Alcohol consumption is down while demand for quality drinks increases
FORGET binge drinking, we’re swapping tinnies for lemon-drenched Bulleit bourbon’s spiked with bitter citrus. Figures reveal we’re drinking less, but opting for the top shelf when we do.
NSW
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FORGET about binge drinking, we’re swapping tinnies for lemon-drenched Bulleit bourbon’s spiked with bitter citrus.
The latest figures reveal we are consuming less alcohol and opting to reach for the top shelf when we do partake in a tipple.
The trend is all about quality over quantity—small bars and cocktail joints are booming in popularity across Sydney, so in the name of research, we bar hopped to find the very best.
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST COCKTAIL BARS IN SYDNEY
Gilt Lounge at QT Sydney — sophisticated and sexy as hell. This space is frequented by all sorts at this intimate, late night hang out.
Our pick: The Spiced Apple Sour made with Bombay Sapphire Gin, ginger cloves, fresh apple, lemon, cinnamon and juniper.
49 Market St, Sydney.
Corridor — head up the rickety staircase that leads you through neon, candlelit hideaways, to a discover a cosy and sunny back deck.
Our pick: The Funky Cold Medina made with white rum, elderflower liqueur, muddled cucumber, fresh mint and lime juice.
153a King Street, Newtown.
Archie Rose — like an alcoholic playground for adults, there’s a bar, a distillery and a whole range of experiences including tours and workshops.
Our pick: The Hokkaido, made with Archie Rose x Horisumi-Winter Gin, infused with Tasmanian seaweed, paired with Yuzushu, smoked saline, Absinthe and samphire.
85 Dunning Ave, Rosebery.
Blackbird — fussy much? this place is perfect for those of you who are hard to please as they serve over 70 cocktail creations.
Try their crowd favourite: Fairy Floss Cosmopolitan.
201 Sussex street, Cockle Bay Wharf, Darling Harbour.
Rabbit Hole — this one you’ll want to fall down. Hidden in a basement under Sydney’s CBD, this little gem is raising eyebrows with their innovative cocktails.
Our pick: Jelly gin and tonic
82 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000
Zushi — serving a range of Japanese inspired cocktails, available by the jug.
Try their Kyoto Spring Punch- with vodka, apricot brandy, sparkling wine, passionfruit and Yuzushu (Yuzu flavoured sake).
2A/285 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Capriccio — no one does the pre-dinner drink better than the Italians.
Our pick: The Rosé Negroni is made with Capriccio’s orange vodka, Cocchi Rosa Americano and Campari.
159 Norton Street Leichhardt 2040
Henry Deane Cocktail Lounge, Hotel Palisade— a charming jewel with breathtaking views. Get in early to beat the crowds.
Our pick: Yuzu You Fizz made with Olmeca Altos tequila, Yuzushu, grapefruit shrub, lime, tonic.
35 Bettington Street, Millers Point.
Eau de Vie — a moody, seductive space where magic happens.
Our pick: Smokey Rob Roy made with Talisker and highland whiskies, cigar infused Zacapa rum, vermouth and orange bitters, served under a cloud of wood smoke.
229 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst.
In Situ — make sure you’re prepared for a long afternoon or evening as you’ll not want to leave this warm, welcoming place in a hurry.
Our pick: Apple Crumble Martini made with Absolut vanilla vodka shaken pomme de verte, creme de cacao and crisp apple poured straight up with a fresh cream float.
18 Sydney Road, Manly.
This Must Be The Place — winning awards is becoming old hat for these guys. They basically set the standard for everyone else, so do yourself a favour and get here as soon as you can.
Our pick: Backwoods: Lichen made with Bulleit bourbon, hay-smoked honey, ginger wine, mirin and punch abruzzo.
239 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst.
Tuxedo Bar—keeping Sydney classy, make a beeline for Sydney’s first dedicated espresso martini joint.
Our pick: The Candy Man martini: Amaretto, vodka, Kahlua and espresso in a hundreds and thousands coated cocktail glass.
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