As you do when you’re an out-of-towner in Melbourne casually walking along a dark narrow lane at night we stumbled into something significant. To escape the frantic pace of federation square after the new year of 2008 clicked over we wandered into ‘the opium den’. Little known to us it had been voted New Bar of the Year 2006 and Australia’s Bar of the Year 2007! The Golden Monkey certainly lives up to the title with my girl and I enjoying ourselves immensely.
Upon entry down the winding stairs we were greeted by the aroma of incense and sounds of a live band playing classic/current funk. The bar to the left lit of ambient red served colourful cocktails to finely dressed masqueraders. To the rear we admired duluxe lounge seating encompassed in a maze of interwoven wooden dividers. With drinks in hand we sat engulfed by boutique leather comfort. Platters of asian tapas and cucumber were served diligently throughout the night and when the live band Tavares had finished their set they began mingling with mysterious masked patrons.
With the cocktails, sparkling, tapas, the aromatic relaxing atmosphere of this unique lounge bar certainly made our entry into the new year most memorable. Without fail I will back with my significant other to reminisce.
The Golden Monkey website is incredible by actually giving you a feel for the lounge bar before arriving. Entry to the bar is from High St at the rear of 389 Lonsdale St, Melbourne. Phone: +613 9602 2055 Fax: +613 9642 3866 or Email:info@goldenmonkey.com.au Be sure to check out the drinks and food listings to see for yourself why they keep on achieving renowned success.
Plus: Atmosphere, extravagant drinks list
Minus:A little expensive
Final word: Pull the tables dim the lights serve tapas and fill with chilled beats and cocktails - I’m hooked.
Service:
Food:
Atmos:
WYD: Overall:By: johnnymestizo on Friday, January 04, 2008 (all johnnymestizo's reviews)
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