Article by Tom Scott, Brand Ambassador for The Exchange. You can follow him on insta @capt_t_scott
In early 2022, three rising stars of the industry finally opened the doors on their very own venue. Tony Huang, Tim Pope, and partner Aimee-Louise Pope didn’t sit idle during the extended Covid lockdowns but set about refining their ideas and bringing to life a bar concept that speaks to their beliefs on what hospitality is. It is evident with Par. that their answer is welcoming conversations, delightfully refined cocktails, and elegantly simple service.
Let’s meet two of the owners Tony and Tim.
Where did the two of you meet?
Tim- We met a few years ago when I was a judge for the Perfect Blend competition and Tony was a competitor. Since then, we have been the opening team for Cloakroom Bar, South Melbourne and Valhalla Bar on Collins Street. So, we’re coming up to 4 years working together.
“We wanted to present drinks in a way that truly gave the cocktail a chance to be appreciated by each individual regardless of drinking preference, making sure the first sip is just as perfect as the last.” – Tim Pope
Why the name Par.?
Tony – the name Par. is derived from its Latin roots, meaning equal in value or circumstance. This ethos is something that resonates strongly with us and our approach to creating a unique drinking experience.
Where did the ‘no ice’ ethos come from?
Tim – there are a multitude of factors, controlled dilution/temperature, consistency, and the ability to impart flavours into our dilution. We wanted to present drinks in a way that truly gave the cocktail a chance to be appreciated by each individual regardless of drinking preference, making sure the first sip is just as perfect as the last.
In a nutshell, we wanted to create a modern bar with original (NEO) drinks and techniques reflecting this.
Why are all drinks served in a wine glass?
Tony – it’s the perfect glassware to present our style of clean minimalist drinks and to champion the aroma which makes up 80% of the flavours you interpret. The second reason is like our name – creating balance is important to us and that all be presented equally. We are encouraging choices based on flavour rather than visuals. In a sense like on all of our socials we encourage guests to #transformexpectations
Favourite source of inspiration?
Tony – Orlando Marzo for his work at Lume and to date. Nick Tesar for all his constant tips and tricks and just being a straight-up legend.
Tim – Probably John Hallett. He gave me my first cocktail bar job and taught me the fundamentals. he gave me the passion and confidence to pursue this as my career. Plus, he brought me onboard with a baby on the way. Thanks Uncle John.
PAR. is located at 2/360 Brunswick St, Fitzroy VIC 3065 and is open Thursday to Monday from 5pm (2pm Sundays) – www.parmelbourne.com
This story is proudly presented by the team from The Exchange
To find out more about the training and support you can get from The Exchange, reach out to the team here.