Familiar Spirits Distillery

Burleigh Heads’ newest hidden gem, Familiar Spirits Distillery, is redefining intimate drinking experiences with a cellar door that feels more like a warm welcome home. 

Tucked away in Burleigh’s industrial estate, this small-batch distillery is the passion project of husband-and-wife duo Lana and Justin Bell, who have crafted a space where great drinks, genuine connections, and old-school hospitality take center stage. 

You may already be familiar (get it?) with Familiar Spirits—their meticulously crafted range of premium small-batch spirits, including gin, vodka, limoncello, and cane spirit, has garnered acclaim in restaurants and bars across the Gold Coast.

“The name Familiar Spirits is more than a fun play on words, it’s the very essence of our vision,” says co-owner and head distiller Justin Bell. 

“We aim to create an environment that feels like home, where guests are known by name…It helps that the bar is a bit of a hidden gem—tucked down a side street in Burleigh’s industrial estate. People feel like they’ve stumbled upon something special when they find us." 

At Familiar Spirits Distillery, each cocktail is an experience within itself, as Bar Manager Danson Danium channels his extensive knowledge and intuitive ability into personalised beverages that are designed to resonate with your unique tastes. 

Sip your way through reimagined classics and innovative new drinks with unexpected flavour pairings, house-made infusions, and exceptional craftsmanship.  

Pair your drink with a thoughtfully curated menu of small plates and desserts designed by Head Chef Bree Dittrich (who also happens to be Lana’s sister and well-known Gold Coast pastry chef). Expect standout plates like produce-driven beef carpaccio with roasted beetroot and tiramisu infused with Familiar Spirits’ Gentleman Pirate Rum. 

Cocooned in deep green hues and styled with details reminiscent of a refined tiki lounge, Familiar Spirits is as much an escape as it is a drinking destination. With just a handful of counter seats and tables, bookings are a must—but once you’re in, you’ll want to stay awhile.

The cellar door welcomes guests every Thursday from 10am to 5pm for bottle purchases of their favourite Familiar Spirits products, and from 12pm to 8pm every Friday and Saturday for the full bar experience. 

Image Credit: Familiar Spirits Distillery | Lana Bell Photography