Toko Restaurant & Bar

Address: 490 crown street, Surry Hills

Arigatou gozaimasu. ありがとうございます

My birthday is in August and this year was a milestone (well in my mind they’re all milestones but this one ended with a zero). I celebrated by going on a holiday with my two sisters. It was fabulous. And with the month just about over, my final birthday present was in site… the annual birthday dinner with one of my friends.

I knew it was going to be fun. Their birthday last year (which also ended with a zero) included cocktails at Hemmepshere, dinner at Sushi E, followed by more cocktails and finished the night with a cigar. Won’t be having a cigar again. Learnt that lesson.

They take me to Toko Restaurant & Bar in Surry Hills and enter a dimly lit Japanese haven. I love it. We are seated on one of the elegant booth seats, surround by honey coloured curved, sleek wood interior. I scan over the cocktail menu and decide on a Fig Martini, made from fig infused vodka, fig essence, sherry and garnished with two home glazed figs. It is strong and delicious. By the end of the night I have another two. I figure if I'm on to a good thing, why change.

Being people who don’t like making decisions on food we order the tasting menu. A excellent option. Toko offers Japanese food and cocktails at its fine-dining best, I would rate Toko above all other fine Japanese restaurant and bars in Sydney, beating Ocean room, Sake and Sushi E.

But that is all from me for now, I have to go… I’m on the lookout for fig essence.






Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale





See for yourself: http://www.toko.com.au/index_surryhills.cfm

Shady Pines Saloon

Address: Shop 4, 256 Crown Street, Darlinghurst

Wild Wild West

 

Having grown up on a farm, I was looking forward to heading to the country-and-western-style tavern, Shaddy Pines Saloon. After work I jump in a cab, pick up my friend on Elizabeth St and head to a small lane parallel to Oxford St. The bar is next door to the Bikram Yoga school. Don’t look for a big sign. There isn’t one. 

As it's always full on a Friday night there is a strict one in one out policy, however my friend and I only have to wait a few minutes before the door is opened for us and we head down the stairs to the wild west. There’s carved American Indians around the room, animal heads leering out from the walls (including a large cow’s head) and old bottles (that my dad would love) and other random items. 

While the place is full and very loud it still has a great buzz to it, I can imagine that if it wasn't busy the place would seem a bit odd. I head to the bar to get our drinks. I do my usual and ask the bar staff for the best vodka, sour cocktail he can make. The outcome.  A Harvey Wall Banger. Tasty.

As my friend and I were enjoying our drinks the barman comes past and places a wooden bowl of whole peanuts that you shell yourself.  Nice touch. Pity the guy that was sitting behind us kept taking a few every time he walk past… that annoyed me. I was never good at sharing.

It's my friends turn to get the drinks and we decided on mohito’s. They come back with two rum and cokes (yuk). The the barman didn't understand them and they were too polite to question what they received. They also inform me that when paying for the drinks and handing over three $5 notes, the barman looks and says, “I think you've been fooled, this is a fake $5!!!!. WHAT…they look closer at the $5 bill. Yep, they’ve been fooled. I decide that I will get our final drinks and order two South Sides. Highly recommend.

Shaddy Pines is a great bar, with friendly staff, tasty cocktails and a lot of wild west cheer. I am certain I'll be back.

Spot the difference

Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale 

See for yourself: www.shadypinessaloon.com

Emmilou

Address: 413 Bourke Street, Surry Hills

Corporate chat and cocktails

My friend seems to always get invited to fabulous functions. On this occasion they needed a “handbag”. I have no issue being the side kick from time to time, so I happily oblige.

This function is at Emmilou, a converted terrace in Surry Hills situated towards the Oxford Street end of Bourke Street. Neither of us has been there before, so when our taxi misses the location we jump out and walk back a block.

We arrive, are greeted and are instantly offered a cocktail called “More than Greg”, named after the host. It is superb. Not sure what was in it… I was too busy enjoying it (and talking) to ask.

This lounge and bar is down to earth with a touch of class. With the sounds of upbeat rythems playing in a mist of reds, blacks, mirrors, scribbles on walls, and ghost chairs.

