For most people, it’s not really been the summer we planned. After months of lockdown in 2021, hospitality venues in Sydney and Melbourne geared up for strong trade across December, only to be stung with staff shortages, staff in isolation and canceled bookings and anxiety about all of this! The situation has forced many of our favourites to temporarily shut, or work overtime. Much to our dismay, even dancing was canceled.
You can help by supporting your local restaurants and bars, where you feel safe to do so. If you are heading out – be especially kind and patient. Hospo workers are doing it tough, so come with empathy.
Here’s a list of some of the bars and restaurants we really enjoy – perfect for occasions that call for both non alc and alcohol.
Melbourne
Manze – Modern Mauritian food in North Melbourne paired with a thoughtful drinks menu. Nagesh feeds the community with lots of heart.
Hope St Radio – Come for Ellie’s pasta (you must have the focaccia as well). Enjoy the courtyard with lots of space while you listen to musica from local DJs as it’s broadcast
Supernormal – Mcconnel institution in the CBD – sit at the bar and enjoy a lobster roll after wandering through the not-as-busy-as-usual city streets.
Tramway Hotel – Drop in for a beer and burger, after a saunder through North Fitzroy (or after a drink at Public)
Public Wine Shop – Excellent selection of all organic drinks with incredible small plates – perfect for date night. Everything is available to take home as well.
The Alderman – Your East Brunswick local, sit outside and be COVID safe in the leafy courtyard. An original Melbourne institution.
Morning Market – Stock up on snacks and grocery items for a special picnic, or perfect for gift ideas.
Falco – Satisfy your bread cravings with the real thing when in Collingwood. Highly recommend the Tuna Melt!
Sydney
Monopole – Bougie snacks and drinks at the bar, or a proper CBD fat cat lunch
P&V Paddington – Stock up on great wine, beer, spirits and non alc in a no-fuss eastern suburbs drink haven
Fabbrica – Fuel your pasta desires by taking home from here. You know you’ll love it. Also has a sit-in wine bar, and a carefully curated deli by the experts.
Where’s Nick Wine Bar – an unpretentious night out in Marrickville with truly excellent wine, cocktails, non-alc options and well as food
While we love meeting you directly, rather than buying from our website, we think you should support these businesses. Shop online through these independent retailers: