Sportsman Hotel - Spring Hill, Queensland

justyn C.

The snitzel was perfectly cooked and delicious garlic butter on top the drags got their outfits from best and less they couldn't dance and could not attract anyone in fact most of the audience walked outside mid performance this place has immense potential but only with creative managers the burgers also looked delicious. I'll be back!!!!!

Jürgen Z.

Friendly service

We ordered the Gnocchi but it didn't come with a creamy sauce as would normally be expected, but rather it came with a slightly tart white wine sauce, which wasn't that good. The Parmy came with Deb Potato which was a big letdown, otherwise the Parmy was actually delicious.

The Karaoke was too loud while we were eating, & we would've preferred to watch a funny Drag Show. The Karaoke should still be downstairs where it doesn't bother the diners or people who are there to chat & watch a nice show.

Dario P.

I visited here last night after possibly years since my last time here, and went to the party that was ok downstairs. Firstly, the $35 cover charge was excessive and on stark contrast to how these events have been run in the past. Secondly, it was really sad to experience how 'sanitised' this space seems to have been. What used to be a safe space for men to come and enjoy what felt like an 'anything goes' environment is now no longer the case at all. Staff patrolling the patrons threatening to kick people out for anything a little 'naughty'. And not even being respectful or kind when expressing the rules to people. They actually seemed to enjoy their little power trip. I say it's a shame because Brisbane had very few places left for people to explore their sexuality, and now it seems we can cross this place off the list too.

Donatella Y.

Brisbane’s True Home of Drag & LGBTQ+ Community Spirit

Frequently known as Sporties, The Sportsman Hotel is Brisbane’s real-deal gay bar, and according to my gay son, Caleb, it’s where drag truly lives in this city. Sporties has a casual, welcoming, no-frills vibe—no pretentiousness, just good times, great people, and drag queens who clearly love what they do.

No, it’s not a Broadway production or Drag Race-level spectacle, but that’s what makes it so fun and authentic. The performers bring energy, humor, and heart, and if you arrive early, you can enjoy dinner and a show—what more could you want?

With an interesting history and the fact that it remains gay-owned (a rarity these days!), Sporties is more than just a bar—it’s a safe space, a community hub, and a Brisbane institution. If you’re looking for a true LGBTQ+ venue with soul, this is the place to be!

Bryan W.

The food is amazing. Really inclusive environment and the staff are friendly. Events every evening are unique and the atmosphere is unique and flavourful.

Vanessa M.

Last night at karaoke was super busy, the busiest I had ever seen it on a Wednesday night. The staff were friendly and entertaining, and other than one old guy throwing a tantrum all the patrons were understanding. There were even some kids in the audience early in the night, and the drag queens adjusted their banter

Mark D.

My partner and I drove 8 hours from regional Queensland for a much-needed break. We organised our trip around attending the karaoke night, as we have attended a few times over the years and always had a good time. On each of the previous occasions I have sung two or three songs. We arrived for dinner, amongst the earliest in the hotel that evening. As soon as 7 o’clock arrived I went up and put my name down for a song. I waited two and a half hours for my turn. Meanwhile some people went up twice before I had my turn. As soon as I finished my song I put my name down for another. While waiting some people got up for their third song. A lot of them were locals who I recognised from previous trips. One local sang a song that they have sung every time I have been there. At 10:15 I realised that I probably wasn’t going to get another turn. I went to the manager and explained that we had driven a long way for this. Her response was basically “Too bad”. I went up to the people hosting the karaoke and explained the situation again. Their response was also, “Too bad”. I went and sat back down, annoyed but resigned to not getting another turn. After I sat down another local went up for their third song. At this point I went up to the manager and said “I’m giving this a bad review. This is a f'ing joke”. Her response was, “You need to leave or I’ll call the police”. I had not been threatening or aggressive in any way. We left as it was 11 and were planning on leaving anyway.

Jody C.

Great local historical gay venue. Excellent food great prices
Fantastic drag shows. Highly recommended