Craving a night that breaks the mould?
Newtown, Sydney’s vibrant hub of artistic expression, has unveiled a captivating new addition to its scene: Pleasure Club. Stepping beyond the unassuming entrance, a descent down the stairs leads you into a world unlike any other. Swirling hues of purple envelop the space, plush booths beckon for intimate gatherings, and a palpable anticipation of the unexpected hangs in the air.
Pleasure Club transcends the boundaries of a typical bar, offering a multi-sensory experience that caters to the curious and the adventurous. Live music forms the lifeblood of the venue, pulsating through the evenings with a diverse range of performances. From intimate acoustic sets by local singer-songwriters to full-fledged rock and neo-soul explosions, each night promises a unique encounter curated by the venue’s entertainment manager, Sabrina Medcalf. Her focus lies in fostering the local artistic community, through surprise sets, roaming performers, and theatrical flourishes that blur the lines between audience and spectacle. Witness captivating solo acts deconstruct their albums on acoustic guitars, be swept away by the energy of a psychedelic rock band, or immerse yourself in the soulful melodies of neo-soul performances. The element of surprise is ever-present, with secret shows and pop-up performances adding an extra layer of intrigue to the experience.
But the magic extends far beyond the captivating soundscape. Leading the liquid alchemy at Pleasure Club is the renowned duo of Sam Kirk and Matt Whiley. Their bespoke creations are more than just cocktails; they’re chapters in an ongoing narrative titled “A Pleasure Club Story.” The inaugural chapter, “Nostalgia Machine,” takes you on a whimsical journey through childhood memories. Playful concoctions like “Passion Pop” and “Mr Whippy” reimagine familiar flavours with a modern twist, evoking a sense of playful nostalgia with every sip. Each meticulously crafted cocktail is a testament to the duo’s dedication to pushing boundaries and utilising unconventional methods to create truly unique sensory experiences.
Pleasure Club caters to the late-night revellers as well. As the clock strikes eleven, “Dark Service” kicks in, marking a shift in gears. This isn’t your average bar closing down; it’s a chance for Kirk and his team to truly experiment, offering innovative and unexpected cocktails that push the boundaries of flavour and technique. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or simply curious to explore uncharted territories, Dark Service promises an unforgettable journey for your taste buds.
While the drinks undoubtedly take centre stage, the food offering shouldn’t be overlooked. Executive chef James MacDonald has curated a concise yet satisfying menu of gourmet hot dogs, the perfect answer to late-night cravings. Choose from classic franks or plant-based options, all elevated with high-quality ingredients and creative toppings including gourmet relish and crispy onions.
Pleasure Club isn’t just a place to go; it’s a feeling. It’s the thrill of the unexpected, the comfort of the familiar reimagined, and the energy of live music that ignites the soul. It’s a space where artistic expression thrives, boundaries are pushed, and the night unfolds in a tapestry of captivating performances, innovative cocktails, and delectable bites. Opening its doors at 4 pm and staying open until the early hours, 4 am, to be precise, prepare yourselves to step into the Pleasure Club and discover a world where anything can happen.
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