32 St Pauls Street,
Randwick
(02) 9398 6694
BAR SIDE
This bar’s biggest inspiration is Hunter S. Thompson – gonzo journalist and wild man extraordinaire.
His influence can be found everywhere in the joint, from the retro-recycled décor to the cocktail menu. While he’s not going to be dropping by any time soon, this café by day/restaurant and bar by night has accumulated a loyal following.
The night trade brings in groups of friends, families, first dates and movie-goers; while daytime patrons include mums and bubs, suits on their lunch break, retirees, students and surfers fresh from the water.
Chef Tim Dengate is a big believer in respecting your produce, treating and cooking it well. You can’t go past the unparalleled tenderness of the salt and pepper squid, which is a favourite of the locals. Tiramisu lovers will want to try the “beeramisu” – made with oatmeal stout. We also recommend dropping into Bat Country for breakfast and lunch as well; these guys have you covered for great food at all hours of the day.
Bat Country has a cocktail list that a talented team of bartenders obviously had fun creating. All influenced by the creativity and adventure of Hunter S. Thompson, options to try include a San Juan Slipper with house-infused vanilla vodka, passionfruit, apple and agave. The wine list satisfies all budgets and tastes, with a selection of boutique bottles, and most are available by the glass. There are two beers on tap, both by local brewery Young Henry’s of Newtown: the Real Ale and the Natural Lager. The fridge is also packed with both local and international beers and ciders.
Fun Fact
Hunter S. Thompson wrote for Rolling Stone magazine in the ‘60s and ‘70s about his time spent with the Hells Angels, and that’s why the bathroom walls are plastered with old RS pages.
