Glamp Bar

Overview

The first thing you notice when you walk up the flight of stairs from first floor venue-sibling Polepole, is a huge tent-type structure, which dominates half the venue. Mind you, it isn't cloying or claustrophobic — and it certainly isn't a detraction to the overall aesthetic — because when your name is Glamp, you’re kinda expected to give some kind of nod to the camping vibe.

The tent is one of the possible spots to sit and imbibe, with a sightly snugger nook at the other end. If you steer towards the tent, you’ll find it full of bright cushions and mix of wood and wire furniture, all plopped on a covering of equally as colourful carpet. The seating is low and functional, and is just the right level of relaxed for an after-work drink or two.

Glamp has a DJ on Fridays from 6pm and Saturdays from 9pm, making it an ideal spot for cocktails with a friend or for a pretty schmancy first date. The noise levels on Friday night were such that it would be pretty tough going holding a conversation with a group of more than four, but it was just right for a huddled tête-à-tête (without any neighbours overhearing your conversation). Save your D&Ms for during the week though, when the bar operates sans-DJ.

When you've got your spot, one of the chirpy waitstaff will pop over to deliver some water and take an order. There are interesting drinks on the menu, and if you're up for a refreshing pre-dinner aperitif, you couldn't go far wrong with a Jungle Juice ($19): a herbaceous sour with a hint of fresh capsicum. If something a bit stronger is more your tipple then head straight for the Means No Worries ($22) — their take on the Mai Tai — or the Maasai Warrior ($20), which is basically a Negroni. The cocktails will have you reaching deep into your wallet if you plan on having two or three, but there's also an interesting offering of African beers alongside their wine list, with prices from a more friendly $8.50.

As far as food goes, Glamp is definitely on the grazing end of the scale (and with Polepole downstairs there's really no reason to eat anywhere else) — but if you're post-work and starving, you'll be stoked to find a charcuterie platter with biltong, pancetta, 'nduja and an assortment of piquant pickles adorning a wooden slab ($22). If you've already had main course and are in the mood for a finisher, look no further than their cheese board ($18), which comes with a generous serving of manchego, za'atar goats' cheese and gorgonzola. The cheeses are paired with dehydrated green island pear, burnt honey and fig and ginger paste, among other delights.

A nice accompaniment to Polepole downstairs, Glamp is perfect for a sundowner after a hard day traipsing the city, or a great spot for classed-up post-work drinks. No matter who you take, you're sure to impress — even if just for the novelty factor.