About Brisbane Hotel
The Brisbane Hotel (3 Brisbane Street, West Hobart) is a long‐running pub and live music venue at the heart of Hobart’s alternative scene . Housed in a heritage‐style corner building with two main bar areas , the Brisbane is known as “Hobart’s home of alternative music” and fringe art . For over a decade it’s been an “institution” for locals, hosting local and international bands in a laid‐back, inclusive environment . Signature features include a large stage, pinball and pool tables, and even quirky activities like bingo and “krackieoke” (karaoke with scratch tickets) . Its back yard with yard-darts—in which punters literally throw darts outdoors—adds to the bar’s fun, underground vibe . This rough-and-ready pub contrasts with more polished inner-city venues, making it beloved by Hobart’s “outer-dweller” crowd . The atmosphere is often described as non-mainstream and progressive, a grassroots platform for both local talent and travelling artists .
Events and Programming
Live entertainment is the core of the Brisbane Hotel. Most evenings see live music on one of the two stages . The venue caters especially to rock, punk, metal, and indie acts: for example, touring bands like Northlane, In Hearts Wake, Polaris, Camp Cope and Alpha Wolf have headlined shows here . DJs and electronic artists also appear regularly – when a band isn’t playing, the other bar often features alternative and house DJs . In addition to bands and DJs, the Brisbane hosts regular comedy nights (branded “CULT Comedy”) showcasing local talent . Novelty events like pub quizzes, scratch-card karaoke (“krackieoke”), and theme evenings pop up in the calendar as well . On a typical week you might see a mix of local bands on weeknights and bigger touring acts on weekends. The venue draws music fans almost every night: one local guide notes that the Brisbane “offers up, every week, a great line-up of bands and acts” across rock and alternative genres .
Tickets and Booking
Many shows at the Brisbane Hotel are casual door-entry affairs. For most nights you can simply turn up at the pub – many gigs are free or require only a small cover charge at the door . A cover fee (often around $5–$15) may apply on nights with bigger touring acts . Major concerts or headline shows sometimes use online ticketing or advance sales, but generally there is no centralized box office. It’s best to check local event listings or the venue’s announcements, and arrive early for popular shows to avoid queues. The pub phone number (03 6234 4920) is listed on Eventfinda, though many events sell out informally. There are no assigned seating tickets – entry is usually general admission. If a show does require a ticket, it is often handled through local promoters or outlets (the Brisbane has no traditional “ticket window” of its own). In summary, plan on paying at the door same night, and expect modest pricing on tickets unless otherwise specified.
Seating and Layout
Inside the Brisbane Hotel you’ll find two main bar rooms. At peak times one of these bars is dedicated to live performances while the other serves as a lounge/DJ area . The live-music bar has a small raised stage, and much of the floor is standing room or standing-height tables. There is no formal seating or theatre-style layout – most of the audience stands on the ground floor. A handful of high stools or bench seating may be available along the walls and at tables, but the experience is primarily a general-admission, up-close show. For the best view during a concert, many patrons gather in front of the stage (though it can get crowded). Those who prefer a spot to chat might stand toward the rear or side, or use stools at the far end of the performance bar. Since there are only two modest-sized rooms, there is no separate VIP area – everything is ground-level and unreserved. (One benefit: with two bars, you can sometimes take a quick spectating break by moving to the other bar, where music continues.) Sound and lighting in the venue are typical for a small pub – enough for a lively show, though touring bands often bring their own gear to beef up the PA. Acoustics are intimate but can be loud (bring earplugs if you’re sensitive). Overall, the layout favors an energetic, close-up live-music vibe rather than formal seating.
