Lucky's Speakeasy

If you’re looking for a place to soothe wounds won in a day-long battle with bureaucracy, it’s hard to go past Lucky’s Speakeasy. Or rather, it is easy to go past unless you know where to look: its entry is cunningly concealed in a barber’s shop at the far corner of the lobby of the QT Hotel. Inside, you’ll find all the quiet corners and dark leather booths you crave, perfect for losing a briefcase or two, if you’re so inclined. Ease yourself into the evening with a Ghost of Mary, a clarified take on the Bloody Mary that uses tomato consommé instead of juice. It’s wonderfully savoury with just enough spice, and the perfect gateway into a snack menu loaded with rich, American-style comfort food. Get stuck into the hot chips – they’re a best-of-both-worlds combo of skinny shoestring fries and big, satisfying British chippies, slathered in cheese and addictively crunchy – then continue your carb adventure with a truffled mac’n’cheese that’s as soft as a mother’s hug, or go for protein and bite with a spicy housemade jerky. Knock back a barrel-aged Old Fashioned to cleanse your palate: the citrusy kick of Regan’s Orange Bitters makes this boozy classic surprisingly refreshing. As the aches of a working day wear off, you’ll find your surroundings shifting from cocktail hour murmurs to something a little more wild and free. If you’re not interested in outsiders, second yourself to the privacy of a booth (complete with curtains to draw) and order up some bottle service. (Lucky’s is one of the few places in town you can stay seated and libated at the same time.) If you’re ready to mingle, light a fire inside with a sweet and kicky Espresso Martini and get in amongst the revellers. After ten on a Friday or Saturday night, this place is pumping with Canberra locals eager to get their ya-yas out to a mix of dancefloor classics and the occasional live act. Whether you’re up to get down in public or private, your tastes are well catered to here.