The Team Behind Rockpool Is Opening Elegant New Cocktail Bar Alice in The Rocks This Month

Hunter St. Hospitality, the team behind Rockpool Bar & Grill, Saké and Spice Temple, is opening a luxurious new cocktail bar in a newly renovated space in The Rocks. Alice has moved in and transformed the basement level of 16 Argyle Street, the building formerly occupied by The Cut Bar & Grill.

Situated next to The Rocks nightclub The Argyle, Alice boasts a 65-seat main bar and a semi-private space with the capacity for an additional 10 guests. The bar is fitted out with jewel-toned booths and velvet drapes, with Hunter St. enlisting the help of People of Design to create a sleek, luxurious atmosphere.

Head downstairs into this classically romantic cocktail lounge and you'll be greeted by an inventive selection of drinks. Signature creations include the Alice Spritz, combining Cocchi Americano, prosecco and raspberry shrub; the Nitro Spumoni, a Campari sour made with saffron tincture, tonic reduction and nitro grapefruit; and the Spicy Calavera mezcal margarita, flavoured with fresh lime, agave, pineapple, chilli and coriander.

While the cocktails are the obvious centrepiece of the offerings at Alice, the bar snacks are just as big of a drawcard, drawing from the menus of its sibling venues in Rockpool and Spice Temple. The dishes are equal parts lavish and playful, like the caviar service which comes accompanied by tater tots and créme fraiche.

Small plates include chicken liver parfait profiteroles, Sichuan fried chicken, empanadas and an array of raw and sliced items like scallop crudo, beef carpaccio and pickled cauliflower. Those in search of something to satisfy a more stable hunger can order from the bar's sandwich menu. Think pork katsu and cabbage sambos, pork and fennel hot dogs and a moreish cheese toastie made with four types of cheese and accompanied by a cheese dip.

Alice will open at 16 Argyle Street, The Rocks from Thursday, September 8. It will be open 5pm–midnight Wednesday–Thursday and 4.30pm–1am Friday–Saturday.