The Cloakroom Bar brings dapper drinks and rooftop resplendence to Brisbane City
It’s no secret that The Cloakroom’s Louis Ialenti and Andrew Byrne are committed to more than simply creating bespoke threads. From the moment you step inside the refined tailor you’re exposed to much more than mere suits on a rack – an invitation to sit down, the offer of a whisky, the time taken to cater to a dapper gent’s every need. Expanding on its offering of experiential pleasure The Cloakroom is turning its bespoke attention to liquid concoctions, with The Cloakroom Bar opening its elusive doors this Friday October 6.
The discovery of The Cloakroom Bar is an experience in itself. No signage will lead you in the right direction – simply follow your instinct and desire for liquid refreshment down Cloakroom Lane, via 215 Elizabeth Street. Past an industrial-looking gate a besuited host will greet you and guide you up a fire escape to an unmarked door, through which the dimly lit bar will be revealed. Draped curtains and black-and-white prints of debonair gents line the walls of the intimate indoor area, which features two sultry rooms – one seating ten to 12 guests, the other just two or three. Outside, the bar’s rooftop vicinity becomes apparent, with the open-air seating area providing a window to the sky and towering buildings above. Candles flicker to illuminate the low marble-topped tables and the back-lit bar casts a warm glow over the green-clad space. Head to The Street Photographer for a closer look.
Louis and The Cloakroom Bar’s co-creator Michael Pattison have spent months working on the venue to ensure that every visit to is unique and memorable, taking cues from its sibling venue Maison Cloakroom in Montreal. Once seated, guests will be presented with a daily changing palate cleanser to sip – usually a light spritz, amaro or vermouth – to eliminate any trace of the outside world that might alter your taste. Depending on the weather, either a hot or cold towel will be offered to refresh you. You won’t find a menu in sight – once settled, a bartender will come over to discuss your preferences and mood to expertly craft a bespoke cocktail to your taste. As much care as taken in The Cloakroom’s tailor-made suits is taken in the creation of each beverage – high-end spirits line the back bar, house-made tinctures will rouse the tastebuds, and giant purified blocks of ice are hand chiselled, sawed, chipped and cut by staff to suit each glass. Dry snacks to complement the drinks will be coming soon, as well as catering for group bookings.
The Cloakroom Bar opens on Friday October 6 at 5:00 pm. If you’re ready to discover your personal flavour profile, head to our Stumble Guide for opening hours and contact details.
The Stumble Guide is our comprehensive Brisbane dining guide with more than 2400 places to eat, drink, shop and play.
