Ric's Bar + Backyard is a Bar located at 321 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia. It has received 703 reviews with an average rating of 3.9 stars.
Monday | 8PM-3:30AM |
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Tuesday | 6PM-3:30AM |
Wednesday | 6PM-3:30AM |
Thursday | 6PM-3:30AM |
Friday | 6PM-3:30AM |
Saturday | 8PM-3:30AM |
Sunday | 8PM-3:30AM |
The address of Ric's Bar + Backyard: 321 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006, Australia
Ric's Bar + Backyard has 3.9 stars from 703 reviews
Bar
"As a number of other reviews have mentioned, the security guards here are absolutely awful"
"I come to Ric’s quite often and it is mostly a great experience! I enjoy the music— it’s a great atmosphere and environment to spend time with friends in"
"First impression was from the lady at the counter who looked like she was hung over and hadn't slept"
"The cafe is located beside and part of Royal George"
"Tldr: venue quality has increased dramatically over the past few years"
As a number of other reviews have mentioned, the security guards here are absolutely awful. About four years ago, I went with a few friends and we sat at a table for about two hours. I was the designated driver for the group. Out of nowhere, a security guard came up behind me while I was seated, chicken-winged me and said "if you resist you're going to have a very sore arm" and shoved me through the bar outside. After discussing with the manager for about an hour following this I came to the conclusion that the security guard made a mistake, wouldn't own up to it, and the manager basically apologised diplomatically but didn't actually care at all. This place is fine mostly, but the security is the worst of any joint I've ever experienced in my life. I don't drink. I don't dance. I rarely leave the table I'm seated at. I'm there for my mates to have a good time. I'm going to assume the actual reason he forced me out is because I was on the waters. I'm writing this review because FOUR YEARS LATER I still remember how messed up this incident was. And four years later, they're still getting negative reviews about their security guards. Nothing has changed. Fix your bouncers. I regret not taking the time the next morning to file a police report so that they would review security tapes. FYI this guy was tall, white and bald. I hope he's not still there, but I haven't been back since to find out. I had only been there once before. Likely never will again.
I come to Ric’s quite often and it is mostly a great experience! I enjoy the music— it’s a great atmosphere and environment to spend time with friends in. However, I don’t appreciate when my friends are left in danger. Thus, I was incredibly concerned when we realised my mates’ drinks had been spiked. They tasted odd, smelt acidic and hence, we removed ourselves from aforementioned situation. On our way out, we thought it most responsible to notify the security guard at the door of what we’d experienced— making him aware of the person in which we were under the impression had messed with our drinks. To our dismay, the security guard responded with “There’s no way I can prove that,” and asked us to leave. This is absolutely disgusting behaviour— especially since these are the people who are there to ensure the safety of patrons and act upon these vile situations. I am ashamed to have had to walk away from a situation in which could have left another woman in danger. This is absolutely ridiculous and I am both incredibly concerned and disappointed. It is simply not good enough.
First impression was from the lady at the counter who looked like she was hung over and hadn't slept. Which in my opinion is where the faults originated from. Food was good but they got my order wrong. Fried eggs instead of poached. Hard instead of soft. I thought of returning it but decided not to. Then the coffees came out. Ordered an ice latte with no ice. Got an ice late with ice. Which after a minute tasted like a watered down coffee. Not my cup of tea per say. The service was happy hazard orders going to the wrong tables and even the chef was out on the floor helping serve. He was very apologetic about the whole situation. Had great expectations for this place due to other friends recommending it. Should of been a better experience if the service was up to scratch.
The cafe is located beside and part of Royal George. We passed by many times and decided to look up their website, and discovered that they have really value for money all day meals. We tried their $6 rump steak with fries and salad on a Wedneaday, and it was delicious! Though the steak cannot be compared to premium steaks, and a bit fatty, you cannot find a better value meal like this at just $6. There are also other all day meals that are not expensive in the menu, which we try them out some other days. Also, the lady staff at the cafe counter is really friendly and helpful! It has now become a favourite spot for me and my wife to dine in for lunch whenever we are lazy to cook.
Tldr: venue quality has increased dramatically over the past few years. It's now a super respectable live outdoor venue and relaxing place to enjoy a few brews. The introduction of an undercovered quality live stage and seating Really impressed me since I last visited a few years ago. As far as my memory serves me they have renovated parts of the flooring, introduced a covered stage, put in a few outdoor roofing sets, increased the chair and table quality and upgraded the bar to include food which goes to late night. But that is likely not all. Honestly, in terms of a place to sit down, chat and have a few brews this certainly stacks in my top 5 and I feel it would for others.
