Gerald’s Bar

The look: Stylishly idiosyncratic – net kitchen curtains, Laminex and tea-towel tablecloths are offset by Buddha statues, a tribal mask and a giant David Bailey portrait. Strange, but somehow it all works.
The vibe: Much like a low-key house party but without the beer in the bathtub.
To drink: All wines are by the glass, so there’s no pining for that pinot you can’t have. The broad-ranging list covers regions from Alsace to Macedon, and sherry seems to have a special place in Gerald’s heart. Try the 55-year-old ‘Don Juan’ Lopez Hermanos Pedro Ximenez ($25 per glass).
To eat: A concise selection of deli-influenced platters and tapas style bites such as blue eye ceviche or braised lamb (both $10).
The soundtrack: Laid-back jazz and Latin at conversation-friendly volume.
Bathroom low-down: The loos are a bit of a squeeze. Ralph Fiennes would love them.
Best for: An intimate heart-to-heart or pre-dinner drinks.
In a word: Neighbourly.

By Marinella Padula

Address: 386 Rathdowne St, Carlton North
Phone: 9349 4748
Open: Monday - Saturday