99 Cocktails of everything
‘Classic’ is a term bandied about far too often for our liking. When used to describe Fiztroy’s The Black Pearl, however, there couldn’t be a snugger fit. This modern classic has been busting out damn tasty libations since Natasha Conte opened the joint in 2002.
Over the past decade this neighbourhood cocktail bar has established itself as haven of good times, hazy memories and some of the country’s best bartenders. In fact, no fewer the three previous Australian Bartender of the Year title holders have come up through the ranks at this bar.
When ordering a drink I’ll tell you now that you’ll have no problems finding the right tipple. They have a handy little selection of craft brews in the fridge like the local Hawthorne Pale Ale or Western Australia’s award winning Feral White Ale and a rotating brew on tap. There’s a succinct list of wine list of local and imported drops (three whites, three reds and two sparklings), but of course you’re here for a cocktail. The cocktail list is regularly updated and features creations by the bar team and a few obscure (but definitely delicious) classic mixes.
You’ll want to try the fruity Pete The Ripper – a mix of Ketel One vodka, plum wine, strawberries, coconut cream, with a hint of balsamic – or re-discover a forgotten classic cocktail like the Delicious Sour – apple brandy, peach liqueur, citrus and soda. Can’t find what you want on the list? Well these guys have an encylopedic knowledge so test them out!
So although The Pearl isn’t trending on Twitter (they have no website, Facebook page, Twitter account – nada) or likely being featured in the latest street press, this is one bar that should be top of your list to visit or re-visit whatever the case may be. They’re open seven days and late – far too late as far as your liver is concerned.
304 Brunswick Street, Fitzroy
(03) 9417 0455
Hours:
7 days, 5pm till 1am
Fitzroy’s The Black Pearl know their business when it comes to mixing drinks. And it’s just as well because there’re few joints we would trust to pull off a zany number like this. So head to the Pearl, it’s fruity, it’s creamy, it’s fun and the drink isn’t bad either.
Pete the Ripper
50ml Ketel One
45ml Coconut Cream
10ml Xuxu Strawberry Liqueur
10ml Choya Herb Umeshu
1/2 Bsp Balsamic Vinegar
Method: Add all ingredients into a shaker shake briskly with ice and fine strain into a tea cup. Garnish with a strawberry swizzle stick.
Created by the team at the Black Pearl.