With a cocktail in hand we do the rounds of corporate chat and make our way to the tapas bar. Not that I am a food reviewer, but I need to mention that the tapas here are fabulous. You must try the Duck Liver Parfait… you may need to wait a while though... I think I ate their entire stock.

With Emmilou’s exceptional tapas and cocktails, wonderful music and perfect service, I’ll happily take on the role as “handbag” anytime.

Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.emmilou.com.au/

Since I left you

Address: 338 Kent Street, Sydney

Ahhh honey…

I discovered Sydney’s latest hideaway bar. It has such a great name that when I come across it I instantly emailed one of friends and arranged to go out.

Since I Left You is currently in its 8th week of operation and is located in an old converted warehouse building. We arrive at a cobble-stoned carriageway and make our way down the narrow space, past the heaters and tables that line the wall, to the courtyard. While the space is about the size of a tennis court, it doesn’t offer any chairs or lounges to sit on. Not wanting to spend all night standing my friend and I head inside to the tiny bar. This narrow space is full with the usual after work suspects. It feels cosy and relaxing with a blend of old and new, a pressed metal ceiling and bar, along with art deco lighting and posters.

My friend and I take a seat on 2 ottomans right near a ‘loved up’ couple. The place is quite noisy and I secretly think “great, they won’t want to stay here for too long; surely they will want to go home soon”. They read my mind (or I was thinking out loud) as not long after we sit down they head off to enjoy the rest of their evening. Without delay my friend and I jump into their bench seats. The bar offers table service. Perfect. As I am too lazy and pre occupied to get up.

The cocktails on offer are more of your classics, but they do have a couple of signatures. I scan down the list and decide on XHOOCHX, purely because it refers to “a soft seduction of your tastebuds with elderflower, vanilla and kiwifruit”. It’s quite nice. There is a small problem though, the menu doesn’t actually tell you what spirits are in your cocktail which makes it a bit of a gamble (obviously you could always ask the bar staff).

The crowd clears by 7.30, just in time for my next selection. Honey Pot. A playful mix of vanilla, peach and honey, finished with pomegranate seeds. While definitely more of your girly variety it tastes wonderful. Actually, it's so good I think I could have a bath in it... might be a bit sticky though.

Another Honey Pot later, I jump in a taxi and call it a night.

Since I Left You is a great spot for an after work or post dinner beverage, and with the bar currently in negotiations to open up the floor above them, hopefully in time for summer, I will be back.


Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale   

 

See for yourself: www.sinceileftyou.com.au

The Owl House

Address: 97 Crown Street, Darlinghurst

Trying to find wisdom in the bottom of a glass

After getting my first ever parking fine (I only bought my car in January...it’s fabulous!) I went out with a friend to commiserate. I was annoyed. That $143 could have brought me a pair of shoes that were on sale.

We head to The Owl House. This restaurant and bar is situated in a small terrace on Crown Street near the corner of William. The place is busy and small, with a ten-seater bar taking up most of the space downstairs. The friendly barman informs my friend and I that there’s a spot for us on the balcony. We head up the steep terrace steps, through the restaurant with a mix of communal seating areas, to the small balcony that can seat four.

As I enjoy people watching I like our spot with the view of Crown Street, the Westfield Eiffel Tower and the guy dressed like Ali G... I don't think he was meaning to though.

I order a Green Martini (cucumber, wasabi, ginger puree, vanilla vodka and sake) I ask the waitress what it's like. Her response "it's interesting". My friend orders a gin and tonic... not so interesting. I take a sip. The verdict. A little too Japanese for my liking... still drinkable though.

For my next cocktail I ask the waitress for her recommendation. She tells me she like's tequila. Tequila isn't my friend. I ask her for her next favourite. Side Car (Hennessey VS cognac, Grand Marnier, lemon juice and sugar around the rim of the glass). While tasty and lemony, it's not as good (or sweet) as the lemon cocktail from Sub Solo.