Getting There and Parking
The Brisbane Hotel sits at 3 Brisbane Street, West Hobart, in the Hobart local government area . It’s about a 5–10 minute walk west of the city centre. From the CBD, drive or walk down Argyle Street or Liverpool Street past Parliament, then take a sharp left at Liverpool/Bathurst and continue west. Brisbane Street runs one block off Bathurst Street near the crest of the hill. By bus, several Metro Tasmania routes serve nearby stops (for example, services along Bathurst or Davey Street are within a few blocks). Rideshare or taxi drop-offs can be made at the corner of Brisbane and Bathurst. Parking is very limited — there’s no private lot for the pub. Street parking is available on adjacent residential streets (check signs and metres), but spaces fill up quickly on busy nights. The closest paid parking is in the city centre (Franklin Square or along Macquarie Street, roughly 500 m away). Many patrons therefore use central city car parks or public transit. Also note that Brisbane Street is narrow in places, so allow extra time if driving. Once you arrive, the bar’s front entrance is right on Brisbane Street (there is no other public-car-park entrance).
Inside the Venue
On walking in, you’ll find a classic pub atmosphere with a touch of alternative flair. The decor is unpretentious – wood-panel bars, dim lighting, band posters on the walls, and a stage. Rules and entry are straightforward: staff typically check IDs at the door for any night events and enforce the legal drinking age. You’ll need ID (18+) to buy alcohol. The bartenders pour standard venue drinks – a range of local tap beers, spirits and mixed drinks, plus wine and cider. Food is served daily: the Brisbane offers pub fares like burgers, pizzas, salads and share plates for lunch and dinner . Vegetarians and vegans are well catered for, with multiple meat-free options on the menu . Prices are modest (typical pub prices), making dinner here as well as a pint quite affordable. The pub keeps things lively: for example, during the day local artists sometimes display work on the walls . There is also a pool table and a foosball (table soccer) setup inside for patrons . Facilities: there are men’s and women’s restrooms (though note, currently no accessible wheelchair restroom – one is planned but not yet installed ). There is no cloakroom or coat check, so guests usually keep belongings at their tables or with them. Wi-Fi is not advertised (you may rely on mobile data). For convenience, the pub usually accepts both cash and cards at the bar. You won’t be able to bring outside food or drink into the venue, as it’s licensed to sell its own, and any professional photo/recording equipment is typically discouraged (phone pics are fine, but large cameras or professional video without permission should be avoided). If you smoke, the Brisbane allows smoking only in the outdoor yards; an outside area behind the pub has chairs, a heater and sets up yard darts games for fans . Overall the vibe inside is friendly and unpretentious – a bit grubby perhaps, but welcoming and egalitarian. You’ll see a mix of college students, local schlubs and longtime patrons all enjoying cheap beer and live sound. The oldest wood bar, scuffed floor, and crowd chatter give it character: this is the kind of place where “if walls could talk,” they’d tell stories of decades of Hobart culture .
Nearby Amenities
Brisbane Street is in a mixed residential/commercial area. A few doors away are small cafés and takeaways – perfect for a quick coffee or meal before a show. North Hobart’s vibrant dining strip (Elizabeth Street/Melville Street, about 5 minutes away on foot) offers pubs, breweries and fine casual restaurants for pre-show dinner or nightcaps. Within a 10–15 minute walk you’ll reach the centre of Hobart (nipaluna), where there are many more cafés (for breakfast/brunch), eateries, and hotels. For example, the area around the Lyne Street and Macquarie Street intersection has late-night food and multiple bars. If you arrive early, nearby pubs like the Melville or bistros often keep the mood going with meal specials. Late-night transport: taxis and rideshares can pick up on Bathurst or close to Macquarie Street. If you’re staying overnight, any city centre hotel (Ibis Styles Hobart, Travelodge Hobart, etc.) is only 2 km away. If the Brisbane itself is closed, the waterfront and city are less than a 5-minute drive away with plenty of after-hours bars open. In short: Brisbane Hotel is served by a rock-solid pub/food scene around West Hobart and North Hobart, and is easy to reach from Hobart’s broader hospitality precinct.