Holes in the walls

Melbourne has long held the title for the ‘hole in the wall’ capital of Australia. Nowhere else can compete with the creative atmosphere that is the laneways and other innovative spaces around the city. But there is a rising movement in Sydney gaining momentum and hanging on the coat tails of its bigger more experienced southern sister.

There are plenty of quirky, unique ‘drinking hole’ pockets all around Sydney but the real leader is Darlinghurst. Popping up like freesias in the spring, bars and small eateries are opening all over the place. Here are some of the many places to tick of your Sydney ‘hole in the wall’ list:

• Darlie Laundromatic: It’s new to the scene but this creatively conceptualised establishment serves cordial and hotdogs along with Tsing Tao beer. Set in a disused Laundromat, its unique interior features include a washing machine tap, fittings and copper water popes leading all around the walls covered in art. Pay this place a visit and enjoy the friendly atmosphere, delicious cocktails and communal table.

• Pocket Bar: Pancakes and good wine. What more could you want? This place is so popular there are times when you have to jostle to get a table. It’s understandable. The big armchairs allow you to sink back with friends, enjoy a range of sweet and savoury crepes and sip on some of the most enjoyable vino around.

• The Commons Local Eating House: The Scandinavian feel behind this place cannot be missed. Small vases with white daisies adorning each simple yet stylish table screams a Swedish touch. The wholesome and tasty food with a wine list to match makes it even better. If you’re after ‘cozy’, descend the stairs to the sandstone ‘den’ where, in real comfort and charm, you could be anywhere in the world.

If you’re going to get around to all these hot spots why not treat yourself to a hotel room close by? Instead of getting a cab home, make a booking. It’s a tempting enough area to justify the splurge on a hotel. Darlinghurst by day will be just an enchanting with a myriad of galleries and shops to poke your head in and out of. Otherwise, to keep it ‘local’, you’ve got Surry Hills hotel options down the road too.

Cambridge Hotel is a boutique budget hotel Located in Darlinghurst, with stylish interiors and modern facilities. Featuring Café 212 and the most popular cabaret dinner show in Sydney, this hotel redefines classy chic and cheap accommodations.

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