the unmistakable realization dawns upon you – you’ve arrived in a distinctly tropical locale at this remarkable bar.
Address: 56 Smith Street, Darwin NT
Contact: (04) 8824 6880
Website: charliesofdarwin.com.au
8. Oyster Bar
At the Oyster Bar, patrons can settle comfortably at one of the waterside tables within the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. The bar has a delectable shellfish extravaganza featuring Coffin Bay oysters prepared in a variety of mouthwatering styles (natural, Kilpatrick, Thai, and even with caviar).
The menu also boasts house-pickled octopus, coconut-crumbed prawns, tantalizing pork belly bites, and popcorn crocodiles, all served with a side of salad and bush tomato relish, creating a seafood feast like no other. Coordinate your arrival to align with the daily happy hour, and complement it with a glass of rose sangria featuring rhubarb and ginger-infused gin. opt for one of their Bloody Marys, where you can choose to include an oyster for an added twist.
Address: Tenancy E6 Darwin City Waterfront 19 Kitchener Drive Darwin NT 0800
Contact: (08) 8981 2242
Website: oysterbar.com.au
Other Great Places
- Dom’s Bar
- Hotel Darwin Sports Bar
- The Iconic Humpty Doo Hotel
Final Thoughts
As we bid farewell to our tour of the best bars in Darwin, it’s clear that this vibrant city has a nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Whether you’re sipping cocktails by the waterfront, enjoying hand-crafted beers from a tank and tap in a leafy garden, or exploring unique gin concoctions, Darwin’s bars offer memorable experiences.
From traditional Irish pubs to modern wine bars, this eclectic mix ensures there’s something for everyone. So, if you’re a local or a visitor, don’t miss the chance to indulge in Darwin’s buzzing bar culture, where great times and good vibes await. Cheers!