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Brisbane Hotel’s charm lies in its raw authenticity and history as a grassroots music house. It really is a live-music “institution” for Hobart’s outsiders and creatives . Unlike polished city clubs, the Brisbane wears its age proudly – the building’s heritage facade and narrow venue hold stories of decades of Tasmanian youth culture . It has signature quirks: upstairs it once housed 10 simple rooms for touring bands and hosted a spooky “Haunted House” during winters . The very name “Brisbane” in Hobart evokes local lore: long‐time residents associate it with cheap beer, live hardcore shows and camaraderie. Culturally, the pub has nurtured many local artists. For example, owners proudly note that they gave early gigs to bands that later toured nationally , helping launch musicians. It’s also one of the few Hobart venues to rotate through truly alt genres, from metal to world music to queer-inclusive comedy. Local media and guidebooks praise its “inclusive and diverse atmosphere” – in one review it’s even called “progressive” and “one of the best bars in Australia” for its vibe . Often described as a bit seedy or rough around the edges , that grungey character is exactly why artists and audiences love it: they feel unconstrained and at home here. In short, the Brisbane Hotel matters to Hobart because it’s not just another pub; it’s a community hub for underground culture. It delivers genuine experiences – from impromptu jam sessions to cult movie nights to sweaty metal shows – that a faceless arena simply can’t. Its nipples-and-pink-light art on the walls, yard darts and scratch-card karaoke, and devoted regulars all give it a memorable personality. Artists love playing here for the raw energy of the crowd, and visitors remember it for its authenticity and local spirit .
Visitor Tips and Information
**Accessibility:** The Brisbane is an old building, so wide ramps or lifts are not installed yet. The doorway and main bar area have a small step up, and the restroom access is tight. The owners did a fundraising drive to add wheelchair facilities , but at present the venue is only partially accessible. If this matters to you, it’s best to phone ahead to check what’s possible.
**What to Bring:** Always carry valid photo ID (18+) if you plan to drink. The crowd is casual, so wear something you don’t mind getting a bit scuffed (boots or sneakers are good). Concert earsplugs are wise if you’re sensitive to noise. Cash or cards are fine for bar purchases (no additional coat-check fee). It’s not uncommon for the floor to get a bit spilled-on after band sets, so choose shoes with grip.
**Age Restrictions:** The Brisbane usually operates as an 18+ venue once evening shows start (this is standard for Tasmanian pubs). If you have kids, they may accompany you for an early dinner, but after licensing hours only adults drink. Most live-music nights admit 18+ only, and staff will ID anyone who looks underage. (On rare early matinee events this may vary, but always assume it’s an adults-only crowd after dark.)
**Food:** We mentioned the menu is solid pub fare . Plan to eat either at the Brisbane’s own bistro (food is served through the night) or nearby beforehand. The menu has a good range, including vegetarian and vegan options – the staff are used to dietary needs. If you have specific allergies or large group, it can help to call ahead to order pizzas or plates for your table.
**Jacket and Bag Policy:** There is no formal coat check – you can leave jackets at your table or on chairs. Security typically enforces a small bag policy, so avoid bringing large backpacks. Cameras: casual photos on phones are fine (and common at shows), but professional video cameras or extended lenses usually require permission. If you’re unsure, just ask the staff.
**Smoking:** The pub itself is non-smoking; smokers step out to the backyard. The outdoor space is cosy (with a heater and seating) and often has the yard darts waiting, so feel free to mingle there during breaks .
**Line and Tickets:** For popular bands, arrive early to avoid a line. Promoters usually sell tickets in advance via a gate or online, but many patrons just queue outside a few minutes before doors. If a cover charge is expected, someone will collect payment at the entrance. If you get turned away (rare, unless at capacity), just catch the next act another night.
**Behaviour:** There’s no strict dress code (jeans and T-shirts are the norm). The crowd is friendly—many patrons have been coming for years. Still, remember it’s a pub: be respectful at the bar and keep the volume down in quieter areas. Aggressive behavior or drugs are not tolerated (security is on hand at bigger shows). Look out for each other, especially on the way out late at night (street lighting is OK, and taxi/Uber ranks are close by).
**Nearby Transport:** After the gig, getting home is easy with taxis or ride-share from Bathurst Street. Hobart’s buses run until around midnight from the city centre; ask the driver if your stop is nearby. The venue itself closes later on weekends (often after 1am), but double-check the last call if you’re walking back.
