No Ticket, No Worries! Brisbane’s Best Bars To Watch The NRL Final
Kick ons sorted!
Brisbane will play host to a momentous occasion this Sunday – the first NRL Grand Final in the game’s 114-year history to take place outside of Sydney. Tickets for the hottest show in town are sold out, but there’s no need to fret. Whether you’re a Panthers or Rabbitohs fan, or a neutral just keen to see history being made, there are plenty of great venues dotted around Brisbane to soak up the atmosphere and catch all the action on the big screen. We’ve rounded up our top picks across the city – don’t forget to book ahead!
For a full-on footy fan fest…
A short kick for touch from Suncorp Stadium, Caxton Street will be at the heart of pre, during, and post-game celebrations as it hosts a range of entertainment and footie-inspired events throughout the day. The area is home to numerous bars and restaurants, catering for all tastes.
The Caxton Hotel will be turning its carpark into a big beer garden on game day, complete with a giant screen, and is offering a special Grand Final menu for $89 per person. Post-match, there’ll be a DJ playing all of the classic tunes this legendary venue is known for!
Just along the street, the renowned Gambaro Seafood Restaurant is laying on a hot and cold seafood platter and drinks package for $195 per person, as well as a special Game Day a la carte menu.
Across the road, revellers can join the biggest Grand Final viewing party in Brisbane at the Lord Alfred Hotel, which will be going live and loud for 11 hours to mark the occasion.
For river city views…
You’re never far from the Brisbane River while in the city centre, and its banks are host to a number of venues that will be getting in on the big game action.
Located at Eagle St Pier, Riverland will be laying on fresh street food, smooth drinks, and big game atmosphere while laying on great views of the bustling Brisbane River.
Across the river, the 17 hectares of lush parklands and inner-city beach at South Bank boasts plenty of venues and activities, making it a perfect place to base yourself to stay and play on Grand Final day. The area has something for the whole family, including an adventure play park and gardens to explore. South Bank Beer Garden will be offering its usual range of beers, cocktails, and casual dining options on the day, as well as a range of deals on drinks and food while the game is screened live and loud.
One of Brisbane’s hottest entertainment districts, Howard Smith Wharves, sits on the waterfront below the iconic Storey Bridge and is a firm favourite with footie fans throughout the season. Grand Final night is set to be no different when Felons Barrel Hall’s riverfront outdoor area will be bouncing with the sights and sounds of the Rabbitohs and Panthers going head-to-head!
You won’t have far to go if you want a change of venue and a cocktail after the NRL action is over, with Mr Percival’s less than a two-minute walk along the boardwalk. It’s Brisbane’s newest overwater bar and delivers great views of the city once the sun goes down and the lights come on.
For heritage venues getting in on the action…
Some of Brisbane’s longest established and most famous venues are also playing their part by screening the city’s moment of NRL history. Located across from the fabulous setting of Roma Street Gardens, the Transcontinental Hotel has seen a lot since it was established in 1888. Why not head along and be part of the latest chapter in its history and enjoy its range of gastro-pub food, local beers, craft beers, and signature cocktails as you take in the game.
Often described as Brisbane’s ‘most iconic venue’, the Regatta Hotel is putting on a party atmosphere across the day, with live music in the Courtyard between 2pm and 6pm, and a DJ to get the celebrations going from 9pm. Offering a range of distinct bars and restaurants on its premises, the 145-year-old Regatta Hotel is undoubtedly one of Brisbane’s most popular spots to mark a great occasion.
So, even if you don’t have a sought-after ticket for Suncorp Stadium on Sunday there really is no excuse for missing out on watching the big game and experiencing some traditional Brisbane hospitality while you do it!
You might not be on the field, but the excitement is bound to work up an appetite, so make sure to check out Brisbane’s seven must-try dishes while you’re in town here.
