A Sunshine Coast cocktail bar has been awarded a significant accolade at the Australian Bar Awards.
Mooloolaba’s WAT Den won the Regional Bar of the Year award, capping off a big month that also saw the team open a new 20-seat speakeasy Hid Den.
The win was recently announced at Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, as the marquee event of Sydney Bar Week.
Now in its 25th year, the Australian Bar Awards is run by Australian Bartender Magazine and judges the country’s best venues across more than 30 categories, with WAT Den’s Regional Bar of the Year sponsored by Club Suntory.
“This award is a huge recognition of passion in action,” WAT Den co-owner Jeanelle Mariani said.
“We share it with our amazing team who bring the energy our guests experience, and we’re incredibly proud of what we’ve created in this beautiful community.
“We have always truly believed in warm and engaging hospitality, and this award proves it still matters to people.”
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Since opening on the Mooloolaba Esplanade in 2023, WAT Den has built its name on an extensive whisky and tequila list, a playful cocktail menu, and a laid-back, walk-in-only atmosphere, bringing a bit of big-city bar culture to the Coast without losing what makes it a local.
“Winning this award is nothing short of a dream,” venue manager and drinks program lead at Hid Den, Bri Reilly said.
“We are so lucky to be surrounded by such support, and an incredible family of regulars and staff.
“We are so grateful to know our fellow Queensland and Aussie bars are supporting us with such intensity.
“This award would never have graced us without our incredible team of dedicated, talented and one-of-a-kind staff over the last three years.”
