Barry Parade Public House
122 Barry Parade, Fortitude Valley
@barryparadeph
Nestled between the polished corporate towers of Brisbane’s CBD and the lively, eclectic chaos of Fortitude Valley is a little slice of Meanjin that’s a bit of everything. Three mates recently found the sweet spot on Barry Parade—technically in The Valley—where they’re serving up more than just great drinks.
Barry Parade Public House is the brainchild of Brennen Eaton (Alba Bar & Deli, The Gresham), Dan Gregory (Evolve Hobart, The Gresham, Eau de Vie), and their mate Lachlan Henry. The bar has grown from their desire to contribute something meaningful to Brisbane’s vibrant hospitality scene, showcasing their skills and creating a space that gives back to its patrons. The trio is committed to upholding the joy and integrity of hospitality by fostering comfort, sharing their knowledge, and keeping things delightfully simple. With this kind of hospo pedigree at the helm, Barry Parade Public House (BPHH) is sure to become a staple of the Brisbane scene.
With Gregory’s deep roots in Australian bartending (he recently left a long tenure at The Gresham and was Bartender magazine’s 2017 Bartender of the Year), you can expect a stellar cocktail menu. The drinks are modern classics, crafted in sync with Brisbane’s seasons, and feature ingredients that reflect a genuine respect for local provenance—a standard, not a gimmick. It’s a tight list of just seven drinks, including the Old Pal (Rye, Dry Vermouth, and Campari) and the Perfect Day, a twisted rum sour featuring Flor de Caña rum, Dry Curaçao, passionfruit, lemon, and aquafaba.
But cocktails aren’t the only draw here. Brennen and Dan’s wealth of experience shines through in their wine list and beer selection, with equal care and attention given to all offerings. While BPPH may be considered a cocktail bar thanks to the impressive résumés of its owners, it also caters to those who appreciate a wine bar’s credibility and a top-notch beer selection. And expect to see a collection of rare vintage spirits on the backbar, thanks to Gregory’s painstaking collecting over nearly two decades.
The kitchen serves up essential snacks, blending European influences with Creole flair. As the bar settles into its vibe, the menu will evolve, but for now, crowd favourites include freshly sliced charcuterie, Louisiana-style gumbo, and the quirky hit—chips of the day (think retro favourites like Toobs, which were a huge hit on opening night).
The building itself is a hidden gem, much like the trio who run it. Built in the late 1920s, the space has kept its terrazzo flooring, while the team has added warmth with wooden panelling, green walls, and native floral touches. It’s both a fresh start and a tribute—a love letter to the industry they adore. And if you’re curious, make sure to ask the staff about the chandelier in the back booth—there’s a great story behind it.
Barry Parade Public House is set to become a beloved spot, where comfort, quality, and community come together. The bar is open Tuesday to Sunday until midnight.