Webster’s Bar Takes Over The Old Zanzibar Site In Newtown
A visit to Webster’s Bar in Newtown (formerly Zanzibar) is like taking a journey through time. Situated at the historic site of The New Town Store it was first established by John and Eliza Webster. It was from here that the suburb of Newtown first took its name.
Named after it’s original occupants Webster’s Bar is spread across three, expansive levels and is like a vertical timeline. It all begins with an industrial steampunk ground level, moving to a 1920s prohibition style bourbon bar and grill. Then, on the top level, you’ll find a 1950s style Australian, backyard rooftop bar. It’s complete with astro turf, birdcages and plastic, kitsch flamingos.
On the drinks front, the entire venue has a heavy bourbon focus and a long list of whiskies. If you’re looking for a nice quiet place to sit back and enjoy a glass of wine you can’t go past the middle 1920s style bar. It’s beautifully designed with low lighting, dark panelling, small candles on every table and plenty of secluded corners. The wine list mainly boasts Hunter Valley wines and we suggest getting stuck into a hearty Piggs Peake 2015 Tempranillo.
There are also six signature cocktails to choose from, the highlight of which is definitely the Jam & Smoke, made with Laphroaig Select Cask, Grand Marnier, fresh lemon juice and marmalade jam.
The arched windows and stained glass walls are perfect for people-watching while you enjoy a Louisiana fried buttermilk chicken slider or a serve of pulled chicken and sun-dried tomato bruschetta.
The downstairs bar has a great atmosphere, with music that wouldn’t be out of place at one of Gatsby’s soirees and a crowd that would fit in at a fifty-per-cent-off Urban Outfitters sale. The exposed brick is tastefully decorated with beautiful black and white pictures of the buildings that have occupied the same piece of Newtown real estate through the ages. Webster’s Bar is truly a testament to the history of King St and will no doubt soon become another staple in the Newtown narrative.
Webster’s Bar
323 King St, Newtown
02 9519 1511
http://webstersbar.com.au/