Flamboyant new boozer lands in the heart of West End

A new and flamboyant bar named Intermission has recently opened in the bustling West End area of Brisbane, Australia. This establishment marks a significant addition to the neighborhood's growing reputation as a cultural and entertainment hub. Located on Boundary Street, just in front of The West End Electric, the bar was born out of necessity rather than initial planning. For nearly six months prior to its opening, the space remained vacant and in disrepair, prompting concerns among locals and business owners about the appearance of the area.

Scott Maidment, director of Strut & Fret, the company that runs The West End Electric, explained that the decision to transform the space came after discussions with the landlord. "It was derelict and we thought, 'This isn't a good look to the front of our venue,'" he stated. With the goal of revitalizing the area, Intermission officially opened in late June 2026, offering a fresh and vibrant alternative to the previously neglected space.

Designed by James Browne, a well-known set designer for Strut & Fret, Intermission combines elements of both theatrical flair and urban charm. The interior features a blend of colors such as teal and maroon, alongside a striking gold floor created using hundreds of thousands of hand-thrown gold flakes. The walls are adorned with wainscoted VJ-boards and framed by white timber structures that define the outdoor seating areas. Every inch of the interior space is utilized creatively, with old theater posters and painted portraits adorning the walls, creating a unique atmosphere that invites patrons to linger.

Despite its proximity to The West End Electric, Intermission is intended to function independently as a local gathering place. According to Maidment, the vision was clear: "Our brief to James was that we wanted the whole concept to be, 'See you at Intermission. Meet you at Intermission. Let’s grab a drink at Intermission.'" This approach aims to make the bar accessible to everyone, whether they are attending a performance at the nearby theater or simply passing through the area.

The menu at Intermission is designed to encourage patrons to stay longer and enjoy multiple rounds of drinks. Signature cocktails include the Werther or Not, featuring brown butter bourbon, burnt sugar, butterscotch liqueur, cacao bitters, saline, and vanilla, and the Choc Top Martini, which blends vanilla vodka, crème de cacao, Malibu, cold brew coffee, and cream. Other notable offerings include The Saharan, composed of white rum, Malibu, pineapple juice, lime juice, elderflower syrup, and egg white.

In addition to the cocktail menu, Intermission offers a curated selection of wines, including rare varietals and boutique producers, many of which are available by the glass. The venue also provides rotating craft beers on tap and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages. To complement the drinks, a Mediterranean-inspired snack menu is available, ensuring that visitors remain engaged and entertained throughout their time at the bar.

The location of Intermission allows patrons to experience the full vibrancy of the West End, where one can observe a diverse array of people moving through the streets. From posh women in aerobics attire to tradespeople heading to the pub, the area encapsulates the essence of urban life. This dynamic setting enhances the overall experience at Intermission, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike. As the bar continues to gain popularity, it is anticipated that it will further contribute to the cultural landscape of the West End, solidifying its role as a central point of social interaction in the community.