Within Darling Square's stunning new food complex lies a haven for all things brewed, distilled and made in small, limited batches: Bucket Boys. Having established their roots in Marrickville in the form of a bottle shop before expanding to a bar, then adding a co-op bottle-o in a Petersham pub to their belts, the boys behind Sydney's craft beer go-to are now in the city.
You'll find this is not your run of the mill watering hole. The bar has 20 taps, each pouring wonderful and 'weird' beers, from a locally brewed raspberry and guava gose to ales, porters, the occasion Belgian brew and a range of BB's own attempts. Not a beer drinker? You'll also find specialty, natural wines and small-batch spirits aplenty.
If you're just passing through and looking to pick up a six-pack (or few), the adjoining bottle-o is just as impressive as the bar. It more closely resembles a sort of art gallery for alcohol, and houses just about everything a new-age drinker could ask for. Sours, saisons and stouts? Of course. Limited runs of Tasmanian gin and wine on skins? You bet. Aussie and Kiwi craft brews are extensively represented as are wines (including BB's own) and spirits, with a carefully selected bunch of international alcohols also available. Basically anything BB deems worthy (which may as well be doctrine) has made it onto the shelves.
Images: Kimberley Low