Mary Fortune - CLOSED

Overview

We love a good woman who paves the way for those who follow her. Mary Helena Fortune was one of those women. One of the first female detective writers in the world, and also one of the first to write from the perspective of the detective, she did great things for the written word. So, Mary Fortune, the bar above Papa Goose on Flinders Lane is a tribute of sorts to the lovely lady herself. A writer's den, it's a place for a cocktail with a side of deep thought, or simply as a place for a drink with friends.

From the restaurant downstairs, amble up the staircase into the intimate space with shared tables and a long bar. Perfect for the after-work crowd, chandeliers, a marbled bar and floor to ceiling wine racks set the scene. It can get quickly fill up, so come early to nab yourself a good spot.

Wine and cocktails are really the reason to pop into this watering hole. The wine list is heavy on Australian and European drops, with a Bay of Fires Cuvee Brut from Tasmania ($14 glass) and the beautiful Charles De Monrency Reserve Brut from France ($18 glass) recommended for something bubbly.  Whites by the glass might see a 2012 Castellore Pinot Grigio ($13) or a Fire Block Riesling from Clare Valley ($12). Those after a red should try the 2011 Rossi & Riccardo Sangiovese from Tuscany ($13 a glass) or the 2012 Syrahmi 'Demi' Shiraz from Heathcote ($14 lass).

The cocktails are playfully named after Mary Fortune's stories, offering them something a little different. Sip The Detective's Diary (a mix of Zubrowka vodka, basil, lemon, sugar and pineapple, $20), or, for something sweet and hot, try the Checkmate & Revenge — a combination of Vodka, Kahlua, creme de cacao, vanilla, chilli and chocolate bitters ($18).

Food comes purely in the form of drinking snacks, and you might find a beautiful charcuterie plate or cheese selection alongside your tipple.

You never know what might happen when you start spending time with Mary Fortune. Even if you don't solve a mystery or two, the drinks are worth the trouble alone.