Such a great venue! We celebrated a birthday at Rics tonight and the service was OUTSTANDING! The staff were incredible, especially Kris, helping us out with everything we could possibly need and being so efficient and understanding, also Christian, great staff member who was so welcoming and friendly and ready to help out with anything we needed. We had the best night and can’t wait to come back to enjoy the great service and lovely smiling faces of the staff! We love you Kris and Christian!!!!!
the guy with the green hair or jake, is probably the loveliest, kindest human i’ve met!! i’m someone who hates going to the valley.. but seeing jake always smiling when he serves you is honestly a main reason i go to rics. so thank you for always having such amazing staff on, it’s staff like jake who really create a safe and inclusive space for everyone (also he remembered mine and my friends round of drinks after ordering 1 time so honestly the convenience of that brings me back in itself)
The price is good & have cheap breakfast menu. I have only tried the eggs Benedict and they are beautiful. They have THE BEST hash browns they are small though. It's located in the valley, the eating area is nice with all the hanging garden plants. Definitely went back more then once and will continue to go specially on a Sunday coz it's the only place with in walking distance from where we live to find coffee & breakfast, most coffee shops are closed on a Sunday in Fortitude valley.
If your happy to wait 30+ minutes for below par food, Which Does Include Cold Fries i highly suggest coming here especially if you have your food cooked incorrectly... Only good thing about the venue is the Bar Staff who are good humans, The Kitchen is pointless and explains the discounts, as the staff there don't understand how to cook or Prepare what is required... Ps i noticed the Alcohol price went up again, along with all the food... I wonder if the staff wages went up 2...
I went to Rics on hamburger day around 1:30. They had no hamburger ingredients, so ordered a chicken burger. It had nothing but lettuce and mayo and was UNBELIEVABLY salty, could barely eat half. ALSO warning, do not even bother going there on Taco/Burrito day: last time I went it was 100% inedible and I pretty much eat everything. I recommend only going there on steak night! Basics are reasonably priced and vibe is often good, but the service and food needs some SERIOUS work!
I used to love Ric’s and have many fond memories of my times there But for the past few months (2 at least) the place stinks horribly of vomit outside and inside. It’s not enough to say this is a temporary issue as I walk past it every day and was there for a gig recently where it was almost too much to bear The place needs to shut down for a few days and get properly cleaned, it’s becoming a proper nuisance and feels like a health concern at this point
It took my second trip to Ric's to discover all that is going on there. Love love love the back garden, really chill and if you lose your pants there are some on the clothes line! Dj upstairs was amazing, I haven't danced that hard in a long time. Balcony outside to smoke or cool down then is the job. Can't remember the name of the girl working in the front bar but she was so friendly and really contributed to the great time I had there. Awesome!
Went here last week for a late lunch as most places weren't serving but Ric's have the burger menu available all day. I got a vodka W/pineapple juice, well priced, really nice juice used. And I got the CBC Burger, great value especially at $12.50, made perfectly to order, didn't take too long to cook. Huge burger and plenty of chips, we were all very full, really nice quality ingredients, was delicious. Nice outdoors sitting area. Friendly staff.
One of the better venues in the Valley. Free entry is always nice, but the lines can get quite long. Quite a small area, but there is also an upstairs which is also a good atmosphere. Having a very good food menu is not something that other clubs have, but is a great idea for a club like this. There's also plenty of seating and tables. The backyard gives off highschool party vibes and that's very unique and nostalgic. Good for a night out
Waited half an hour for my breakfast to come out while multiple people who came in after were served, noone told us to get cutlery when we order so when the food finally did come out we had to get back up and go back inside.. The food tasted fine but literally only got 2 TINY thin slice haloumi, I really mean Tiny! It only get one extra star because the coffee was okay. But I'd seriously would recommend it to anywhere unfortunately.
Terrible experience during my mates 21st. Asked where the amenities were, to what happened to be the manager, and from that simple interaction she had my partner and i kicked out of the venue and continued yelling at us agressively - clearly drunk and continuously saying she was the manager and that we needed to leave, then brought security over to force us out also. Completely unreasonable and ruined the night.
This bar stinks like urine, is covered in vomit, and the karaoke is dismal. Ask any woman, and you'll hear stories of unwanted touching, unwanted kissing, and disgusting characters which are never addressed and dismissed by the owners. The bartenders are friendly but it doesn't make up for the lasting bitterness. This bar has changed my perspective of Brisbane. The people in this city are sick.
Was wearing linen shorts, converse, necklace, watch, ring. Apparently, because my shorts didn't have a belt loop I wasn't adhering to dress code standards. After a quick review of current patrons residing in Ric's, I wondered what the dress code was for women? I was seeing barely any clothing tbh and it made me wonder if they had belt loops?
