Back Bar

The look:  The only problem with this laidback retro cocktail lair has been the lack of space but now the Back Bar has extended upstairs to create the Gold Lounge. It boasts the same baroque salon/bachelor pad/hunting lodge vibe with Chloe the yak taking pride of place over the dance floor.
The great outdoors: Café style alfresco quaffing is possible on the footpath until 1am.
To drink: A wide selection of creatively titled cocktails like Le Pink Bits, as well as local and imported boutique beers, wines and spirits.
To eat: No nibbles as such but if you’re hosting a soiree for 30 or more, you can access the canapé menu.
The crowd: Spans would-be celebutantes to emo kids to corporates depending on the night.
Best for: A popular function venue, it’s worth ringing ahead on weekends to check the state of play. Otherwise, Back Bar is reliably good for a mid-week catch-up or late-afternoon tipple.

By Marinella Padula