Mr Wow’s Emporium

The Mr Tom Tran Group, which brought us the likes of Lily Blacks, Double Happiness and New Gold Mountain, is also behind Mr Wow’s Emporium.

The catch phrase is “purveyors of fine drinks, good times and bocce”, which sums up the experience at this World Class drinking venue pretty well.

The cocktail list is to the point, and worth the climb up the stairs, with a stellar freshly squeezed apple juice served up with Ketel One vodka. The Gypsy, Tramps and Thieves is another standout, made with Bulleit Bourban, beetroot and mint.

Don’t be afraid for order off the menu either, with World Class bartender Chris Hysted behind the bar these guys have the skills and means to whip you up almost anything.

The beer and wine offering is on the smaller side, but the concise list seems to have been carefully chosen. Order a Vietnamese Bia Hanoi beer or a bottle of Laurent Perrier if the occasion calls for it. Air popped popcorn with a surprising range of salts (from Mexican to chicken) will keep hunger at bay.

For something more substantial, head out back to the courtyard, where the Voodoo Jerk Truck can be found serving up Caribbean favourites until 10pm from Tuesday to Friday.

Back inside, the second floor space manages to strike a balance between the relaxed atmosphere of a Northside hangout and the class of a cocktail bar. Dark timber communal tables are dotted with candles, while pool tables and a bocce pitch keep things on the fun side. Large open windows facing onto Smith Street make it the perfect spot for a drink or two in the summer sun.