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1
Got a $7 rump steak, chips and salad last night and it was delicious. Best $7 I've ever spent. Better than the $25 rump at my local pub. There was heaps of gravy, the steak have a lovely flavour, and plenty of chips. I love the staff here, always so dedicated and friendly. I'll be back next time I'm in brisbane for another good feed at a ridiculously low price.
Been going to Rics for quiet some time now, safe to say I am quiet the veteran. Made great friends with one of the staff Nina recently after repeated orders of vodka sunrises and can say she’s gotta be the best bartender in valley PERIOD. So friendly and sweet, amazing energy and the nicest smile pours drinks like a PRO, no under pours in sight.
hmm lets see.... this place knows how to feed a meat eater thats for sure, great rump cooked to divine perfection for old keith. metallica shirt on the clothes line a M and need a XXL which rubbed me the wrong way but ill try again. mrs thought the music was a bit much but she can be a wet blanket especially since the menopause. kind regards..
Worst DJs Ive ever witnessed. If you’re from Europe DO NOT come here. They play 30 secs of tracks that are 8-9 years old. The place is full of people and 4-5 people are ”dancing” for a minute then completely empty. This bar has soooo much potential. If they would let decent and updated DJs play this bar would be the centre of Brissy
The worst experience of our super evening in Brisbane the bar tender was rude ! And extremly not hospitable to take a simple order ! Sad ! Owners put so much into Their places and then u have stupid mediocre staff who jus go and mess it up ! Sad ! Never again !
Price per person
$60–80
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 4
went for a casual drink the other day. very chilled premises with a great idea of providing ample access to beer taps. I'm not sure whether anyone can just pour themselves a frothy beverage or a staff member has to be summoned but cool idea nonetheless. was a disgustingly hot day so for stars for lack of aircon
I might have an addiction to rics did my friends and I all get sick after visiting 2 nights in a row last week? maybe. but was it worth it absolutely anyways rics is love, rics is life and this is my formal proposal for rics to marry me <3 ♀️ ps. ur staff and DJs r immaculate ty
Ric's was fun for a little dance and a drink late on a weeknight with some colleagues. It was busy, but service was still fast and very cheap in my opinion! Some people were a bit messy, such as people throwing up in the bathroom line and in the sinks...... bit gross. But i had a good time.
Nothing better than crushing a few beers after work on a Friday with a couple of buddies here. Out the back you can take advantage of the bar and smokers tables while you recap the hell that was your week. A lively and social atmosphere without the cramped nature of a regular club or bar.
Horrible, horrible experience. Got kicked out whilst we were having a smoke and drink in the smokers sections. Asked the bouncer why we were getting told to leave (cause we were not being loud, drunk or disorderly), and he said that “he wasn’t going to give a reason but we needed to go”.
Where are they getting the staff from? I've never had a bad experience, the team are AMAZING. Super polite and deal with tricky situations very professionally. The music is on point, drinks are well priced for the valley. Can't speak highly enough of this venue. Something for everyone.
Absolutely awful management. The manager there with the big nose needs to stop being so power hungry and starting fights with patrons. Never have I been treated so disgustingly by someone. The place would improve immensely if she was fired, it's long overdue and word of mouth spreads.
This place smelt pungent, like sewage and rotten eggs. The music is the worst thing I have ever heard, the remixes are atrocious. And not to mention everybody there looks like a 90’s stereotypical high school bully. The smell though was really off putting.
Atmosphere: 1
Came here last Saturday lunch time with my partner for a couple of beers. Very nice selection of drinks, lots of big tables to sit at with good cover which was handy as it was raining. They also had a young guy playing guitar who was fantastic! We will definitely be back!
Ric's Backyard is abit of a destination in the valley these days if you like to party. Cool outdoorsy vibe with all the convenience of being inside. Gets pretty busy on the weekends but service is usually up to the task. Play a good mix tunes that everyone enjoys.
They almost broke my arm. My hand is still ache and I will never forget what they did to me. I wish normal people would prove to these giant companies that we still have power over them. No matter how much money they are earning from us. …
We had a meal fish batter was soggy rest of the meal was ok,we dined inside but the cigarette smoke from the patrons having a drink outside was coming inside not very nice
Price per person
$40–60
Food: 2
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 1
Lucky us, we got a table in this place at the right last second, than full! every single day specials, i could not believe the setak was $8 bucks, i cant say that was the best steak i have because wasnt, but for $8 bucks was good. amazing location
Went there on a Friday, and the bartender was free pouring drinks so terribly it tasted like a regular coke without jack, and a cocktail that tasted like a mocktail. Use the measurements! If paid $10 for a shot with my coke I want the whole shot
Had a great lunch here. The Chili Cheese Fries were perfect. I'd never had them with brisket before and it was amazing. The burger was also great, couldn't get over how big it was. This was a great value meal and I'll definitely be back again.