If you’re after interesting cocktails, Asian fusion food, all in a small busy bar with friendly staff, then come along to The Owl House to find your words of wisdom. Mine... it's always wise to have cocktails on a Friday.


Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale 

See for yourself: www.theowlhouse.com.au

Galle Fort Hotel

Address: 28 Church Street, Fort Galle, Sri Lanka

A review from Lotus Martini’s International Correspondent, Sri Lanka

On a mission from Lotus Martini, I discover one of Sri Lanka’s gems – The Galle Fort Hotel - the epitome of a boutique hotel and bar with no pretension or formality yet effortless style.
 

It’s owned and operated by Aussies Karl Steinberg and his partner Chris Ong who swapped high flying careers in film-making and finance in Sydney to pursue more fulfilling hotelier dreams.

The cocktail menu has the feel of a trendy Surry Hills bar with a breezy laid back vibe.

The crowd are expats living in Sri Lanka’s balmy climate who mingle over Cosmopolitans and honeymooners or stare into each other’s eyes drinking martinis in the pool surrounded by sweet smelling lilies and floating candles.

I relax on the day bed gazing out through the plantation shutters at the cobblestone streets. I feel the warm breeze from the Indian Ocean and am grateful for the ceiling fans cooling the place down. Galle is hot, too hot to be outdoors. The environment is just right for sitting, reading and drinking cocktails.

I take a seat in the front bar with my tall and handsome companion and order the Galle Fort signature which is a refreshing blend of vodka, lychee, lime, passionfruit juice and brown sugar.  My companion orders the Banana Colada – something of a luxury back home in Sydney with the outrageous cost of bananas. This cocktail is a dreamy blend of fresh banana, white rum, malibu, coconut cream, cream de banana and pineapple juice.  The tasteful and classic décor take me back in time to when this hotel was once a wealthy Dutch merchant’s house. The service is reminiscent of the British colonial times in Ceylon: respectful, attentive, polite and wrapped up with warm and welcoming smiles.

The table of expat journalists next to us drink Long Island Iced Teas while discussing a story on how Galle is rebuilding itself after much of the town was destroyed by the tsunami back in 2004 (the Galle Fort Hotel in the old part of the town escaped the damage caused by the tsunami being protected by the fort’s wall).  On another table, a young, well dressed Sri Lankan couple sip on a Gin Fizz and a Lion Lager beer.

The atmosphere is exotically romantic. We love it here so much, we almost miss our airport pick up.  To quote Australian Gourmet Traveller, " Galle raises the question: why didn't someone tell me about this place sooner?” I say the same about the Galle Fort Hotel – it’s no wonder they are the winner of Sri Lanka’s Leading Boutique Hotel award in 2010 World Travel Awards. I could stay here forever…

See for yourself: http://www.galleforthotel.com/

Capital Grill

Address: The Gateway, 1 Macquarie Place, Sydney (Entrance cnr Loftus Street & Reiby Place).

Do you really need to bring a laptop to a bar?

A celebration was in order; a friend got a new job. So I organised a few of us to get together to celebrate their success. We head to Capital Grill.

Capital Grill is located in an awaked space tucked away in The Gateway building in Circular Quay. With its towering glass walls and swish surrounds this bar and restaurant includes a ground floor dining area, a mezzanine and an alfresco courtyard offering an undercover island marble bar.

It’s smart and very corporate. There’s even a gentleman in the corner working on his laptop. I found that a bit odd. He was by himself, surely if you were that busy you would stay at the office. Well I would anyone. Maybe he hasn’t learnt a key lesson that I have…trying to work and drink at the same time doesn't give you the best results.

The group decides to buy a few bottles of wine from its apparently very good wine list, I wouldn't know, I really don't know how to pick wine and generally leave it to others.

We baste under the outdoor heaters, talk some rubbish and then call it a night. I should mention that the staff are very friendly and professional. I left my wallet at the bar, and those of you who know me, would not be surprised. I tend to miss place a lot of things quite often. My work pass, wallet, mobile and keys are the top of my list... I went back the next morning to pick it up, every item was still there.

