Top tipples, ciders, craft beers, spirits, cocktails, mocktails, soft drinks and everything in-between, Bundaberg knows how to create a good brew and bring the good times. Here is our go-to list of top spots to whet your whistle and sample some of the best local beverages and enjoy some of the best local drinking secrets.
Water St Kitchen - known for its fine dining fare by night and delicious breakfast and brunch by day, Water St Kitchen also has an amazing (and internationally acclaimed) wine list, spirits cabinet and cocktail menu to boot. Here you can get gin from Germany, whisky from Japan and bubbles from France, all served with the highest level of service, in beautiful glassware and a wonderful atmosphere.
Berts - walk back in time to the art deco era and you have found Bert’s, with it’s luscious emerald green couches, vintage-inspired glassware and low lighting setting the perfect scene. Named after Bert Hinkler, our aviator pioneer there is an extensive cocktails, spirits, beers and wine menu with share plates, pizza and sweets to tempt.
Kalki Moon - your go to place for an up and close experience with gin, vodka and liqueurs made right on site. Not a bar per se, but a great cellar door you can visit to kick start your bar hopping adventures. The festoon lights, barrels adorning the walls and industrial feel with the bar smack bang in the middle of the action. Opens at 10am closes at 5 weekdays, 4 Saturday and 3 Sunday.
Mollydookers, Apple Tree Creek - an extensive drinks list inspired by Canadian staples (Mike who you will see on the floor is the owner and hails from Canada). Infused vodkas, local gins, cider, amazing near and afar craft beer menu, Caesars (including one with pickle juice and one using Sriracha), a super interesting and fun drinks menu awaits.
Lighthouse Hotel, Burnett Heads - there is something about a hand painted pub sign on the exterior that is special. Only 10 minutes from the port (and a courtesy bus running frequently) you can enjoy a great selection of drinks, dining options and can sit street side under the umbrellas to immerse yourself in Burnett Heads or sit inside in the air con.
The Federal Hotel Childers - 110 years old and still standing, this old school timber hotel is smack bang in the heart of Childers, make sure you use the cowboy style swinging doors to enter!
Rosedale Tavern - technically this one is a good visit if you are on your way out of the Bundy region and exploring further afield. With her timber verandah, red roof and cream exterior the Rosedale Tavern is a beauty. Stop in for a cold beverage, play a game of pool and head back out on the road. If you want to include a night stop over, there is camping out the back available. You might even meet the resident pooch.
Woodgate Beach Hotel - cheeky g-string bar stools, a balinese inspired swing seats with custom table top shell art underneath, great menu, open till late and cold, cold beer this pub does not disappoint. You can even camp out the back and stumble home. Definite must-visit for a cold lunch time brew or while away the day with the gorgeous white sands of Woodgate stretching out in front of you.
Bargara Beach Hotel - pull up a stool on the deck, watch the waves roll in and you will truly feel on holiday. Recently renovated and a huge bar with lots of beverage options. Live music, lots of food options and good vibes.
The Club - sit out the front and watch the world go by at one of the window stools or head out the back to the huge beer garden decked out in art inspired by Bundy’s cane fires and turtles. Lots of awesome drinking options and delicious burgers, steaks and more on offer to go with your beverage of choice.
The Melbourne - if you want somewhere where rum is the speciality, the Melbourne is for you. With over 200 rums from both near and far pull up a stool and get sampling. This pub is open all the time, close to the Bundaberg CBD and has a good verandah to watch the world go by while sipping on your beverages and bar eats.
The Globe Hotel - Australia’s youngest publicans reside here - Hayden (22) and Emily (21) and it’s the kind of pub where everyone knows your name. If you want an old school bar feel this is the place to be. Pull up a stool around the bar and get comfy, you might even be able to take tickets in a meat raffle while you're at it.