It’s been a huge couple of months in the bar world – and our September/October issue captures it all. From the electric highs of Sydney Bar Week to the unforgettable moments at the 2025 Bar Awards, this edition is packed with stories, people, and places shaping Australia’s vibrant bar scene.
Kicking off on page 5, The DTF from Frankie Cadillac serves up some serious inspiration from behind the bar. Then, our Headlines section on page 6 rounds up what’s happening – and what’s drinking, across the industry right now.
Looking to explore somewhere new? Head to page 14 your own personal guide to the latest bar openings from around the country.
Our cover story dives deep into this year’s Bartender of the Year competition (page 18), where the nation’s best bartenders battled it out for the ultimate title. Congratulations to our 2025 champion, Tanguy Charbonnet of Jackalope Hotels.
You’ll also find a How To feature (page 23) spotlighting a few of the classic gin cocktails that wowed judges at this year’s comp, and an inspiring Feature (page 28) with Bar Leone’s – Yuichi Hirayama on Japanese cocktail culture and the art of precision behind the bar.
In Back Bar, revisit The Classic (page 32) the Boulevardier – a timeless favourite that never fails to impress.
And, of course, we wrap it all up with the biggest week of the year: Sydney Bar Week 2025 (page 34). Relive the events, parties, and people that made it unforgettable, plus the night of celebration – our full list of winners and photo gallery from the 2025 Bar Awards.