Death and Taxes Brisbane

On the outside, Death and Taxes leans into its name — the first part, at least. Painted black, the Burnett Lane venue is presided over by a giant mural of the grim reaper, as well as a wall filled with lions. Complete with carved wooden doors with lion door knockers, as well as a deck seating area, it's an entrance that makes a statement.

Step inside, and the dark colours continue. Eager drinkers will also find leather armchairs, padded green booths, mosaic tiling, wooden floors and lit candles, befitting the site's old-school whiskey bar feel. The heritage-listed site dates back to 1824, so part of that vibe just comes naturally with the territory. The overall relaxed, classic, inviting and eclectic atmosphere is only part of Death and Taxes' appeal, though.

A wall filled with 500 whiskeys (and whiskies) causes plenty of excitement on its own, naturally. Rove your eyes across the lines of bottles behind the bar, choose one, and start sipping your whiskey of choice. A hefty selection of gin and rum also awaits. And, if you're after something boozy but lighter, you can opt for wine, sparkling or a range of beer on tap.

If you're a cocktail fan, you won't be disappointed either — there are 12 pages of options to choose from, including new takes on old favourites and more creative options. The Green Man combines two types of whiskeys, dry white port, pandan and crème de menthe, while Forlorn Foundling features Glenfiddich 12-year-old scotch, vermouth, white peach, amontillado, maple syrup and lemon. With all these stellar options, Brisbane's Death and Taxes is a spot you come back to over and over again.

Updated August 17, 2021.