Arcadia Liquors

Arcadia Liquor is somewhere between a western saloon and a decaying industrial space. ‘Small bar’ might be a bit of a misnomer, given that it’s not terribly small compared to other joints down this way (which means you’re more likely to get a seat).

The drinks list seems to focus on local drops, with an occasional hat tip to a Spanish or Italian region, and a few German beers to round it out. The house cider, Escanciador, comes by way of Spain and is more sparkling and slightly acidic than your usual. As the bar’s name suggests, there’s more drinking than dining happening here. But you can grab a toasted sandwich as something for your drinks to chase.Behind the bar there’s a hoard of curios among the requisite bottles, adding more of a seventies kitsch factor.

A courtyard extends to the back and is partly sheltered against the sky, but lush with greenery. Being able to step off busy Cope Street and into a lush green courtyard brings something truly unique to the venue. You get protection from the rain (or UV rays), without getting the feeling of being indoors or closed in. Smokers will be happy to know you can smoke in the courtyard too, no need to leave the venue for a cigarette.

With intentions of featuring live music in the future, Arcadia has all the sensibilities of a neighbourhood bar made for squandering a few spare hours.