New Gin Bar Here to Conquer Brisbane

Brisbane, gather your comrades and say hello to our newest late-night eatery and bar. You may have seen construction going down on ol’ Alfred St, but surprise surprise – the new kid on the block is not part of the A&C, Alfredos, Limes and Kwan Brothers cluster – but he is certainly ready to conquer his territory.

Sourcing gin not from your grandmother’s top shelf, but from around the globe, Dutch Courage Officer’s Mess (DC for short) is here for the gin enthusiasts and out to woo new lovers. Any old-hat notions about gin shall be erased to make way for specialty gin-based cocktails and a 240-plus list of spirits and liqueurs in this British colonial-themed bar.

Owner Matthew Hilan, a former Air Combat Officer in the RAAF and former executive director for Union Bank of Switzerland, says the venue is inspired by a period in history where military formality during the day would give way to carefree partying, socialising and unwinding at night in campaign tents and mess halls.

The late-night bar will be open until late on Fridays and Saturdays featuring a share plate menu inspired by the colonial outposts of the British Empire in 19th century, and more than 240 liqueurs and spirits to wet the whistle including tasting flights and a ‘DC Passport’ to take you around the world.

Friday, June 20 is the night to start exploring – we think we’ll start with the Spice Trade Punch.