Distill my beating heart, Burleigh!

The Gold Coast is a little more intoxicating – metaphorically speaking, of course – with the grand opening of Familiar Spirits Distillery. Not even Cyclone Alfred’s recent efforts to dampen spirits (pun fully intended) could shake things up enough to delay the launch – and we are all kinds of excited.

This boutique Burleigh distillery is ready to serve up some seriously elevated sips, paired with small plates and desserts that are nothing short of liquid gold. Yes, it’s the dream we’ve all dreamed – and it’s about to become our new favourite spirit-ual retreat.

The F&B child of husband-and-wife duo Justin and Lana Bell, Familiar Spirits is far more than your standard distillery. Justin, the head distiller, has a knack for crafting spirits that are tailor-made for cocktails, ensuring each drink is as smooth as a well-aged whiskey.

Meanwhile, Lana, the creative director, has infused the space with her signature styling, making sure every corner looks as good as the cocktails taste. And to guarantee the food is just as memorable, they locked in Lana’s sister Bree Dittrich as head chef. Trained in the Hunter Valley and known for her jaw-dropping wedding cakes (#TheCakeThatAteParis) – Bree is dominating in the kitchen, whipping up dishes and desserts that perfectly complement the beverages.

The venue itself is a masterclass in design. With deep green tones drenching the walls, ceiling, and furniture, stepping inside feels like entering a secret, boozy oasis. It’s intimate, tropical, a little tiki – but in the most tasteful way – and features just eight counter seats and four dining tables. In other words, if you want a taste of this new haunt, booking ahead is essential or you’ll be left outside gazing longingly at everyone else’s perfect pours.

Speaking of cocktails, the bar is in the capable hands of Danson Danium, a seasoned pro who has flexed his flex at some of the best cocktail spots on the Coast. While Familiar Spirits has a signature cocktail menu that will rotate with the seasons, the real magic happens when guests let Danson work his mixology magic to create a custom drink based on their personal preferences. Just tell him what you like and let him Danson away! Our current fave: The Butler’s Secret. Think smooth, sour, and fluffy with The Butler’s Gin Elderflower, Orange Oleo Sacrum Lemon, Orris & Angelica Root.

Of course, it would be rude to sip without a little something to nibble on and rest assured, the grub is as good as the grog. Signature dishes include a Beef Carpaccio with roasted baby beets, horseradish, rocket, and parmesan – a flavourful masterpiece that pairs beautifully with a well-crafted cocktail. For those who prefer to end things on a sweet note, the Tiramisu made with Familiar Spirits’ Gentleman Pirate Rum is the kind of dessert well worth a trip to the dentist.

The name ‘Familiar Spirits’ is more than just a clever play on words – it’s the ethos of the business itself. What started as a casual Christmas gift (a small still for Justin to experiment with) quickly snowballed into a full-blown distilling operation, drawing in family and friends like moths to a flame (or in this case, like gin to tonic). The bottle labels? Designed by an old mate. The food? As mentioned, crafted by Lana’s sister. The wine behind the bar? Supplied by a cousin. Even the couple’s daughters are being trained to work alongside Danson. It’s a full-fledged family affair, and the result is a venue that radiates warmth, passion, and a genuine love for great sips and eats, and equally fab company.

So, whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a dessert devotee, or just someone who froths over a beautifully designed venue, Familiar Spirits will become your new favourite haunt. One visit and you’ll be shaken, stirred, and completely smitten.

Where: 1/9 Calabro Way, Burleigh Heads
When: Bar (cocktails and food): 12pm – 8pm Fridays and Saturdays. Bookings are essential
Cellar door bottle sales: 10am-3pm Thursdays.

Words by Bianca Trathen
Images by Mathilde Bouby