88mph

88mph is a late-night bar in Civic, Canberra, built around an unmistakable 1980s theme. Its music references run from Blondie, David Bowie and ABBA to Wham!, Duran Duran, The Cure, Salt-N-Pepa, Madonna and John Farnham, setting the tone for a night focused on familiar anthems rather than background listening. The venue operates from Wednesday to Saturday, with late trading from 7pm until 3am.

The experience combines drinks, food and entertainment in one space. The bar serves classic cocktails and late-night pizza, while the light-up dance floor provides the main stage for 80s classics and high-energy nights out. DJs are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, adding another layer to the regular music program. Karaoke is also central to the venue, whether you want to take over the room with friends or join the crowd on the dance floor.

For groups, 88mph has two private karaoke rooms with upgraded systems. One room accommodates up to 14 people and the other up to 20, making them suited to birthdays, hens and bucks parties, or a casual group booking. The venue also promotes private functions and corporate or university events, with packages for groups of 10 to 220 people and the option to book part or all of the venue. Room hire pricing and occasional Wednesday or Thursday promotions are listed on the venue website and may change, so checking when booking is sensible.

The decor is designed to carry the theme throughout the night, with neon lighting and a dedicated dance floor creating a deliberately nostalgic setting. 88mph will appeal to groups looking for a social night of karaoke, dancing and drinks, as well as anyone who enjoys singing along to well-known 80s music. It is more focused on late-night entertainment than a quiet meal or intimate bar visit, with the strongest fit being celebrations, group outings and nights when the music is meant to be part of the occasion.