Though Sydney might have developed a penchant for south-of-the-border, down-Mexico-way kind of flavours there’s still a whole lot be mined north of the border.
New Bars
New Bars
The Curious Squire has taken up residence on the site where Sparrow used to be, and is going all in on beer.
Perhaps it was the dearth of good Mexican food for so long that led Sydney-siders to so wholeheartedly embrace its flavours. Perhaps it’s because great Mexican is about vibrant and fresh produce (of which Australia has plenty) thrown together simply and cheaply (of which bar owners like plenty). Or maybe it’s just that it goes so damn well with tequila and mezcal.
Things are looking up for Sydney’s North Shore. Whilst the area has always had some great pubs, things have been a bit hit and miss when it comes to smaller drinking around North Sydney.
But The Botanist looks set to change that.
Monopole is the new Potts Point wine bar from Bentley owners, chef Brent Savage and sommelier Nick Hildebrant. While the focus might be on wine, the drinks list isn’t to be neglected: it’s one for the spirits geeks too.
With new bar legislation looking like it will come into effect in March, Adelaide looks set to become the next Australian cocktail destination. Looking to lead that charge is The Collins, the new bar opening soon at the Hilton, smack bang in the middle of the city. We got a look at the bar last week and were impressed with what we saw — the decor is sharp and the back bar is taking shape.
For some 32 years or so, the space at 55 Riley Street (now home to the Parlour Group’s new bar, Riley Street Garage) was Frank Lowy’s parking space, said new owner Brody Petersen.
This week sees the opening of a new bar in the Speakeasy group’s stable: Bottleneck. Located in the space that the now defunct Art Lounge occupied in the Kirketon Hotel (and practically on Eau de Vie’s doorstep) the new bar from Sven Almenning and company…
Within a crowd’s roar of the MCG, the Mt View Hotel will no doubt provide much-needed refreshment for those heading to the cricket this summer. They’ve spruced up the offering upstairs on the rooftop, decking it out with craft beers and a new emphasis on cocktails.
Back in our June issue we brought you the news that this bar from Chris Denman (who placed 2nd to Jason Williams in the Bartender Magazine 2010 Bartender of the Year competition) and partner Stevie Wright would be coming. Its been open a few months now, and things are going well.
Beer is more important to Aussie bars than ever. Tippler’s Tap is testament to this – as manager Carl Rhodes describes it, Tippler’s “is a small neighbourhood bar with no pretense, no dress code and no crap beer.” Seems they’re clear about what they want to do with the place.
Gilt Lounge is tucked away above Gowings Bar & Dining in the quirky QT Hotel, Sydney. It is luxurious, it is exclusive, but don’t take that as bywords for a lazy bar program – this place has invested seriously in doing drinks and drinks service well.