From the crew behind Carbon and Sonora, meet Bondi’s new Cuban cocktail bar La Palma.

For one of Sydney’s most popular beachside spots, Bondi has yet to welcome a Caribbean-focused bar to the neighbourhood. That is, until this latest opening from the Milpa Collective Group (responsible for the likes of Sonora Potts Point, Bondi’s Carbon and Taqiza).

The new bar in question is La Palma, a colourful new cocktail bar finding its home inside the vibrant Boheme complex on Bondi’s Hall Street. La Palma is the latest venue for the group, joining forces with Joaquin Saez (Cho Cho San, The Apollo) to bring this new watering hole to life. Taking inspiration from the prohibition-era cocktail bars dotted around Cuba, this new venue hopes to bring a slice of Havana-cool to the streets of Bondi.

But don’t expect your typical dive-bar experience at La Palma. In fact, the team has called on interiors experts Guru Projects (responsible for the fit-outs at Reign in the QVB, Alexandria’s Went To See The Gypsy and Nel) to create an elevated tiki bar meets luxe Cuban hotel. Inside, you’ll find tasteful rattan seating, timber-clad interiors, marble bar tops and plenty of leafy palms to add a tropical touch to the space. And with plenty of relaxed alfresco seating, this is set to be the perfect spot to kick back for a post-work tipple.

Unlike the group’s previous venues, La Palma is focused on celebrating the best of Caribbean flavours. The menu, curated by husband and wife duo Maryann Yong and Mario Malvaez offers everything from vibrant snacks and starters to more substantial bites. Start with lighter plates of coconut ceviche served with kingfish and the must-try Anticuchos (charcoal-grilled skewers served with salsa criolla).

If you’re in the mood for a feast, you can’t go past La Palma’s Cuban Sandwich (loaded with roasted pork belly, sweet potato, salsa criolla and yellow chilli) or the mouthwatering Jamaican Jerk Chicken.

This strong Cuban influence continues behind the bar, with a curated cocktail list created by Raphael Redant (Sonora, Stitch, Gilt Lounge) of just 15 specialty drinks. From the classic Mojitos and Piña Coladas to original cocktails like the Rice Bubble (mixed with vodka infused rice bubble milk, pandan, macadamia liqueur and citrus), expect a vibrant dose of flavour with every sip.

Find La Palma at The Hub of the Boheme, 75-79 Hall Street Bondi. Open Mon to Fri 5pm-12am, Sat 12pm-12am and Sun 12pm-10pm. Find out more here. 

In the mood for a flavourful dining experience? Check out our guide to Sydney’s best Mexican restaurants.