Sydney’s newest hidden bar has been discovered and it may have just reignited Woolloomooloo’s small-bar scene. Escape down the rabbit hole of Peekaboo Bar and let your ears be caressed by smooth tunes and your eyes relax in to the dim, sensual lighting.
Images of Betty Boop, Alfred Hitchcock, Audrey Hepburn and other pop culture icons add a splash of vibrant colour to the bare-brick walls and naked wooden palings of ‘The Boo.’ Imagine if James Dean or Marilyn Monroe were to shout you a cocktail or send a wink your way, this 1950s New York styled hideaway would be the setting.
Humble, super friendly owner Erykah Saba repurposed this site from junk and rubble. The wooden columns, exposed brick walls and bare light bulbs are evidence of a by-gone era (and a lot of hard work). Saba has created an acoustically perfect space for small groups or couples who like their music soulful, food delectable and drinks refreshing.
The cocktail list is wide-ranging and adventurous. The Cheshire with gin and Aperol topped with a mint and grapefruit granita is edgy with a subtle lingering aftertaste of honey water. The Boops Ride featuring Hennessy, Cointreau, lemon juice and watermelon served martini style is, like it’s namesake, sweet yet provocative.
Peekaboo’s sophisticated beer list offers quality brew for all palates. The White Rabbit Dark Ale is rich and flavoursome but not too heavy while Murray’s Whale Ale is a definite crowd pleaser. The wine list is similarly satisfying, including the delightful Castelli Estate Cab Sav that really accentuates the warmth of The Boo.
Fresh figs topped with blue cheese and a drizzle of honey goes very well with the Cheshire cocktail. The prosciutto-wrapped green peppers stuffed with goats cheese have just the right amount of kick to make you crave any drink that’s cold and wet. Lucky they have plenty.
As Saba puts it “parties in the 1950’s really happened out of no where and that’s what is happening down here given the community vibe and neighbourly feel.” The staff, who are all great mates, make you feel like one of the crew with inspired drink suggestions, great general banter and their resident performers The Dark Horse comprising of the soulstress Muma Megs, beats-genius DJ Klevaone and world-renowned Matt Ottignon on the Sax. It’s a winning alliance.
If you feel like tasty cocktails, snacks and tunes that get you swinging from the ceiling then The Boo should be at the top of your To Do List.
Peekaboo Bar
120 Bourke Street, Woolloomooloo.
Tuesday – Thursday 4:00pm – 10:00pm
Friday – Saturday 4:00pm – 12:00am.