Taylor Square is getting a taste of the tropics with the arrival of Happy Talk, a new Tiki-inspired bar launching upstairs at the Courthouse Hotel this Saturday, 5 July.
Taking over the site of the former Judgement Bar, the venue is led by General Manager of Bars Paul Mant and General Manager of Food Ben Turner, who wanted to reimagine one of Oxford Street’s best-known addresses.
“We were looking to breathe fresh life into the much-loved Judgement Bar,” Mant told Australian Bartender. “Our research pointed to a Tiki bar–sized hole in the local market, plus rum is starting to make a serious comeback. So along came Happy Talk. As a concept, Tiki is fun, approachable, and colourful enough to fit right into the Taylor Square community.”
The drinks list features playful spins on Tiki classics, including the Big Island Oahu Dark & Stormy and the Three-Headed Zombie, alongside a rotating list of chalkboard specials. Food-wise, expect bar snacks like Firecracker Coconut Prawns and Pork & Pineapple Skewers.
“Other fun signatures include the Wrong Island Iced Tea – a riff on the classic Long Island in name and spirit, but with a total Tiki takeover,” Mant said. “It’s made with Espolon Tequila, Ketel One Vodka, Tanqueray Gin, Silver Reserve Rum, Cointreau, mango, passionfruit, guava, pineapple, and Angostura bitters. It’s frozen, blended and served in singles or group serves.”
The venue’s design, led by Shantala Mack, brings together salvaged textures, surf shack touches and a warm, nostalgic feel that matches the playful tone of the drinks list.
“We wanted to create something fun and unexpected for Oxford Street,” Mant said. “Happy Talk is cheeky, it’s colourful. No ego – just a great time.”
Group Bars Manager Josh MacMahon shared with Australian Bartender his favourite on the menu: “My pick is our signature riff on a Fog Cutter – Tanqueray Gin, Goslings Black Strap Rum, Applejack Brandy, fresh apple juice, passionfruit, lychee and lemon. It takes a somewhat boring Tiki original and makes it so much more fun and approachable. Dangerously well-balanced.”