Capital Grill is open early so you can come in for a mid-morning coffee, a corporate lunch or business meeting or grab some friends, tapas and wine by night.
 

Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale 

See for yourself: http://www.capitalgrill.com.au/

Russell Wine Bar

Address: 143a George Street, Sydney

Is a stuffed peacock really necessary?

A couple of friends and I had arranged to catch-up after work, one of them isn't handling the cold weather very well (there from a country where very small bikinis are a year round option). Lucky for us I had just been informed of a new cosy wine bar in The Rocks. We brace the cold and head to Russell Wine Bar.

Two of us are seated on a bench table made from the wood of old wine boxes, order a glass of sparkling and wait for our friend.

The warm tones of the decor make for a cosy and relaxed drinking spot. The bar does have a random peacock theme to it though, with a feather pattern on the leather booth seats and even a stuffed peacock on the wall. Which I must say I was not impressed with.

The tunes are also interesting. Not that I mind Dolly Pardon's classic "working nine to five", I have fond memories of my sisters and I dancing to it (I'm pretty sure our routine included a briefcase. Can't remember for certain though... I was only 10), it just doesn't suit the bar.  

Our friend arrives and is impressed with the bar staff, apparently they asked them how their day had been (and actually seemed interested to find out). After a number of glasses we decide that we should eat and order a few dishes from their great tapa style menu.

While Russell Wine Bar is a convenient meeting place for after-work drinks, it will need to not only play tunes that suit a cosy bar, but also be careful not to fall into the tourist trap that many bars and restaurants succumb to in The Rocks.





Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale 

See for yourself: http://www.therussellwinebar.com.au/

Ms G’s

Address: 155 Victoria St, Potts Point

Good morning Vietnam

When the planets are finally aligned some old friends and I are reunited. We head to Ms G's.

This Asian restaurant and bar has quickly built a fine reputation since its opening in December 2010. It is located in a five storey terrace in Potts Point and each floor is filled with quirky decorations and recycled furniture. As there is a no booking policy, and I am the first to arrive, I give my name and the number of guests and wait for my friends.

We head up to the bar located on the third floor. The walls are covered with old classic magazine covers; Hustler, Playboy, Rolling Stone and I think my personal favourite Sweet Cheeks. Hugh Grant's famous Divine Brown mug shot is even on the wall.

I’m intrigued by their "package cocktails" which are served in bubble tea style packaging. I order "Good morning Vietnam" (Shochu, raspberries, lime, palm sugar, Vietnamese mint, soda), it is truly delicious... and potentially dangerous. I had to remember that it was not my usual bubble tea that I order from Easy Way.

When we have all arrived we are taken to our table. The waiter in his army style uniform takes our order on an Etch-a-Sketch. I love it (I should confess I actually have one at home). The food is excellent; their dirty martini's superb... I’m impressed. If you enjoy quiet locations, where you can make a booking and are seated quickly I would advise you to go elsewhere. Ms G’s is fun, quirky, loud and fabulous.

After a number of hours, dishes, wine and cocktails the waiter comes with our selection of dessert, and says "it's better than sex". You will have to come and try to decide for yourself.








Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.merivale.com/#/msgs/msgs

Pocket Bar

Address: 13 Burton Street, Darlinghurst

Another Birthday. Another Bar

A belated birthday celebration was underway and 6 of us head to Pocket Bar; most of the group wanted to walk, but some shoes (or in my case most) aren’t made for walking, so a friend and I leave 15 minutes later and jump into a taxi.

We arrive on the corner of Crown and Burton st, open the wrought iron gates to the sounds of 70's funk and walk into a drinking den that is friendly, casual and effortlessly cool.

After securing our place on the retro couches we head to the glass top counter bar, it showcases random things; matchbooks, cards, and other knickknacks. It also doubles as a book shelf, which if you where inclined, would allow you to read the latest national geographic while sipping a martini. 

While I was waiting for my Rose Petal martini (which I need to highlight is a lot nicer than the one offered at Blu Bar on 36 in the Shangri-La hotel) I saw what I thought was an old typewriter, I instantly wanted to touch it. As I get closer I realise it's actually some form of old-school calculator. It lost its appeal. I still pretended to type on it though.

