A new cocktail and tapas bar is about to bring a bold splash of glam to Port Douglas’ Grant Street. Cosmos, opening Saturday, July 12, promises cocktails to die for, refined tapas, and a laid-back yet stylish vibe.

Founded by Angela Whittaker, Cosmos was born from a simple idea: creating a place where people could feel good, look good, and truly enjoy a night out.

“Port Douglas has beautiful boutiques and plenty of laid-back spots,” Angela said, “but not many places where you can really dress up for the evening.

“I wanted to create somewhere people could glam up, feel amazing, and enjoy themselves in a cool, air-conditioned space.”

Every inch of Cosmos reflects Angela’s vision, from the golden accents and deep green tones to the plush booths, high-top chairs, and cosy lounge corners. 

The vibe? A perfect balance of polished and playful, elegant yet energetic.

By day, it’s the ideal spot for catching up over cocktails and small plates in the comfort of the lounge or out in the fresh air.

As the sun sets, the venue shifts into night mode; think moody lighting and interactive social darts with a live leaderboard.

On weekends, there will be live DJ sets and Cosmos hosts afternoon teas with sweet and savory bites, finger sandwiches, deserts and bubbles, perfect for catching up in style.

As for the name? It started with Angela’s love of the classic Cosmopolitan cocktail, or “Cosmo”.

“The nickname felt fun, feminine, and instantly recognisable, a perfect fit,” she said.

Then came the coincidence. After landing on the name Cosmos, Angela discovered the building’s official name was The Cosmopolitan.

“We had no idea,” she laughed. “It was just meant to be.”

The menu

At the bar is seasoned mixologist Alex Karimnia, who brings over a decade of experience, including seven years focused on craft cocktails. 

Originally from the U.S., he’s worked in James Beard Award-winning restaurants and, more recently, behind the bar at Jimmy Rum’s.

At Cosmos, Alex is shaking things up with timeless classic cocktails, gourmet frozen drinks, ice cold martinis, and signature takes on the classic Cosmo.

On the food side, Spanish chef Alberto brings a fresh take on tapas-style dining, with small plates designed to complement the drinks and encourage sharing.

The kitchen wraps up tapas service around 9pm, but from then until 11pm, guests can tuck into flatbread pizzas - light, crisp, and perfect for sharing.

“It’s exactly what I’d want to eat myself,” Angela said with a laugh. “If it were my bar - oh wait, it is - this is exactly how I’d do it.”