The much-anticipated Downtown Bar is about to launch at the CBD Italian restaurant, Matteo Downtown.
Aperitivo is at the heart of all great Italian bars. In fact, we’d go as far as to say its a quintessentially Italian ritual. The concept is simple: swing by your favourite watering hole for an evening drink and snack. Best enjoyed before dinner as the sun begins to set, Sydneysiders are set to score a new CBD bar perfect for a post-work aperitivo next month.
Finding its home at the bustling Italian restaurant Matteo Downtown, the cocktail bar in question is Downtown Bar. This new CBD spot is set to deliver a punchy menu of bites and drinks made to be enjoyed while perched at the bar. Set in the heart of the city’s financial district, this watering hole draws inspiration from the vibrant food and drink piazzas of Milan and Venice, bringing a slice of European bar-style dining to Sydney.
The space delivers considered design elements showcasing rich timber and brass details. Expect shares of green and blue to add a dash of colour to bar, along with plush velvet soft furnishing and 36 pieces of art by Daimon Downey lining the walls.
The drinks list at Downtown Bar is first and foremost cocktail focused. Expect a selection of light, delicate spritzes (with notes of elderflower and passionfruit) as well as a dedicated Negroni menu (featuring five different mixes for Negroni connoisseurs to sip their way through). Aside from cocktails, you’ll also find rare Italian spirits and small-batch liqueurs including Italicus (Rosolio di Bergamotto made from native Italian botanicals) and Strega (an old herbal liqueur made from saffron and honey liqueur).
As for eats, co-owner and Executive Chef, Orazio D’Elia has curated a menu of apertivo snacks with a strong Italian flair. Expect everything from smoked trout and finger lime cannoli, octopus ‘nduja panini and traditional Venetian tramezzini (lobster sandwiches). Plus, Matteo Downtown’s full restaurant menu can be ordered while at Downtown Bar (for those who would prefer to wine and dine at the bar).
Downtown Bar at Matteo Downtown is set to open in March 2020, open Mon to Fri from 11:30am-12:00am and Saturday from 5pm-12:00am.