As I look at the pop art and bric-a-brac, that covers the walls of the bar, I notice that there's a grammatical error in one of the painted speech bubbles. For a second I considered letting one of the staff know. I didn't ... they have probably had it pointed out by other well meaning patrons countless times and I doubt they would care.  

After two excellent gibson martini’s and one of the bars delicious crepes, I call it a night. Pocket Bar is an excellent small bar. Lotus Martini will be back.

Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.pocketsydney.com.au/

Rockpool Bar & Grill

Address: 66 Hunter Street, Sydney

Simply stunning

There was a special occasion, my best friends birthday, and to celebrate I take them to Rockpool Bar and Grill. As I have only ever been to the restaurant, we decide we should arrive an hour before dinner to have a few pre-dinner beverages.

Located in one of the finest art deco buildings in Sydney, right above its sister restaurant Spice Temple, it is simply stunning. High ceilings, marble columns and a small cosy bar located to the side of the strikingly gorgeous dining room. I feel I’m in Manhattan in the 1950’s (I wish I had worn my vintage dress… oh well, next time).

We are seated at a table for two and I commence the night with my autumn cocktail (a dirty martini - for those of you who don't read my reviews religiously).

I can confidently say that the separate white and red wine menus are near the same size of some of my text books, neither of which I have read. I open the cocktail menu and see a list of “House Rules”, I’m intrigued by all 9 of them. My personal favourite:

“Gentlemen, don’t approach ladies; and if you are so lucky to have one approach you, endear her as you would your mother”.

Advice I wish certain gentleman I have previously known had taken.

An hour quickly passes by. We are informed our table on the dress circle is ready. I take myself, my French martini and my gorgeous friend to our table.

The verdict. An absolute must for any self-respecting socialite.






Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.rockpool.com.au/sydney/bar-and-grill/

Orbit Lounge Bar

Address: Level 47, 264 George St, Sydney

Take me for a spin

After spending an excellent day at the races, where I discover that I am far better at picking a truly fabulous frock than I am at picking a fast horse, three of us decide that we should head out, as there is more fun to be had. I wanted to go somewhere that I hadn't been before so one of my friends suggests Orbit Lounge Bar. We call a cab and head into the city.

Orbit is located on the 47^th floor of Australian Square and is a rotating bar offering stunning views of Sydney. The revolving restaurant / bar concept has always seemed a bit of a gimmick to me but as I had never been there before the views and novelty won me over.

I order “The Vesper” as I love James Bond movies and it’s the drink he orders and names after his beautiful co-star in Casino Royal (I live in hope that one day James will name a drink after me). I take my first sip, and I’m quite surprised, it’s not as strong as I thought it would be.

I try two more cocktails. The first, a dirty vodka martini (which I have decided will be my drink for autumn) it’s not as nice as the one from the Victorian Room but still quite good. My final cocktail is an Espresso Martini. My friend was drinking them and it looked nice, and I’m pleased to say it lived up to my expectations…. nice one Orbit.

After 3 cocktails and 2 complete rotations my friends and I part ways and head home, but only after deciding we should go to the races again next weekend.






Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale 

See for yourself: http://www.summitrestaurant.com.au/

China Doll

Address: 6 Cowper Wharf Rd, Woolloomooloo

I'll have a side order of bikini, thank you

My day didn't start too well. I was late for my morning meeting and I also forgotten my heels and had to explain why I was wearing thongs with my glamourous work dress to the gentleman I was meeting with. Now, some of you ladies may be comfortable wearing thongs and your sneakers around the office, but not I. So when I get a break in between meetings I sneak out and head to the shops to buy a new pair.


As I parade back to the office in my new purchase I discover that they could quite possibly be the most uncomfortable pair of shoes I own (and I own a lot). They do look good though. Lucky I did as when I get back I am reminded about lunch at China Doll.


