Inspired by that golden epoch when the Beastie Boys were hollering about watered-down Yoo-hoo and Fortitude Valley was knee-deep in counter culture, Sabotage Social is promising to bring the old spirit of the ‘hood back. Crouching on the corner of Wickham and Gipps Streets, the new whisky bar is casting the clocks back two decades and inviting its guests to help revive the alternative late-night scene in Brisbane.

Charcuterie and cheese platters are served atop skateboard decks, while more than 50 brands of whisky line the shelves. Premium drops like 25-year-old Chivas Regal and Ardbeg Uigeadail are on offer, as well as other specialty spirits including the likes of Ron de Jeremy. Those not taken by the amber liquid can sate their thirst with a glass of Brooklyn Lager, Monteith’s Black Beer or Holgate Road Trip, while the cocktail list reads like a who’s who of counter-culture – think Jam Master Jay, Freddie Mercury and Anna Nicole Smith.

Co-owners Andrew McSherry and Brad Cochrane collaborated with interior designer Adam Head to create a decadent interior designed for lounging. An original 1900s pressed ceiling meets furniture and light fittings crafted by the designer’s hand. Sabotage Social opens this Saturday.

Sabotage Social
Corner Wickham and Gipps Streets, Fortitude Valley
Ph: 0427 979 029
Open: Monday and Thursday 5:00 pm to 12:00 am, Friday and Saturday 3:30 pm to 3:00 am, Sunday 12:00 pm to 12:00 am