Highball

Highball isn't just a bar; it's a destination perched above London Circuit in the heart of Canberra. From the moment you ascend the stairs, the lush, greenery-filled interior transports you away from the city bustle into a tropical paradise where rum culture reigns supreme. The influence of this vibrant spirit family is at the heart of everything, from the extensive rum menu to the exotic cocktails and boozy punch bowls. Whether you're stopping by for signature $15 mojitos on a Tuesday, a 2-for-1 daiquiri during golden hour, or a late-night dance session, the team delivers an experience that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

Recognized as a women-led venue, Highball combines plush, luxe decor with a fresh and fun atmosphere. Reviews consistently celebrate the friendly, professional service from staff members and the unforgettable evenings they help create. The space itself is multifaceted, offering intimate booths, a vibrant main bar area, and the exclusive Casita Bar, a private function space with its own dedicated bar and a covered terrace overlooking London Circuit and City Hill. This versatility makes it a premier choice for everything from corporate events to private cocktail classes and lively birthday parties, all set to a soundtrack provided by DJs spinning every Friday and Saturday night until 3am.

Signature Drinks & Tropical Flavors

The beverage program at Highball is a deep dive into Caribbean and tropical mixology. The rum selection is a point of pride, described as very, very extensive, providing the foundation for a menu that constantly rotates with new creations and classic favorites executed with precision.

Boozy Punch Bowls & Exotic Cocktails

Highball’s mixologists are renowned for their cocktail artistry, earning praise for crafting drinks that are a true dream. The signature punch bowls are designed for sharing, perfect for groups looking to kick off a celebration. Daily specials ensure there's always a reason to visit, whether it's the all-day $16 Caribbean Cooler or the weekly 2-for-1 daiquiri offer, which is a crowd favorite for kickstarting an evening.

An Extensive Rum Collection

The spirit of rum defines the identity of Highball. From classic white rums to aged, spiced, and agricole varieties, the back bar is a haven for rum enthusiasts. The team uses this diverse collection to put unique twists on traditional cocktails, delivering bold and balanced flavors that capture the essence of a tropical getaway without leaving Canberra.

Weekly Events & Late-Night Entertainment

Highball pulses with energy throughout the week, transitioning from a relaxed early-evening cocktail lounge into a high-energy late-night venue. The events calendar is carefully curated to keep the momentum going with themed nights, brunches, and live DJ sets that make it a standout in the Canberra nightlife scene.

DJ Nights: Friday & Saturday Until 3am

On weekends, Highball transforms into one of Canberra's premier late-night destinations. DJs take control every Friday and Saturday night, spinning tracks that keep the dance floor moving from late evening until the 3am close. The combination of the lush interior, creative lighting, and pulsing music creates an electric atmosphere that regulars crave.

Themed Tuesdays: Latin Tuesdays

Latin Tuesdays have become a staple on the Canberra social calendar. Starting from 6:30 PM, the venue heats up with Latin beats and rhythms, transporting guests straight to the streets of Havana or San Juan. Paired perfectly with $15 mojitos, it's a midweek escape that infuses the start of the week with passion and flavor.

Bottomless Brunches & Special Events

The event lineup extends well beyond weekly nights. Highball hosts themed bottomless brunches that draw crowds, including tributes to Country Superstars and R&B Classics. These high-energy daytime parties combine Bottomless beverage packages with vibrant bites and a curated soundtrack. One-off specials, such as Noche de Fuego, add an extra layer of excitement, bringing heat and live entertainment that turns a standard Sunday into an unforgettable fiesta.

Private Functions & The Casita Bar

For those seeking an exclusive experience, Highball offers the Casita Bar, a secluded sanctuary within the venue. This private, greenery-filled space is designed to impress, complete with its own dedicated bar and direct access to a covered terrace that offers stunning views over London Circuit and City Hill. The Casita Bar can accommodate up to 100 guests for exclusive use, making it ideal for milestone celebrations, corporate gatherings, and product launches.

Group & Private Cocktail Classes

Highball is famous for its interactive cocktail masterclasses, led by expert mixologists who are not only talented but also incredible hosts. Guests rave about these sessions, highlighting how the instructors seamlessly integrate with the group to create a fantastic atmosphere. These hands-on experiences teach participants how to shake, stir, and muddle their way to creating signature Highball drinks, making them perfect for team-building events, hens' parties, or a unique birthday experience. Both private and group classes are tailored to the needs of the booking, ensuring a fun and educational session behind the bar.

• Private Cocktail Classes: A dedicated instructor guides your group through the art of mixology in an exclusive setting.
• Group Classes: Join a public session to meet new people while learning to craft tropical cocktails.
• Dedicated Bartender: The Casita Bar includes a private bartender dedicated to serving your guests exclusively.

Serving Canberra & Visiting Guests

Highball is perfectly positioned in the Melbourne Building at 75 London Circuit, forming a key part of the Canberra City landscape. The venue is a must-visit for locals and a top recommendation for tourists exploring the Australian Capital Territory’s dining and bar scene. Its central location makes it easily accessible, yet the elevated, biophilic design makes it feel like a hidden, tropical speakeasy amid the civic architecture. Whether you’re a public servant enjoying an APS Wednesday drink, a couple on a date night, or a group of friends celebrating a special occasion, the team at Highball delivers a consistently five-star experience that keeps customers returning and telling all their friends.

Hours, Location & Reservations

Highball is conveniently located at Level 1, 75-77 London Circuit, within the iconic Melbourne Building. The venue operates on a schedule designed to cater to both after-work drinks and late-night celebrations. To guarantee a table, especially on busy event nights or for large groups, making a booking is highly recommended. Reservations can be made online through the venue’s booking platform, ensuring a seamless entry to your tropical escape.

• Tuesday – Thursday: 5pm – 12am
• Friday – Saturday: 4pm – 3am
• Sunday – Monday: Closed

For inquiries about functions, cocktail classes, or general questions, the team can be reached via email or through the website’s contact form. Stay in the loop with the latest event announcements and late-night lineups by subscribing to the Highball newsletter directly on the website.