Bar Local Drop

Overview

No stranger to novel hospo concepts, Collingwood welcomes Bar Local Drop to the neighbourhood, serving everything from limited and rare drops to barbecue spatchcock, fresh pasta specials, and an impressive selection of over 500 bottles to stock your home cellar. 

The bar was founded by Jagdev Singh and his wife, Emily Prunty, the founders of The Local Drop, a respected wine business covering retail, events, and bespoke cellars. They chose Collingwood, specifically the design-forward space at 116 Rokeby Street, curated by Studio Y and recognised by the Australian Institute of Architects, to set up their bricks-and-mortar offering.

While there is a deep and serious focus on all things wine, Bar Local Drop is also prioritising food. Head Chef Damon McIvor (of Wally's and Waxflower) brings more than 15-years' worth of industry experience to the kitchen. His Euro-leaning menu champions local growers, including Somerset Farm, Natoora and Day's Walk Farm. 

Seasonally changing menus may include tapioca fritti with anchovies, cured swordfish with pickled mussels, smoked lamb tartare with hash browns, and Hapuka with fennel and beurre blanc. Pop in midweek to catch the lunchtime specials that include barbecue spatch cock (served half or whole) with fries and chicken jus, or rotating pasta dishes for just $20.   

The star of the show, the wine, is left in the ultra-experienced hands of Pierrick Gorrichon, who not only served as the Sommelier at Gimlet but also worked at Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. Check out The Black Book, the bar's handwritten reserve list showcasing limited and rare wines. Here's the kicker: once a bottle is gone, it's simply crossed off the page, so don't snooze on trying these special drops.  

Images: Supplied.