China Doll is very popular and is the third restaurant along the glamorous Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, we are seated outside near the water with prime views of the city. The cocktail selection here is fun and I decide to try " Big trouble in little China Doll" (vodka, watermelon juice with elderflower syrup and a hint of coriander), while the taste is different it doesn't really leave me with a lasting impression.


The service was very slow and not that you want to come to China Doll for a fast experience, but when your positively parched you want your beverage, sooner rather than later.


As I do enjoy the food at China Doll, I have an excellent lunch. However as we sit there a large boat appears with about 20 young guys and 3 ladies wearing nothing but a florescent yellow g-string (or hired help as one of my companions referred to it), and those of you who know Woolloomooloo warf, know it's a dead end. Obviously these guys where wanting to parade themselves with their lady friends for all to see. 


Now I'm not used to being over looked by my male companions, but I can promise you not a single eye was on me, I couldn't help being in awe either. Maybe I should buy the ladies outfit... but then again yellow isn't my colour.








Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.chinadoll.com.au/

Roseleaf and The Shore

Location: Leith, Edinburgh

A review from Lotus Martini’s International Correspondent, Edinburgh

After making their way around London, my international correspondent heads to Edinburgh.

It's not everyday a Scottish cab driver tips you the wink about a bar serving up wonders in teapots with china cups to match. It's even less likely in Edinburgh, generally placed below Parkes in the world league of cocktail venues.

Over lunch my Valkyries echo the driver's enthusiasm, so as Swanwhite wrings the last drops from the second bottle of wine, the consequences go the full Mussolini. The Shore itself sets the scene with its trademark Bloody Mary, the sherry top and celery notes crowning the usual suspect with perfect balance. Roseleaf has a game on its hands.

Our friendly Irish maitre d' secures we three the last remaining table, a promising hint with the sun still skimming the cobblestones. Sure enough the cheerful mixed crowd huddles round the communal teapots with a expectant Friday air, from bow ties to pleasure professionals. Even the Dolph Lundgrenalike at the next table doesn't look out of place.

We chink our way through two rounds of teapots, opening with a local take on the Moscow Mule, with pear vodka and raspberry juice. But the bar is taken to task by Adam's Love Apple, with apple vodka, fresh apples and pomegranate juice, alluring but with just the right level of late afternoon cut through.

We totter out into the soft Edinburgh light where Swanwhite and I ponder the cherry to crown our day's splendid cake. There is only one choice. A garden at dusk and champagne.

Both bars: 4 stars.

Steel Bar & Grill

Address: 2/60 Carrington Street, Sydney

A civilised evening; wine, dinner and Sex in the City

The other evening a friend and I had planned to check out a few new bars in the city, but as we both had been out the night before we decide that we should have a quieter (and more civilised) evening. So we head out for a few cheeky beverages and dinner.

We make our way to Steel Bar and Grill. Steel is positioned in a surprisingly quiet corner of Sydney’s CBD not far from Wynard station. When you arrive it becomes evident on why the choice of name. Large solid steel and glass doors, stainless steel mesh and tiles, polished concrete walls and sprayed concrete ceiling… I know what your thinking, this place sounds like rubbish (cold, no atmosphere) somehow though it proves to create quite the cozy and relaxed environment.

As we didn’t have a booking, and the place is quite full, we are seated on the bench where we can see into the kitchen. My friend suggests that we sit at the dessert end, I don’t mind… who doesn’t like looking at chocolate.

The menus are handed to us, and I instantly like the place even more as I love the picture of the lady from the 1960’s in her steel bikini (I do wonder what I would look like in that).

As apparently “a change is as a good as a holiday” (though, I’ve never actually believed that… obviously the person who first said those “words of wisdom” must have been on some boring holidays) we decided to leave cocktails and champagne behind and go for a bottle of wine, we finish it over a wonderful dinner.

The bathrooms also deserve a mention, they are all steel and all three basins have a television playing girl movies, (not sure if the men’s play men movies... I didn't check it out so can't confirm). But you need to be careful… I left my friend for too long as I was too busy watching Sex in the City.

Martini rating: 1 – 5 scale

See for yourself: http://www.steelbarandgrill.com/