One of the growing trends that we reported back in 2014 is the transformation and revitalisation of pubs into modern, inviting spaces with a solid food and beverage offering. In short, these venues are embracing the small bar ethos and doing it very well. Such is the case with Bar Moncur.
Bar Moncur
What was once the downstairs bar of The Woollahra Hotel, Bar Moncur has been transformed into an elegant and inviting cocktail lounge beyond a brief pre/post dinner stop. Located adjacent to Sydney institution, Bistro Moncur, the new look is the result of an extensive refurbishment that breathes new life into the Woollahra venue.
The sleek wrap around bar forms the centrepiece of the space surrounded by comfortable leather booths, marble tables and stylish furniture in shades of emerald green.
Interior
The elegant design is somewhat reminiscent of a hotel lobby bar, a sophisticated space in which to enjoy cocktails for two or drop in with friends before and after dinner.
Kurtis Bosley, Group Bars Manager
Being located beside a French bistro, some of the drinks take a French slant with their ingredients and flavours, Kurtis Bosley, Group Bars Manager of Public House Management Group explains.
The bar offerings start with spritz style and low alcohol options for pre dinner and progress to more spirit-forward cocktails to enjoy after dinner. The cocktails start at $22 with top shelf spirits and three options for spirit choice: “Just Pour” for $22, “Step It Up” for $26, and “Let’s Go Top Shelf” for $30.
Le Chambery
Le Chambery combines strawberry infused gin with a sparkling dry rosé and thyme garnish. The aperitif cocktail is light and elegant with a hint of strawberry, a gentle fizz on the tongue and the woody notes of thyme. It makes for easy sipping before dinner and at any time of the day.
Midnight Run
Midnight Run is a Madeira forward drink made with Vdka 6100, Madeira Sercial 10 yo, Moncur Strawberry and Rose Syrup and fresh lemon juice. An elegant and textural drink that you sip through the foam with the creaminess of the whey-based vodka as the backbone.
Rombanse
Rombanse is one of the favourites and it’s easy to see why it has become one of the signature cocktails. It brings together 1996 Delord Bas Armagnac with Lillet Rosé, Cointreau, Moncur rosehip and rhubarb syrup, fresh lemon, egg white and an orange mist with a dehydrated strip of rhubarb as garnish. The cocktail is beautifully balanced and pays respect to the excellent Delord Armagnac. Take a sip then a nibble of the garnish for a flavour sensation.
Whisky Business
Whisky fans would do well to indulge in Whisky Business which combines Glenmorangie with Ardbeg 10 yo, passion fruit, mint and fresh lemon in a sour style drink that starts sweet, followed by smoke on the mid palate, sour with a touch of spice on the finish. All elements are well balanced and this makes for an easy sipping whisky cocktail.
Caribbean Cacao Old Fashioned
Rum and chocolate make a fine combination and the Caribbean Cacao Old Fashioned brings together Zacapa rum with creme de cacao, grapefruit bitters, orgeat and an orange twist for garnish. Served on clear ice, the after dinner cocktail balances the richness of the rum with the chocolate notes while the orgeat adds a hint of nuttiness on the finish.
If you’re still undecided, “Bartenders Pick” allows patrons to enjoy creative bespoke cocktails and for bartenders to flex their creative skills. You never know, you may be the first to be sipping on the next seasonal cocktail or enjoying a sneak peek at the new cocktail menu.
Photography © by Gourmantic – Copyright: All rights reserved.
Bar Moncur
116 Queen Street, Woollahra
woollahrahotel.com.au/venues/bar-moncur/
Hours: Mon-Sat from 11am to late; Sun from 12pm to late.
