**2018 Bar of the Year: [Bar Rochford](https://www.gourmettraveller.com.au/dining-out/restaurant-reviews/bar-rochford-6699|target=&quot;_blank&quot;), Canberra**

Canberra? You read right. If your memory of nightlife in the nation&#x27;s capital involves the sight of tumbleweeds and the sound of crickets chirping, it&#x27;s time to update your stereotypes. This version of Canberra cool involves a watering hole that segues fluidly between restaurant-quality food, wine that puts many a Melbourne or Sydney contemporary to shame, a roaring fire in winter, beautiful Deco arches to let in the light in summer and great beats and good times year round.

*Finalists: Seymour&#x27;s Cocktails and Oysters, Brisbane; Big Poppa&#x27;s, Sydney*