Ric’s Bar
Still as delightfully divey as ever - and now with beer on tap and good sound.
Overview
There's not a lot that can be said about Fortitude Valley indie mecca Ric's that isn't already known, but if you are in fact unfamiliar, we suggest you drop by for a guaranteed fun Saturday night — or any night of the week, really.
There truly is something for everyone here. Okay, so lovers of Pink, Ed Sheeran or football may not find it their scene, but if you're a live music fan, Ric's hosts bands and solo musicians nearly every night of the week. If eclectic DJ sets are your thing, head to the dancefloor upstairs, or if you just want to chill, head out back to two large seating areas and join the ever hip, friendly clientele for a drink. Beer, wine and spirits are available at reasonable prices.
While a change of ownership and large renovation a few years ago aroused fears Ric's would lose its unpretentious, grungy soul, we feel it only served to enhance the venue. There's now more room, a better sound system and beer on tap — and the decor is still just as delightfully divey as it ever was.
If punters are peckish or craving a coffee during the day, head next door to Ric's equally iconic cafe Fatboys, which serves breakfast and lunch daily from 7am, as well as various themed dinner menus most nights (although at time of writing, pleased be advised Fatboys currently closes early afternoon due to the Brunswick Street Mall redevelopment). The legendary $4 brekkie (well, $4 with any drink purchase — heck, still brilliant) has withstood numerous interest rate rises over the years but the Fatrics Breakfast ($12.90) is worth shelling out for too, along with many lunch delights including burgers, sandwiches ($10.90) and pizza ($14.90).
So forgo the unjust cover charge at that sterile, dubstep-peddling, dime-a-dozen club and travel to the real heart of Brisbane music. And if you're a student (or just stingy), do head in for some Thursday night discounts also.
