Opening soon – Kaktus Bar is set to bring tequila, mezcal and modern Mexican bar culture to Southport
Southport is preparing to dial up the colour, flavour and fun this summer as Kaktus Bar – a spirited new bar celebrating modern Mexican-inspired drinking culture – gets ready to open in mid to late December. With its agave-forward drinks list, playful street-food selection and unmistakably celebratory vibe, Kaktus is shaping up to be one of the northern Gold Coast’s most exciting new openings.
First and foremost, Kaktus is a bar – proudly and unapologetically. The team, led by bar manager Cameron Coull, has crafted an offering that leans heavily into tequila, mezcal and the greater agave family, inviting guests to explore these spirits with curiosity rather than defaulting to the shot-and-go mentality. Here, guests will be guided through smoky nuances, regional styles and pairing opportunities, transforming each sip into something to savour.
The food, we’re told, will follow the same ethos of celebration and togetherness. Rather than leaning into restaurant dining, Kaktus is set to embrace shareable, street-food-style plates designed to enhance the communal rhythm of the venue. Snacky, flavour-packed dishes will function as companions to the cocktails.
One of the most exciting elements is Kaktus’ build-your-own margarita offering, poised to become its signature. Guests will be able to customise every layer, from the specific tequila selection to the salt rim, including bold options like grasshopper or worm salt, both nods to traditional South American practices.
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While the bar will sit within Southport Sharks, Kaktus stands firmly as its own distinct identity. The design will take cues from the tones and colour palettes found across Mexico, threaded with an abundance of live cacti and an easy, open-air breeze that sets the scene for sipping and snacking.
The aim is simple, to create a new go-to for locals – the kind of place people gravitate towards after work, for group celebrations, or for a long, sun-drenched Sunday session. With its strong beverage identity, street-food-led menu and electric sense of occasion, Kaktus feels destined to become a lively anchor for the Southport social scene.
Kaktus is set to open on Thursday December 18. We’ll bring you a closer look when it opens.