First Look: Stanley at Howard Smith Wharves Has Transformed Its Second Level Into a Hong Kong-Inspired Lounge Bar

A night out at at one of Brisbane's top restaurants doesn't have to start or end with dinner. An evening at Stanley, the Cantonese go-to at Howard Smith Wharves, will soon be able to expand beyond your meal without leaving the premises, in fact. While there's no change to the eatery's operations downstairs in its heritage-listed 1930s-era former water police building by the river, the restaurant's upstairs space is relaunching as a new lounge bar called Stan's.

Accordingly, of the city's best places to eat is about to become one of its must-visit places for a drink as well. Stanley announced its new addition early in September 2024, and will open the doors at Stan's on Thursday, October 3. So, when you're not tucking into a feast of dishes on the ground level — including yum cha daily for lunch — you'll want to head up a floor for beverages over snacks in a newly transformed part of the site.

At Stan's, the vibe and the decor take inspiration from Hong Kong — and the idea is to mix old-world touches with modern flourishes as well. Think: jewel-hued furnishings and decor, such as rich red seating and velvet curtains in emerald tones; dark and moody lighting; antique mirrored wall panels, including the back bar; timber aplenty as accents; hand-painted mural walls across the private lounge; and aged brass cocktail tables to sit at.

This is also a place to make shapes or simply enjoy DJ-spun tunes, thanks to a vintage JBL sound system. The promise for the music choices: extensive and eclectic. The bar will have folks on the decks most evenings, and also host album listening sessions in the middle of the week. Turning the space into a late-night dance floor is encouraged.

Naturally, cocktails feature prominently on the beverage list — and the approach here is classic-meets-new, too. Martinis and daiquiris are highlights, with the signature martini menu letting patrons pic their gins or vodkas, bitters and extracts to taste. If you're just after spirits and you have some cash to splash, a collection of vintage tipples from around the world, some dating from as far back as the 60s, is also a drawcard. You'll find the range of rare drops on display in a custom-built cabinet.

Stanley Executive Chef Louis Tikaram isn't just focusing on the main restaurant downstairs when Stan's begins trading. He's whipped up a new range of Cantonese bites just for the upper floor, designed to match the beverages. Options span steamed lobster and truffle dumplings, rolled peking duck pancakes and painted tropical crayfish, ensuring the venue's luxe vibes come through in its food offering.

"My aim was to design a menu to complement the vibrant energy of Stan's, with every dish crafted to elevate your experience — bringing refined Cantonese flavours to life in a way that feels modern, approachable, and perfect for sharing alongside great music and drinks," explains Tikaram.

"We've reimagined a space that captures the charm of Hong Kong's past while delivering an unforgettable bar experience where people can come together to enjoy exceptional drinks, food, music and service. It's an elevated offering while keeping the fun front and centre. We can't wait to welcome everyone to Stan's," adds Stanley and Howard Smith Wharves owner Adam Flaskas.

Now start imagining how Stan's will fit into the newly announced development plans for HSW, which — if approved — include a second hotel, a new music hall, and an overwater pool.

Find Stan's on level two at Stanley, Howard Smith Wharves, 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane, from Thursday, October 3, 2024 — open Monday–Thursday 3pm–1am and Friday–Sunday 12pm–1am. Head to the venue's website for more details.