Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
21/08/2025
MB, Pexels
Hobart's evolving bar scene, while perhaps not as extensive as larger mainland cities, offers a curated selection of quality drinking venues, often highlighting Tasmania's renowned local produce and spirits.
Entertainment and Music:
Hobart's music and entertainment scene is evolving, offering a culturally rich experience that complements its relaxed charm, with a focus on quality live performances and diverse venues.
For consistent live music, Republic Bar & Cafe in North Hobart frequently hosts local and touring bands with various styles throughout the week. Alternatively, In The Hanging Garden provides a broader cultural precinct experience with an outdoor setting and live music events.
1. Evolve Spirits Bar
Type: Spirits and Cocktail Bar
Stepping into Evolve Spirits Bar, one is immediately struck by its stylish and historic ambiance, which includes unique elements like dinosaur fossils. It feels like a world-class lounge, perfect for those who appreciate a vast collection of premium spirits, including many local Tasmanian offerings. The atmosphere is sophisticated, ideal for a refined evening drink.
Getting There: Located within the MACq 01 Hotel on Hunter Street, this bar is easily within walking distance of Hobart's waterfront and central business district.
2. Mary Mary
Type: Cocktail Bar
Nestled within an old hospital building, Mary Mary provides an intimate and refined setting. The dark wood, leather, and brass accents create a classic cocktail bar feel. The focus here is on creative concoctions crafted with locally sourced indigenous ingredients and artisanal Tasmanian spirits, offering a unique taste of the island.
Getting There: Situated at 2a Salamanca Place, Mary Mary is conveniently located in the bustling Salamanca area, making it easily accessible on foot from much of central Hobart.
3. Sonny
Type: Wine Bar
Sonny is a compact, yet vibrant wine bar that exudes a cool, communal atmosphere with exposed brick and flickering candlelight. It boasts an extensive and ever-changing list of Tasmanian wines, encouraging a relaxed, shared experience. It's a place where one can comfortably settle in for a glass or extend the evening with small plates.
Getting There: Found on Elizabeth Street in Hobart's CBD, Sonny is centrally located and easily reachable by walking from many city centre accommodations.
4. Manky Sally's
Type: Craft Beer Bar / Luxury Dive Bar
Manky Sally's offers a distinctive 'luxury dive bar' experience, reflecting its connection to MONA (Museum of Old and New Art). The interior is artistic and a little subversive, featuring a dark yet appealing fit-out. It serves as the taphouse for Moo Brew, MONA's beer label, with a wide selection of craft beers, as well as cocktails and spirits.
Getting There: Located on the ground floor of 25 Salamanca Place, this venue is easily walkable within the popular Salamanca precinct.
5. Hope and Anchor Tavern
Type: Historic Pub
As Australia's oldest continuously licensed pub, established in 1807, the Hope and Anchor Tavern offers a tangible link to Hobart's rich history. It maintains an old-world charm with heritage architecture and a welcoming atmosphere. This venue is ideal for experiencing a traditional pub setting while enjoying an extensive selection of local craft beers, wines, and ciders.
Getting There: Situated at 65 Macquarie Street in the Hobart CBD, the Hope and Anchor Tavern is conveniently located and easily accessible on foot from the city centre and waterfront.
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