Johnny Fishbone - CLOSED

Overview

Since '50s-inspired bar Hinky Dinks closed late last year, there's been a gaping, cocktail-sized hole at 185 Darlinghurst Road. But, the good news is, it's now been filled — and with some high-level Sydney hospitality personnel, no less.

The team behind Darlinghurst favourite Buffalo Dining Club have well and truly taken over the space, launching a sleek new wine parlour Johnny Fishbone last night. The name embossed in shimmering gold lettering on the wooden door is sign enough that the new tenants have changed the whole vibe of the space — inside, the chequered floor has been replaced with understated tiling, the red features have been axed in favour of deep greens and timber, and a long marble-topped wooden bar is the main centrepiece. There's a solid wine wall too, which should tell you a lot about their offering.

As its pedigree would suggest, Johnny is also turning out some top-notch bar food. Choose from seafood snacks like oysters, ceviche and sardines with tomato jam or bigger options such as the fish with cured fennel and saffron and the spatchcock with paprika brandy. Johnny Fishbone is open from 5pm Tuesday and Sunday, so you can head there and grab a seat at the bar tonight — although, if it's anything like Buffalo Dining Club, it could be hard to get one.

By Jasmine Crittenden and Lauren Vadnjal. Images: Steven Woodburn.