· By Marcus Child
The Piccolo Bar
If you're in Sydney and haven't wandered down to Potts Point lately, you're missing out on one of the city's most vibrant, unapologetically hip neighborhoods. It's a magnet for those in the know, with its small bars lining the streets like well-kept secrets waiting to be uncovered. And at the beating heart of it all is Piccolo Bar, a place that oozes old-school charm while serving up some of the most intriguing sips you'll find anywhere.
Now, if you don't know David Spanton, it's time you got acquainted. This guy is basically the godfather of Australia’s bar scene—yeah, the one who's been turning the Aussie drinks world on its head for over two decades. He's the brains behind Bartender Magazine, the bible for anyone who knows their highball from their Hurricane. David's not just slinging words either. This man has shaped the way Aussies drink, think, and talk about bars, and his influence is splashed across the scene like a double shot of espresso in your Negroni.
Spanton's achievements don’t just stop at penning glossy pages. He’s the guy who founded the Australian Bar Awards, a.k.a. the Oscars of booze, where the who’s who of the industry gather to give each other a well-deserved pat on the back. And if that wasn't enough, he also set up Sydney Bar Week, an event that draws industry pros and cocktail aficionados from across the globe. We're talking masterclasses, tastings, parties—it's basically the Met Gala for mixologists.
Now, let’s swing back to Piccolo Bar, shall we? This joint isn’t just riding on the coattails of Spanton’s legacy; it's making its own mark with an aperitivo menu that’s pure fire. If you think you know what an aperitivo is, Piccolo Bar is ready to shake that up—pun fully intended. Whether you’re into booze or not, they’ve got something to tickle your fancy. And that brings us to the Sammy Piquant—a non-alcoholic aperitivo that’s basically a jetsetter in a glass.
Imagine sipping on something that makes you feel like you’re lounging on the Amalfi Coast, but without the fuzzy head the next day. The Sammy Piquant is a flavor bomb, with layers of citrus, spice, and that ever-elusive umami that makes you sit back and say, “Damn, that’s good.” It’s bold, it’s brash, and it’s everything you want in a drink when you're looking to have a good time without the booze. Perfect for a night out in Potts Point when you want to keep your wits about you, but still feel like you're indulging.
Potts Point is gearing up for spring, and there’s no better time to find yourself here. The small bars are buzzing, each one with its own unique spin on what makes Sydney's nightlife scene tick. Whether you're a cocktail connoisseur or just someone looking for a place that feels like home, this is where you want to be. The neighborhood is packed with energy, and Piccolo Bar stands out as a beacon for those who appreciate a great drink and an even better vibe.
So, grab your crew or roll solo, and make your way to Piccolo Bar. You'll find yourself among the cool, the curious, and the downright thirsty, all drawn to the promise of something a little different, a little daring, and absolutely unforgettable.