AFTER weeks spent chasing flaky pastries, loaded burgers, cheesy pizzas and enough sweet treats to send Roamin Rowan into a sugar- fuelled spiral, week eight of Ipswich’s favourite local food hunt finally turned its attention to something a little thirstier – the city’s best beer or bevvy place.
And Ipswich locals certainly poured their hearts into this one.
From classic pubs serving ice-cold schooners to trendy cocktail bars shaking up creative mixes and craft brewers producing award-worthy drops right here in the region, the response highlighted just how far Ipswich’s drinks scene has evolved.
As nominations rolled in, locals passionately defended their favourite spots, favourite pours and the places they swear make the best drink in town.
Among the standout shout-outs was Stony Creek Brewing, which locals praised for its relaxed atmosphere, live music and quality craft beers that continue building a loyal following among Ipswich beer lovers.
Hotel Commonwealth also proved a crowd favourite, with many locals describing it as the ultimate traditional pub experience with icy cold beers, hearty meals, sport on the screens and the kind of atmosphere that feels unmistakably Ipswich.
Meanwhile, Imbibis Craft Distillery earned strong support for its locally distilled spirits and unique flavour creations, with many praising the venue for helping put Ipswich on the map in the booming craft spirits scene.
For cocktail lovers, The Rusty Nail drew glowing praise for its cosy late-night atmosphere, whisky selections and expertly mixed drinks tucked away in the heart of the city.
And Springfield favourite Ballistic Brewery continued to show why it has become one of the region’s most popular craft beer destinations, with locals backing its tasting paddles, vibrant atmosphere and award-winning brews.
In 24 hours, the hunt reached more than 9500 views as locals flooded the comments to champion their go-to venues, favourite brews and signature drinks.
Whether it’s a perfectly poured pint after work, a cocktail with friends on a Friday night, a locally distilled spirit or a craft beer brewed just around the corner, Ipswich locals made one thing crystal clear – this city knows how to raise a glass.
LOCAL GEM SHINING
IMBIBIS Craft Distillery may have released Ipswich’s first locally produced whisky on Queensland Day, but celebrating the region’s rich produce and local flavours has been at the heart of the business since day one.
In many ways, Imbibis is exactly the type of business the Best of Ipswich campaign and Roamin Rowan’s search for the region’s hidden treasures was created to uncover – local gems quietly doing extraordinary things while proudly showcasing everything Ipswich has to offer to audiences far beyond our postcode.
Owner Jason Hannay, who spent two decades as a winemaker in South East Queensland before turning his hand to distilling 14 years ago, founded Imbibis seven years ago with a simple philosophy, to use the best ingredients available as close to home as possible.
“That was our focus from day one – to source as close to the distillery as we can,” Mr Hannay said.
That commitment to local produce can be found throughout the Imbibis range, with ingredients sourced from across the region’s fertile food bowl.
“We use limes from Watercress Creek Limes and Olives, we’ve got a Davidson’s plum liqueur which is fruit from our own tree, so you cannot get any more local than that.”
While the release of the whisky marks a significant milestone for the distillery, Mr Hannay said the focus remained firmly on innovation and creating products that reflect the character of the region.
“The goal is just to keep being innovative, keep using the local ingredients, being inspired by our local surroundings and what we’ve got available,” he said.
