Darwin’s cocktail delights

Espresso martinis, sangria blanco, mojitos… thirsty yet? Darwin local and guest blogger Rebecca gives us the lowdown on the city’s top five spots to indulge in a cocktail or three.

Territorian’s love a frothy, but it’s not just a beer that tickles our fancy. Darwin’s bartenders are busy shaking and muddling sophisticated cocktails for the more discerning drinker. Here’s my insider’s guide to Darwin’s best tipples:
Deck Bar
The Deck Bar is one of my favourite watering holes in Darwin. It offers spectacular views of Parliament House while I have a quaff of my delicious Strawberry Collins and Breakfast martini made by the wonderful Beverage Manager, Josie.

This place is bustling hub for backpackers and locals alike during the dry season but I love heading here all year around. It’s the premiere party destination with in-house DJs gracing the decks at thumping Sunday sessions.

This is one of Darwin’s most renowned venues, which champions some of the most knowledgeable mixologists. They certainly know a thing or two about designing the best gin based cocktails around town. Chill out on the spacious deck, kaffir lime infused gin cocktail in hand and chat with the locals.

Nirvana Restaurant & Bar
This is one of Darwin’s best-kept cocktail secrets and truly a diamond in the rough. Nirvana is nestled away in a quieter part of town and has an exuberant essence unlike other Darwin venues. Enter a world of the exotic and perch on plush leather couches.

Nirvana’s laid-back vibe fosters a creative and boutique bar culture. I love watching the mixologists muddling and whisking away behind the rustic wooden bar. My favourite is the saffron martini. Light-weights beware- it sure is a party-starter! Clap away to the hip-shaking belly dancer and her samurai sword prop for an amazing night out.

Char
Char Restaurant and Grill is my favourite afternoon indulgence and set amongst the heritage listed Admiralty House. I love to lounge on the luxurious outdoor sofas and sip my strong negroni. It certainly takes me back to Vernazza’s kaleidoscope coloured buildings on the Cinque Terre.

The passionfruit martini concoction is equally as delightful. Locals mingle under the glamorous Moet umbrellas on the astro-turf after work. Champagne lovers rejoice! Char boasts the most extensive champagne and sparkling wine in Darwin and is the epitome of understated elegance.

Viva La Vida
This establishment is a newbie but has definitely already made its mark. Viva La Vida is the perfect spot to quench your thirst with their signature sangria blanco and great varieties of Pimms Cups after a stifling Darwin day.

The uber-chic interior design is perfect to chill-out with views of Raintree Park. The live music is the perfect accompaniment as you sit back and nibble on a mezze plate. I love their watermelon martinis and espresso martinis lovingly poured by Viva’s mixologists.

Lagoon Bar
Lagoon Bar at SKYCITY Darwin is where poolside luxe meets tropical bliss. I savour the extra fresh mojitos reminiscent of my time in Cuba and the salsa-dancing streets of Havana. This is one of SKYCITY’s newest bars that opened along with the Resort last year. The Lagoon bar evokes the true Territorian lifestyle and a great place for Sunday afternoon drinks. Linger here and take in the spectacular lagoon pool.