Brisbane hospitality Archives

Acclaimed US cocktail institution Death & Co. has selected Toowong for its first-ever Brisbane bar, announcing it will take over the subterranean space beneath the Regatta Hotel.

The celebrated bar, which first established itself as a New York City institution, will begin serving patrons in Brisbane later this summer. Its arrival is part of a wider Australian expansion, which includes a Melbourne venue set to begin operating in November. The move into Australia is a collaboration with the major hospitality group Australian Venue Co.

A New Era for a Familiar Space

For many locals, the most exciting detail is the venue’s location. The new cocktail bar is currently taking shape in the space beneath the Regatta Hotel, a spot previously home to The Walrus Club. This signals a significant new chapter for the popular Toowong landmark, bringing a different style of world-class service to the riverside community.

From East Village to Brisbane River

Death & Co. first made its name in Manhattan’s East Village in late 2006, quickly building a reputation for its creative team and commitment to quality. The brand’s philosophy focuses on restoring a sense of class and flavour to the specialty cocktail, aiming to create exceptional experiences for its patrons. While it has since grown with venues in Los Angeles, Denver, and Washington D.C., the company states its deep desire to be a centre for its communities has remained.

To ensure this standard is met in Queensland, newly hired Australian managers recently completed extensive training in the United States. This preparation aims to faithfully recreate the brand’s well-known service style and philosophy.

What to Expect

Once operating, the Toowong team will serve the brand’s iconic signature drinks, including the Naked & Famous and the Oaxacan Old Fashioned. Patrons can also look forward to a range of new menu additions that have been created with local inspiration. Community members are advised to watch for more details as the summer launch approaches.

Published Date 23-October-2025

The Regatta Hotel in Toowong, along with other establishments under Australian Venue Co (AVC) nationwide, has been the subject of discussion and controversy for AVC’s decision to ban (and then reverse the ban) on Australia Day celebrations across its 200 venues nationwide.

Initial Ban and Public Outcry

Australian Venue Co (AVC), which operates the Regatta Hotel and many other prominent Queensland venues, initially announced it would not allow specific Australia Day celebrations in 2025. The company cited the day’s divisive nature and its potential to cause sadness for some patrons. However, the decision sparked a wave of criticism, with many accusing the hospitality giant of overstepping its role.

The backlash was swift, with community members and political figures expressing frustration. Calls to boycott AVC venues began circulating on social media, highlighting dissatisfaction with what many saw as an unnecessary politicisation of the holiday.

Community and Local Businesses React

For residents of Toowong, the Regatta Hotel holds a special place as a historic venue and community hub. Locals voiced strong opinions on the matter, with some supporting the company’s sensitivity toward Indigenous Australians and others criticising the decision as out of touch with the public.

Nearby pubs in Brisbane announced they would continue traditional Australia Day celebrations, including barbecues and games. This provided an alternative for those who felt AVC’s policy did not reflect their views.

State leaders and local business owners in Toowong emphasised the importance of keeping celebrations accessible to everyone, noting that such events bring people together in a spirit of unity and pride.

Australian Day The Regatta Hotel Toowong — *Photo Credit: Tatters/Flicker*

Cultural Significance of the Day

Australia Day, celebrated on January 26, has long been a point of contention. While many Australians use the day to celebrate the nation’s achievements and multicultural society, others see it as a reminder of the impact of colonisation on Indigenous communities. The debate over whether to maintain, change, or reinterpret the date has grown in recent years.

AVC’s decision placed venues like the Regatta Hotel at the heart of this conversation. Critics questioned whether a pub should take a stance on a polarising issue, while supporters praised the company for addressing the broader cultural sensitivities of the day.

AVC’s Apology and Future Plans

In response to the backlash, AVC issued an apology and reversed its ban. The company stated that its intention was not to dictate how patrons should celebrate but to ensure inclusivity. It reaffirmed that the Regatta Hotel and other venues would remain open on 26 January, welcoming all guests regardless of their stance on the holiday.

This move has eased some tensions, but for others, the damage to public perception remains.

Local commentators have argued that the incident reflects broader cultural divides within Australia and the ongoing challenge of balancing tradition with evolving social awareness.

Published 3-Dec-2024

Tag: Brisbane hospitality

Global Cocktail Bar Death & Co. Chooses Toowong for First Brisbane Venue