The Embassy Hotel in Elizabeth Street has been a Brisbane staple for a long time but you would be forgiven for not recognising the new Embassy Craft Beer Bar with its sleek fit out.
After 50 years you can finally see inside the hotel again. Gone is the old pub decor and in its place is an inviting atmosphere with an industrial styled decor featuring bare hanging light bulbs and the original brick work.
I was lucky enough to attend the opening last week and sample their amazing selection of craft beers and contemporary American style cuisine.
Boasting 16 taps, a rotating hand pump (a must try) and over 100 different bottled beers and ciders the owners, brothers Demetri and Alex Conias, have definitely put a lot of time and research into creating an excellent selection for your beer aficionado while still keeping the regulars happy.
On the night I tried the Kosiosko pale ale, an excellent Vale pale larger and my favourites the Feral Hop Hog IPA and the mind blowing and aptly named Holgate Hopinatoir (7.5%).
To complement this array of beers is the contemporary American style food of chef Rob Campbell , formerly of Malt Dining. The food is an amazing step up from your normal pub fair. Throughout the evening we sampled a wide array of offerings including venison filled baby octopus rings, spicy buffalo wings with a ranch dipping sauce and Southern fried wings with a delectable citrus lime aloi.
My pick of the night would be the spicy jalapeno poppers which had an excellent bite to them that was offset perfectly by the creaminess of the melted cheese on top. While the food tastes great they have managed to keep most things in the $10 - $20 range making it still an affordable place to have your cheeky lunch beer and feed.
Larger than all its competitors, nowhere else in the city comes close to the Embassy’s size venue and large tap selection. The place looks great for small and large functions and has the menu and selection of food to cater for it.
Bottom line: On the whole I would recommend the new Embassy place to drop in and check out.
Best tip: Try the hand pump.
Alexander Stone*
*Introducing Ed+bK’s new bar reporter Alexander Stone who will be covering the city’s best drinking establishments with dedication.
Disclaimer: Ed+bK was a guest at the launch function for the Embassy Craft Beer Bar.