A maturing hospitality landscape
The Collingwood craft cocktail scene operates with a distinct sense of purpose. Gone are the days when sophisticated drinking required a trip to the central business district. Today, this inner-northern suburb offers a compelling array of venues, each bringing a unique philosophy to the art of the mixed drink.
Hospitality professionals are choosing the area to experiment with atmosphere, design, and technique. The result is a neighbourhood filled with ambitious bars that cater to every mood.
Minimalist mastery at Above Board
At Above Board, the traditional bar setup disappears entirely. Bartender Hayden Lambert commands an intimate American walnut island that feels more like a private dinner party than a commercial venue. Patrons will not find a luminous back bar displaying familiar brand names.
Instead, spirits are stored discreetly in drawers, allowing the focus to remain purely on the technique and the resulting beverage. Hayden Lambert operates much like a meticulous blackjack dealer, guiding guests through a carefully curated list of 25 precise concoctions.
Signature creations such as the Gentlemen Caller mix rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and gran classico into a rich, smoky profile. The austere, Scandinavian-inspired design ensures absolutely no distraction from the glass in front of you.
Fine dining flair and casual charm
Along Smith Street, Commis provides an effortlessly affable environment. The venue groups its playful drinks list by emotion and expression rather than traditional spirit categories.
Bartenders at Commis happily match concoctions to individual palates, shaking up perfectly balanced sours in a space that feels like a welcoming home. They prioritise familiar, jovial service over rigid bartending rules.
Rooftop refinement
Adding height to the local landscape, Slowpoke Lounge and Lookout introduces a glamorous yet whimsical approach. Founders Bradley Wynne, Gabe Neri, and Dustin Hefford designed the venue to function as a comfortable third place for the community. The rooftop treats guests to sweeping views of the city skyline, framed by plush leather lounges and marble tabletops.
A nostalgic service station sign marks the entrance, setting a playful tone before guests experience the specialty menu curated by Harry Costello. Whether sipping a complex seasonal creation or a refreshing spritz, the venue balances stylish elevation with genuine warmth.
The Collingwood craft cocktail scene continues to evolve with confidence. For local drink enthusiasts, the suburb provides an impressive array of considered, high-quality pours.
