The Australian craft distilling boom has led to the rise of the distillery bar and the latest to open in Sydney is Kings Cross Distillery.
Kings Cross Distillery – Photo Supplied
Located between Macleay Street and Llankelly Place laneway in the vicinity of the Kings Cross fountain, the NSW distillery was once a 1960s speakeasy and illegal gambling den, and in the 1970s, an X-rated book store and later became Ecstasy Adult Bookstore.
Lavish gold details accentuate the plush dark green leather booths and seats along with modern finishes, exposed brick walls and polished concrete floors that channel a 1920s speakeasy vibe. The split level bar is designed to allow guests to enhance their experience and explore different sections of the venue. Cocktails can be enjoyed at the front bar or at the back with access via a wall of nude pin up photography, a nod to the venue’s colourful history. The former vault now stores the distillery’s bottles of gin.
The bar’s 12 strong cocktail list includes the Sin and Tonique, a “deliciously sinful floral gin and tonic”, and Pepperation Makes Perfect, described as “a gin old fashioned with savoury complexions”. There’s the Aalto Martini, inspired by the culinary delights of the Middle East and Tally me’ Banana where tiki meets freaky. For those seeking an alcohol-free alternative, a choice of four drinks includes the Pear of Jokers and Absinth and Costello. It’s not just gin that takes centre stage. The bar also offers an international and local whisky collection as well as Cognac and Calvados.
Kings Cross Distillery opens its doors to the public on Thursday 1 October 2020.
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