In short: treat the Brisbane like any lively Hobart pub – come prepared for a standing-room show with friends, enjoy the cheap drinks and friendly mayhem, and soak up its unique local culture. It may be a little rough around the edges, but that’s part of its charm. Go with an open mind and you’ll likely have a memorable Tasmanian night out.
What types of events does the Brisbane Hotel host?
The Brisbane Hotel beams together an eclectic calendar. Expect loud rock and metal shows on many nights – local bands as well as touring alt/indie acts. They also do comedy nights (often called “CULT Comedy” with up-and-coming comics), plus occasional DJs, quiz nights, and novelty events like scratch-card karaoke (“krackieoke”) . It really lives up to its reputation as an alt‐music hub of Hobart.
How do I buy tickets for a Brisbane Hotel show?
Most Brisbane Hotel events don’t need advance tickets – you can often just show up and pay a cover charge at the door . For named touring acts, tickets might be sold in advance by promoters (check local event postings). When in doubt, call the venue to ask. Otherwise, plan to arrive early and pay on arrival: many concerts here are general-admission and on-site ticketing is straightforward.
Is there an entry fee or cover charge?
A cover may apply on some nights. The venue is known for cheap beer and cheap shows, so often entry is free or just a small fee (typically $5–$15) . Bigger touring acts might charge more. Check the specific event details: if a cover is required, it will usually be advertised. In general, casual concerts at the Brisbane are low-cost.
What is the street address of Brisbane Hotel?
The pub is located at 3 Brisbane Street, West Hobart (postcode 7000) in Hobart, Tasmania . It’s on Brisbane St just west of Bathurst Street. If you’re using GPS, enter “Brisbane Hotel Hobart” or the address 3 Brisbane St, Hobart. The traditional Tasmanian place name for Hobart is nipaluna, but most maps and signs use “Hobart.”
How can I get to Brisbane Hotel by public transport?
Metro Tasmania buses service West Hobart. Routes running up from the city (e.g. the 500–540 series) stop a short walk away on Bathurst or Davey Street. Plan a trip at metrotas.com.au for the best route. Once off the bus, it’s just a couple of minutes’ walk up Bathurst and onto Brisbane Street. Taxis and rideshares can also drop you at the door (the Brisbane/Bathurst corner).
Is there parking available at Brisbane Hotel?
No private parking is available on-site. There is limited street parking on Brisbane Street and nearby residential roads (often metered or time-restricted). On busy nights spaces can be hard to find. The nearest secure lots are in the Hobart CBD (e.g. Franklin Square or Macquarie Street car parks, about 5–10 minutes’ walk away). Many concertgoers prefer to use taxis or public transport for this reason.
What are the opening hours of Brisbane Hotel?
The venue’s hours can change, but typically it opens around midday or early evening on weekdays and stays open very late on weekends. For example, one local guide notes Tuesday open from noon, Wednesday–Friday noon–1 am, Saturday afternoon–4 am, and Sunday 4 pm–9 pm . Always check the latest hours (for example via phone) before planning your visit, especially on public holidays. Concerts and late-night events often start in the evening.
Is Brisbane Hotel wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the Brisbane Hotel is not fully wheelchair compliant. It’s housed in an older building, so entrance ways and restrooms are narrow and there are steps. The owners have acknowledged this and have plans to install a wheelchair-accessible toilet and ramp , but currently access is limited. If you require disability access, it’s best to call ahead and discuss, or consider alternative venues until the upgrades are finished.
Can I bring children to Brisbane Hotel?
The Brisbane is primarily an 18+ licensed pub, so children are generally not admitted to late-night shows. If you’re visiting for an early dinner or function (when family-friendly events are specifically advertised), kids may be allowed, but after licensing hours it’s adults only. In short, don’t plan on bringing anyone under 18 to an evening gig – check with staff for exceptions. Always have photo ID if there’s any question of age.
Is there a dress code or bag policy?
