Time for a cheeky drink? Presenting… the QB signature cocktail (plus cocktail tips from a mixologist!)

It only opened its doors in December 2016, but Seymour’s Cocktails & Oysters in Brisbane – located on Caxton Street, right next to Lefty’s Old Time Music Hall – has quickly become the hottest drinking den in town. Shimmy through crimson curtains and you’ll find a stylish, New Orleans-inspired bar so compact it only holds around 35 people at a time.

Slip into one of the booths or pull up a bentwood stool at the brass-topped bar and order some top-notch nosh (including, of course, freshly shucked oysters), and classic cocktails from the best bartenders in town. Big call? We’re not the only ones singing their praises: Seymour’s was one of three finalists for Bar of the Year 2018 in the prestigious Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide Awards. And at the 2017 Bartender Magazine Australian Bar Awards they placed in three categories, including Cocktail Bar of the Year (the only bar in Queensland to make the grade), so who else could we ask to create a signature drink for QB?

We popped in to sample the goods and chat to venue manager Cameron Pirret while he concocted a cocktail just for us. Read on for his expert tips for the perfect wedding reception cocktail…

A little expert advice…

Why has Seymour’s Oysters & Cocktails made such an impression in the short time since it opened?
“We like to think we’ve put the focus back on to the customer by making more approachable drinks and having a fun, relaxed style of service. We want it to be a venue that everyone can enjoy.”

Gin seems to be the drink of the year – what spirits do you predict will make it big in 2018?
“Rye whisky will be the cocktail spirit of choice: it shares all the floral aromas of gin, with added sweetness and spice. It’s probably my favourite drink to mix with.”

What are the golden rules for choosing a signature cocktail for a special event such as a wedding?
“Simplicity is key. Most great drinks usually only have a few ingredients.”

What are the classics that are worth revisiting? Can you share a few cocktails that never go out of style?
“Again, simple drinks – like a daiquiri, old fashioned, negroni or London calling.”

If you were getting married next week, what would you choose to serve as your signature cocktail?
“For me, it would be a negroni.”

What’s the one cocktail you’d never serve at a wedding, and why?
“There’s nothing in particular, but I’d recommend trying to steer clear of sweet, heavy drinks. I love piña coladas, but they’re probably not the best for a wedding!” What’s a great mocktail alternative? “There are great alcohol-free gins available that go brilliantly with tonic or soda.”

Want more?
To get you inspired, may we humbly suggest these classic concoctions?