Fruit punch at the Ipswich Club
The cocktail: Fruit punch cocktail
The venue: One of the oldest organisations in Ipswich, The Ipswich Club is an absolutely beautiful venue. This one should be high up on everyoneʼs list of things to do when visiting the city on a Friday afternoon. Everything about The Ipswich Club exudes elegance and sophistication. You canʼt help but feel like youʼve been transported back in time whilst walking through the grounds.
Purple jacaranda flowers surround the old house in spring and provide a stunning backdrop for a peaceful afternoon of tapas from noted local chef Fenton Keogh – well known for the much-loved French restaurant he ran in this city for many years – and cocktails. The fruit punch cocktail was almost too pretty to drink, however I drank every last drop and admittedly, went back for another.
Fenton’s at the Ipswich Club is open for cocktails and tapas every Friday from 4-10pm.
Pumpyard’s Popcorn Pina Colada
The cocktail: Popcorn Pina Colada – coconut rum, pineapple, popcorn.
This is a must-visit location in Ipswich – Pumpyard Bar & Brewery, the home of 4 Hearts Brewing, in the beautiful old cluster of heritage buildings known as 88 Limestone St. Pumpyard is known for its brews made on site – in fact the bar is situated in the brewing room – and its relaxed vibe.
It’s the perfect spot for a couple of quiet drinks and there is often live music on a Sunday afternoon. You can even bring you dog along when you’re sitting at an outdoor table in the laneway. The brewery has an extensive line up of local beers but in my opinion an equally
impressive cocktail menu. The bar tenders insisted that I try the Popcorn Pina Colada and I have to say I was not dissapointed.
Passionfruit Mojito at the Orion
Whether you are wanting to have a drink and a dance with friends, or are looking for a child-friendly venue where you can enjoy a night out with the whole family, the Orion Hotel in Springfield can accommodate your needs. Everyone will be entertained with the outdoor area sporting a DJ deck, as well as a large area for the kids to play in.
An impressive cocktail list made it hard to choose, however with the weather heating up I couldnʼt look past the summery flavours of the Passionfruit Mojito. I will most definitely be back in the near future for a Sunday sesh.
Also good to know…
Did you know Ipswich is also home to the biggest craft beer bar in the southern hemisphere? At the award-winning Tap’d Bar at the PA Hotel you’ll find 72 beers and ciders on tap at any one time!
For a whole lot more cafe, restaurant and bar options across this region see the large list at discoveripswich.com.au