Description
Death & Taxes is a moody, speakeasy-style cocktail bar tucked away on Burnett Lane—Brisbane’s oldest laneway. From the moment you spot the dramatic Grim Reaper mural and ornate wooden doors with lion-headed knockers, you know you're in for something special. Inside, the space channels a blend of London and Paris underground bar aesthetics, with rich wood panelling, low lighting, leather booths, and century-old floorboards that give it a warm, intimate atmosphere.
The bar boasts an impressive collection of over 600 spirits, displayed on a towering four-meter back bar. The cocktail menu is expertly curated, featuring around 30 inventive signatures that put creative spins on classics. Standouts include the Dr. Know-All, made with gin, snow pea, vanilla, and peppermint; the Huntsman, an Old Fashioned with scotch, apple caramel, and manzanilla; and the tropical-inspired Sleeping Giant. In addition to cocktails, there's a refined wine list and a rotating selection of beers and high-quality spirits.
While Death & Taxes doesn’t serve food, you're welcome to bring in bites from nearby eateries to pair with your drinks. Open from late afternoon into the early hours of the morning, it’s a go-to for cocktail lovers seeking quality, ambiance, and sophistication. Whether you're out for a date night or solo escape, the elegant setting and expert bartending make this one of Brisbane’s top hidden gems.