The Prince Consort

The Prince Consort is a massive, multi-level, heritage-listed hotel (circa 1888) featuring 8 unique, bespoke bars for drinking and dining, all under one roof. 

Designed by architect Richard Gailey (who also designed The Wickham and The Regatta), the Prince Consort boasted one of the largest bars in Brisbane when it opened, plus 3 parlours, a dining room, billiard room, kitchen, cellar, 6 bathrooms and 28 bedrooms.

Most recently known as the Elephant Hotel, the landmark building has reverted to its original name and has been transformed to its former glory by the hotel's new owners (Sydney-based Tilley & Wills), with 8 exciting, diverse, new spaces to explore including a gastro-pub, garden bar, luxe disco and Mexican cantina. 

On the ground floor, The Parlour Bar is an English-style pub in British racing green and white, with a well-stocked bar where you can wet your whistle and enjoy top-notch, pub grub. 

Beyond the bar area, the Band Room features Hamptons-inspired decor with banquette seating, opening onto the quintessential Queensland Garden Bar - an outdoor courtyard festooned with fairy lights, hanging baskets and potted plants.

Head upstairs via the ornate staircase to La La Land, a resplendent bar with booth seating, VIP private rooms and crystal chandelier - where you can dance the night away. 

An antler-suspended hallway leads to the needs-to-be-seen-to-be-believed Bowie Rooms, paying tribute the iconic pop star and one of the most influential musicians of our time.

Patrons can toss back tequila and tuck into tacos at the Los Cabos-inspired 400 Rabbits, or take time out in The Naughty Corner, hidden in the heart of the heritage building, providing 360-degree views of its neighbouring bars.

On the top level, The Yorke Suites are for music makers and related creatives; while in the original underground cellar of the Prince Consort, you'll find the much-loved Greaser, a subterranean bar with a rock n' roll vibe, where ink is the preferred dress code.  

The venue boasts a mind-blowing 89 beer taps - including international classics and local craft brews - as well as a decent wine list that features well-known Australian names alongside some young guns, plus creative cocktails. 

Food wise, punters can feast on gastro-pub fare like classic chicken parmigianas, juicy cheeseburgers and wood-fired pizzas; shared tapas plates at La La Land; or tacos with a twist at 400 Rabbits.  

By Deb Lidster