Address: Q Theatre Bar, Queen Street
Rating:
First drinks: were a high-quality round of red wine (a lovely local cabernet sauvignon), and craft beers. They have an extensive drinks list, and are happy to make up any cocktail you please if you ask nicely. The service was delightful, efficient, and she made sure we had plenty of water to go with our drinks and snacks.
The vibe is: a little bit arty and sophisticated (it is attached to the wonderful Q Theatre, after all) but also very welcoming to everyone, whether you're attending a show or not. The space is divided for multiple purposes - low-slung leather couches and coffee tables, high bar stools around leaners and tables near the bar, and then a casual sit-down restaurant area. They're all well lit and nicely designed - particularly the recessed wall light features. They've managed to combine the convenience and efficiency of a foyer area with the appeal of a cosier bar.
It smells of: Nothing much actually, except perhaps a waft of coffee if you're in the restaurant area.
On the stereo: Some easygoing funk and soul tunes, perfectly pitched for a post-show crowd, and at a good volume for conversation.
Room for improvement: The bar can get pretty slammed in the 10 minutes before a show starts, and conversely it can feel a little vibe-less when there isn't a show on, but all in all they know what they're doing.
The perfect spot for: Meetings, catch-ups, pre or post-movie/show celebrations. It's generally easy to get a table, and it's open late on week nights (such a rarity in the city).
Most redeeming feature: The bathrooms - they may be downstairs, but they're stylish and plentiful (there's never a queue).
- TimeOut