Bartenders are known for their drink making skills and their banter. At Bar Americano, the stakes are lifted just a little as there is only one bartender and the room is only big enough to fit in 10 people, standing up. And even that would be a squeeze. If the drinks or the banter are bad, things are going to get awkward. Lucky for Bar Americano — from Matt Bax (DerRaum, Bar Economico) — their bartenders can handle the pressure.

Tucked down the end of Presgrave Place, which is found off a laneway off Little Collins — stick with us — you'll find this old-world hole in the wall. An homage to Harry's Bar in Venice, Bar Americano's bartenders don white lab coats and pay serious attention to their drinks. If you are a cocktail connoisseur, or not, you are likely to have heard of some of the classics that Bar Americano serve up. Either way, these may just be some of the best cocktails you'll find in this fair city. Off a short, ever-changing list — the place is too small to stock every ingredient at once — you might sip a Mint Julep ($23), a Negroni ($19) or perhaps a Sherry Cobbler ($21).

If cocktails aren't really your thing, gin and tonic ($12) is served in crystal glasses with hand-cut ice and changing vino is available by the glass ($10).

They cure your morning ails as well, serving up coffee and a selection of on-the-run breakfast items. If you come in the morning or the evening, don't linger too long; you'll spoil others' chances of enjoying the experience. Come, sip a drink, have a laugh and continue your journey, just that little happier.