Sydney has long had a love affair with New York inspired venues and the latest to grace our shores is Esquire Drink + Dine, a late night bar and restaurant perched on level 2 of the Queen Victoria Building.
Esquire Drink + Dine Bar – Photo Credit: Damian Flanagan
Esquire channels a New York supper club, combining a large dining space accommodating up to 140 persons with an elegant oak bar framed by the classic arches. Dark and moody lighting sets the tone, along with mosaic and parquetry flooring and soft leather seating that feels right at home with the QVB’s historical Romanesque revival architecture.
The bar at Esquire Drink + Dine features an extensive selection of spirits and the cocktail menu opens with a 17 strong cocktail list, be it signature drinks or classics given a new twist. Each cocktail comes with its own story, a cheeky description, or “Now just order the damn drink…”.
From the signature cocktails, Mind Games combines añejo rum with Adelaide Hills Orange Bitter, Okar Amaro, Pineapple, Chamomile served ESQ branded ice while Sheep in Wolves Clothing brings together duck fat-infused spiced rum, barley, pandan syrup and bitters. Classics include the Vesper, Sazerac, Paper Plane and the Hemingway Daiquiri – cocktails that befit the classic elegance of the venue.
For those seeking a lighter option or an aperitif ideal for any season, the Vermouth list spans Australia, France and Italy tempts with its offering of 60ml serves. A modest collection of Bitters or Amari is also available for after dinner tipples.
Esquire Drink + Dine is open daily from 12 pm till late.
Click through the following pages to view images of the venue and a selection of the cocktails.