There’s no formal dress code. The vibe is casual and alternative – jeans, T-shirts and band tees are typical, along with boots or sneakers for concerts. No need for anything fancy. For security, large backpacks may be restricted on busy nights (small daypacks or purses are fine). Some concerts may have clear-bag policies, so it’s safest to travel light. Coat racks are minimal, so bring only what you need for the night.
Does Brisbane Hotel serve food and drink?
Yes. It’s a full pub/bar, so they serve beer, cider, wine and spirits all night. They also have a bistro menu — you can order burgers, pizzas, salads and snacks for lunch and dinner . Meals are available during shows and evenings, which is handy for dinner-and-concert. Patrons note the food is good pub grub, with lots of reasonably priced options and some very good vegetarian/vegan choices . Expect the typical pub drink range, and remember to bring cash or card for the bar.
Are there vegetarian or vegan options on the menu?
Yes, indeed. Reviews and patrons praise the vegetarian and vegan offerings at the Brisbane Hotel . The kitchen frequently has multiple meat-free pizzas, burgers, salads and sides. Whether you’re vegan or just plant-curious, you’ll have good choices alongside the regular fare. If in doubt, check the menu or ask staff – they know how to accommodate different diets.
Where can I eat or drink near Brisbane Hotel before a show?
Nearby West Hobart has a few cafés and takeaway spots for a quick bite. Just a block away is Melville Street, which has bars and cafés. A very short walk north leads you to the famous North Hobart dining strip (Elizabeth Street), known for a variety of restaurants, pubs and a brewery – ideal for pre-show meals or drinks. Both areas offer casual eats and craft beer spots. If you have time, driving or walking another 5 minutes into the CBD opens up even more eateries (and hotels) within strolling distance of the Brisbane.
What should I bring to an event at Brisbane Hotel?
Bring photo ID (you must be 18+ for alcohol), and your own comfort items. Earplugs can make loud shows more enjoyable. Wear sturdy, casual shoes – the floor can get sticky or uneven. Carry cash or card for drinks and food (both are accepted). Layers are smart: the crowd can heat up the room, but it’s good to have a jacket or shawl for walking outside between bars. Bring as little extra as possible: large bags aren’t needed and may be subject to security check.
Are photography and recording allowed at Brisbane Hotel?
Personal photography and video (from your phone) is generally fine, and many patrons snap selfies or clips. However, professional photography crews or filming should get permission from management ahead of time. Basically, fun camera use is OK but avoid big cameras or constant filming that might disturb the crowd. As always, be respectful of performers and ask if in doubt.
What is “Krackieoke” at the Brisbane Hotel?
“Krackieoke” is a uniquely Brisbane-Hotel twist on karaoke: participants sing along with music while also scratching lottery tickets (a scratch-card karaoke). It’s a novelty event that the pub has hosted in the past, combining the excitement of karaoke with the hope of winning prizes on the scratchies . It’s one example of the quirky live events this venue comes up with.
How do you play yard darts at Brisbane Hotel?
Yard darts at Brisbane Hotel is a laid-back outdoor game played in the pub’s back yard . It involves a lawn version of darts (often using large soft-tipped darts thrown at a target on the ground). It’s family-friendly and part of the pub’s charm – just head outside and join if it’s set up. Staff or locals can show you the rules. (Basically, you toss darts underhand towards a bullseye or circles, and score points.)
Can I book Brisbane Hotel for a private event?
Yes. The Brisbane Hotel can be hired for private functions, band performances or parties . It’s a popular spot for alt groups to throw their own shows because it draws a crowd. If you want to book a function (even bring your own band), it’s recommended to plan well in advance. Contact the venue directly via phone or email to discuss dates, because popular slots (especially weekends) book up fast.
Does the Brisbane Hotel offer Wi-Fi for guests?
Public Wi-Fi is not advertised at the Brisbane Hotel, and cellular service is generally your best bet. This is a traditional pub environment where people use their mobile data. (If Wi-Fi is crucial, check with staff, but most live-music bars rely on patrons’ own phones.)
