Hubby and I went on a date and decided to test out the small bars that have taken over Sydney in the last year. For our international readers, Sydney has always been known for big grand bars, the bigger the better was the idea in the past. But now (thank god) we have embraced the small bar revolution thanks to our very proactive Lord Mayor Clover Moore who relaxed the licensing laws allowing really anyone to open a small bar. It has really brought out the creative side of most owners and we have some superb bars that compete with Melbourne (dare I say it)
The Baxter Inn was a real surprise. Same boys own Shady Pines and Tio's (read below) have created another very unique small bar that transports you back to Southern America. This has to be the best bar in Sydney right now especially if you are a scotch/whiskey drinker. The menu behind the bar staff which appeared to be the largest wine list we have ever seen, turns out to be the largest range of Scotch and Whiskey in Sydney - over 400 varieties.
For those cocktail lovers (me) don't be sad, it's not all scotch and whiskey, they do some great classics as well as wine and beer. It's hard to find, down an alley way around the corner, down some winding stairs to a big door that opens up to the most pumping energetic bar in Sydney. It's technically located at 154 Clarence Street visit them TODAY
Somethings going on in Clarence Street... first Baxter Inn above and then Grandma's Bar - both sensational fun bars. Grandmas is located at the Basement of the Fender Shop at 275 Clarence Street. It's a really great place that only fits about 50 ppl so get there earlish
Jaffles and cocktails - what more could you want after work ;) and I have to say, their customer service is outstanding, consider them for your next party - they were extremely accommodating with my requests and even offered to provide entire bar on a Sunday based on min 30 ppl. For more information visit www.grandmas.com.au
Now we haven't actually been to Since I Left You - I've been dying to try this since last year, but somehow never get to it but it's on the list - if you get to it let me know what it's like http://www.sinceileftyou.com.au/
Tio's was a real surprise. Same peeps as Shady Pines and Baxter. It's located on Foster Street in Surry Hills next door to Spence & Lyda. It's VERY new, opened Dec 2011. It totally feels like you've stepped off a Mexican beach to the local bar for the night... it's the local that everyone needs. The Cocktails were the best of the night - all tequila infused (heaven for me) but the variations were really impressive. Everyone was served free chipotle infused popcorn which went down a treat - this is on the highly recommended list....
El Loco has some mixed reviews but I personally love it here. The food is cheap fast and very tasty although not very authentic but really fab either way. Apparently same boys as Ms Gs at head of menu selection. It's a super fun but can get very hectic - it's another addition to the Merivale stable and my favourite one.
The tacos are the best as well as the tortilla salad, the burgers and hot dogs not very Mexican but I hear tasty - but stick to the tacos. The Coriander and Lemongrass Margaritas are so refreshing.
Our last stop for the night and a late dinner was at Barrio Chino, I'm not big on their cocktails here but the food is absolutely sensational. The tacos, the salads - everything is really authentic and super tasty. To add to the great food the ambiance is really fun, crowd is relaxed and the tequila list excellent.... ;)
LOVE this post and want to drink cocktails right now even though it's only 9.42am...
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