The post-work drink has a lot going for it, but a free serving of fries helps its case. The Commons Café & Bar has locations on Collins Street (Melbourne) and at Martin Place (Sydney), and you don't need to be a member to drop in for a drink. For anyone keen to get started early, Aperitif Hour runs every Thursday and Friday from 4–6pm. The menu covers cocktails for $10, martinis for $11, and beer and wine for $8. Order from the Signature or Classic Cocktail lists instead, and you'll get free fries from 4pm until close. Each serving includes your choice of two seasonings and three sauces. Pair any two of salt and vinegar for something sharp, chilli lime for heat, chicken and tarragon, or toasted nori and sesame. Then pick three of five sauces: pineapple barbecue, truffle aioli, chilli aioli, caper and tarragon tartare, and black garlic aioli. So, yes, there are a few decisions to make before the fries hit the table. You could keep things classic with Salt & Vinegar and Truffle Aioli, add some heat with Chilli Lime and Chilli Aioli, or go for Toasted Nori & Sesame with Black Garlic Aioli. There's a new bar menu designed for sharing, too, with dishes made to sit alongside the drinks. It's available during Aperitif Hour and beyond, so there's plenty to order if a quick drink turns into dinner. Aperitif Hour runs from 4–6pm, which puts it neatly in the gap between finishing work and figuring out what to do with the rest of the evening. Add in a cocktail, a bowl of fries and a table full of food, and there's a strong case for staying put a little longer. The Commons Café & Bar's Aperitif Hour is on every Thursday and Friday from 4–6pm at Collins Street in Melbourne and Martin Place in Sydney. Visit The Commons' website for more information. Images: Supplied