The place to be to smell sewerage and uncleaned grass! I’ve met many friends here, but scenery has changed significantly. Loud, music is unidentifiable, and dangerous! Covering your drinks would be a good idea
Price per person
$40–60
Very cool venue - the vibe is awesome and the eggs benny is great. The pancakes are ok - a little dry, but maybe Im just being fussy. Good iced coffee and orange juice. The waitress with the short hair is always lovely. Worth checking out.
Good vibes here. Got an $8 steak once and it was actually pretty good considering the price. Saw some guy get in trouble for hanging his wet shirt up on the clothes line... what is the point of it then? Apart from that it’s great x
An excellent music venue for live bands & a place to rub shoulders with other performing artists after their own gigs! Great breakfasts & meals all round! Wheelchair access is available & their own restroom! A great event venue!
First and last time there. Went for casual evening, heard cool life music so decided to walk in...ordered a cocktail...and I am not Bartender but I sure could make better Mojito with my eyes blindfolded. Shocker!
The place is beautiful. But I avoid places that employ racist bouncers. For this reason, I turned around in front of the entrance when I saw how he treated the young immigrant in front of us. Bad business card.
Nice venue, but the unattractive kitchen area could be covered up. Will come back to see bands here. Cool washing line
Price per person
$1–20
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 4
Nice and fun atmosphere and always meet good people. Always plays classic songs but the food is... bad to say the least if you go when they're serving. Stick to the drinks from the friendly bartenders.
Nice venue and good music but unfortunately my first night out ended with me getting kicked out due to me making a comment to a friend about the rude bouncer. Other than that was a pretty good evening
Fabulous outdoor space for live music in the heart of the Valley mall. It is like a backyard, complete with clothes still on the clothesline. Shout out to 'Is Mankind" for another moving outdoor set.
If only everyone who has been harassed, groped and/or cornered by predatory patrons would refuse to enter Ric's. Maybe then, it could finally shut down. And bring in something better and safer
Dear rics. Get a grip on the amount of men who grope women without consent. Recently moved to Melbourne and haven’t experienced this ever. If you want to feel unsafe then rics is your place
Christian is the greatest bartender, the absolute nicest guy I’ve ever had serve me a drink. I hope all bartenders I see are half as good on the future. My appreciation is incalculable.
Really fun place with great atmosphere and entertainment. Got served by Kayla who gave exceptional service all night with a smile on her face every time. Definitely coming back …
Naiol I think he said his name was. Really, really... really nice. I couldn’t afford my drink unfortunately (super silly mistake) anyways he paid the 2$ I was short. Absolute legend.
What an awesome place. I went to this place on a Thursday night and it was pumping. Live band, lots of people. It was tricky to find this place but was totally worth it.
Could’ve been an exceptional bar to hang out at every Friday, until the owner (Rick) hit one of his employee’s and now has solidified my decision in never going back.
Karaoke venue with Sunfly self serve digital catalogue. Could do better with microphones. Only one available and taped up so pretty rubbish. Pleasant enough crowd.
Food is great. Good serving and flavour I'd fantastic.
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
Recommended dishes
Thai Beef Salad
Please find a way to supply an alcohol free beer to be inclusive of everyone at your venue. Nearly every other bar offers an alcohol free beer option.
Fun atmosphere, nice music, stay away from the cocktails menu (ice, soda and liquor is not a cocktail). Just order a beer to be safe.
Poured out our drinks at 3:00 on the dot because they wanted to go home. Drinks we paid for. Kinda weird and not like other places.
Their daily dinner deal ia a good catch. Went for the Thursday night 10 buck burger and drink deal and it was pretty good.
Best smokers area in the valley, music wasn't that good, drinks can be pricey, staff are lovely, pretty good fun overall
Ethan has impeccable service, be back here in a heartbeat
Food: 5
Service: 5
Atmosphere: 5
not my vibes in general but it smelt really bad near the dance floor n ruined the possibility to have fun
Idk, i’ve only been outside like once before this, but do better.
Service: 1
Atmosphere: 1
Isaac is a lovely bartender. Very professional, friendly and respectful :)
Service: 5
Cheap drinks... Get what you pay for
Food: 3
Service: 3
Atmosphere: 3
I like this place, hit or miss if not friday tho.
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