Spice Alley
Chippendale · Pan-Asian hawker-style (Singaporean, Thai, Malaysian, Cantonese, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Southeast Asian)
Crack the bubbles and get ready to relive the roaring 20s at this flamboyant new bar, The Cat's Meow.
With Sydney's lockout laws almost entirely scrapped across the city, Sydney is set to reawaken from its slumber in the coming months. With venues now keeping their doors open into the early hours of the morning, finding new spots to drink and dine is at the top of everyone's agenda. And if you're looking for a roaring good time, this next bar is just the place to add to your list. Meet The Cat's Meow, the latest addition to Darlinghurst's thriving bar scene. Set at 52 Oxford Street, this luxe new venue brings a slice of the sophistication and extravagance to contemporary Sydneysiders. Expect lavish interiors courtesy of specialist design consultancy Henderson & Co., responsible for the dark and moody interiors creating a mysterious atmosphere that floods the entire space. From ambient lighting to art deco mirror cladding and opulent facades, prepare to step into another world at The Cat's Meow.
At the helm of the venue is Henri Azzi, the restauranter behind Embers Mezze Bar (the eatery that previously occupied this Oxford Street space). After a better part of a decade running Embers, Henri decided it was time to shake things up and try something new, which is where the idea for The Cat's Meow was born. The venue begins in the main bar, or The Vault as its more commonly know, a lofty space filled with soft velvets, brass touches and marble surfaces at every turn. Grab a cocktail at the bar and settle into this lively space brimming with character and charm. For something a bit more intimate, step into The Butcher's Library, delivering prohibition-style interiors akin to something you'd find in the 1920s underworld. Lined by glass cabinets filled with cellared wine and aging meat, take a seat at this marble-topped table to share a well-made drink with that someone special. 
Love bubbles? Head straight to The Cat's Meow's dedicated Champagne Room, an intimate parlour of decadence and top-notch drinks. From plush velvet booths to robe drapery and even a cabinet of champagne on display, feel oh-so-fancy as you sip a crystal flute of bubbles. Want to amp up your experience? Secure a VIP waitress to lose yourself in a night of caviar, oysters and flowing champagne. The best bit? The venue is planning to install phone lockers so you won't be tempted to check your messages while grabbing a drink. As for eats, The Cat's Meow offers a gourmet menu of upscale bar snacks. Expect everything from truffle Croque monsieur to fresh oysters, cheese and charcuterie and so much more. Aside from wines and bubbles, you'll also find a creative list of signature cocktails, spirits and more behind the bar. And it wouldn't be a true Gastby-inspired venue without some glittering entertainment. Experience everything Sydney's best DJs to dancers, saxophone players, magicians and more, ready to keep you partying all night long. Plus, the venue will be throwing monthly roaring parties (in true Gatsby fashion) to keep Sydneysiders dancing until the early hours of the morning. Find The Cat's Meow at 52 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst. Open Tues to Sun 5pm to 12am. 
