Overview
Thornbury has scored itself a new locals' haunt which, thankfully, doesn't live up to its name. In fact, Nasty's, the new kid on High Street, is nice as pie. It's the first venture from hospitality veteran Nick Matheson, who found himself choosing the northside suburb for his long-planned watering hole after a raft of friends moved in nearby.
Cheerfully low-key with a warm, homespun vibe, Nasty's has been dubbed so in a nod to Matheson's own ironic nickname. Step inside and you'll discover a space that forgoes trendy trimmings for a more personalised haul of upcycled treasures, which are fairly representative of its owner's style. Think knick knacks, potted plants and a fun mix of seating that includes deep Chesterfields and revamped car seats. A lively green and orange mural is splashed along one brick wall, and, through the back room, you'll spy an old-school ironing board enjoying a new life as a table.
As with all good neighbourhood haunts, there are cosy corners and nooks aplenty, including a secluded beer garden out back. Though, in a joint like this, you're just as likely to find yourself hanging with new mates in the front bar.
Kate Shanasy.
The drinks list sticks with the same sweet-and-simple philosophy as the fit-out. Headed up by a six-strong rotation of local tap brews, which currently includes Abbotsford brewery Moon Dog, the drinks menu also features a tight lineup of spirits, a handful of ciders and wines. There's no formal cocktail list, but if you have a chat to Matheson, he'll happily whip you up something, and a food offering is en route soon.
Find Nasty's at 806 High St, Thornbury. It's open from Monday–Friday 4pm–1am and Saturday–Sunday midday–1am.
Images: Kate Shanasy.