Blink and you'll miss the subtle sign to head downstairs from the main street to this underground jazz bar, The Swinging Cat. This basement speakeasy pays homage to the classic cocktails of the Big Easy with a sophisticated feel.
The brainchild of licensee Pete Fischer, who has almost two decades of experience in Sydney's bar scene, including stints at Zeta Bar and Hemmesphere, The Swinging Cat is clearly a passion project. It mines one of the world's great drinking cultures for inspiration and occupies an unfilled niche in Sydney's otherwise comprehensively diverse drinking scene.
The signature cocktail is the Sazerac, done to suit both traditionalists and those looking for a new take on the New Orleans staple. A traditional Sazerac combines five parts cognac to one part absinthe, sugar, and a touch of bitters. Bearing the rosy hue of a Turkish delight and a deliciously aniseed-based scent, it's one of the genius combinations of the cocktail world.
If the Sazerac isn't for you, there is a selection of old fashioneds available alongside house special cocktails and NOLA classics. And wine and beer, of course. Head here for happy hour drinks from 4–6pm Wednesday–Saturday to score a great deal in the city.
Come for the cocktails, but stay for the food and the live jazz music. The food and snack menu is brimming with contemporary takes on classic New Orleans fare. Expect mac 'n' cheese balls, "Zapps" style coffee crisps, Cajun-style popcorn chicken, pulled pork sliders, empanadas and much more.
With gorgeous gaslit lamps, plush lounges and artworks ranging from plump jazz cats to voodoo motifs, it's a classy affair, a homage to New Orleans done with obvious affection and care.
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