Overview
Take a journey into the past at the InterContinental Sydney, with the launch of the unique Oldest Lift Bar Experience. Making the most of one of the hotel's most fascinating features – the Southern Hemisphere's oldest working lift – this particular spot is found hidden in The Treasury bar, which itself has a few remarkable stories to tell since being built in 1851. With the lift carefully protected ever since, it's now hosting a special cocktail hour to celebrate the building's enduring heritage.
Flooded with natural light from the hotel's original cortile – an impressive atrium and gathering space – this precise spot was once home to the first colonial vineyard. Now, guests can step inside the lift to indulge in micrococktails made by resident mixologists as they ascend and descend through the hotel. Serving as an elegant nod to the InterContinental Sydney's immense past, this experience evokes an intimate ambience and centuries-old charm.
As for the tipples, there are four creations to explore. The Georgian Gimlet celebrates The Treasury's impressive architecture and features Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, citrus, sugar and sencha tea. The Treasury's subterranean coffer inspires the Vault Martini, with Beluga Noble Vodka mixed with dry curacao, hibiscus and citrus, while the Atrium Negroni reflects the light-filled dome through Four Pillars Dry Gin, Campari, vermouth and lemon myrtle. Finally, the 1851 Old Fashioned nods to the building's origins with Dalmore Double Oak, sugar, bitters, and macadamia.
"The Treasury Bar is a vault of Sydney's best-kept secrets and we're thrilled to unveil the southern hemisphere's oldest lift bar," says Mattia Arnaboldi, director of bars at InterContinental Sydney. "It will allow guests to immerse themselves in a part of Sydney's rich history, journeying through time and taste, as they sip on cocktails that reflect the heritage and charm of The Treasury."
Once you've enjoyed your inventive drink in the lift, the experience continues at The Treasury bar. Here, a second cocktail selected from a curated menu is served alongside two delicious small plates, including betel leaves with caramelised pork and crisp vegetable herbs, and beef skewers with tonnato sauce and fried baby capers. Running until March 29, the Old Lift Bar Experience operates on Fridays and Saturdays from 4–6pm, and costs $69 per person.
The Oldest Lift Bar Experience is happening at InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie Street, Sydney. Head to the website for more information.
Images: Steven Woodburn.