Sexy, suave and oozing charisma. No, it’s not your new boyfriend. It’s your new date night spot. Balmain’s new speakeasy bar, Soho in Balmain is giving pub-goers a sultry new scene for a tipple or few.
Don’t let the cute cottage exterior fool you, there’s nothing innocent about this place. As the name suggests, there’s definitely a New York vibe going on, but it’s no 2015. It’s all about the roaring 20’s. With a Moroccan twist. It’s dark but full of ambience. To top it all off, you’ll be crooned with live contemporary jazz music at select nights of the week.
The married duo behind Balmain’s cool new digs is interior stylist Ronite Hammond, and Justin Boyd who comes from a background in IT. It may be their first venture, but they have a clear vision and a great team putting their small bar on the map.
You don’t need to bring a date here, but it’s best you bring someone because the menu is meant for sharing. Soho in Balmain is all about Mediterranean inspired tapas and cocktails (or wine – they have a great wine list). Must-try dishes include the Portuguese mussels and the slow cooked beef cheek served with sherry and cauliflower crumb.
On second thoughts, don’t bring anyone– you’ll wish you didn’t have to share.
Soho in Balmain
358 Darling Street, Balmain NSW 2041
Open Tuesday to Friday, 5pm until late; Saturday and Sunday, 12pm until late
official website