Avant garde annex of famed Eau de Vie bar – serving themed cocktail degustation menus
Update: October 2015 Apothecary has closed
November 6th, 2014
Recently launched as a stand-alone adjunct to Sydney’s acclaimed Eau de Vie cocktail bar – the eponymously named Eau de Vie Apothecary was conceived as a vehicle for elevating cocktail appreciation along the lines of a refined gastronomic experience. Helmed by Speakeasy Group veteran Philip Gandevia (aka Dr. Phil), who, after stints originally as an Eau de Vie bartender, and more recently as bar manager at nearby sibling cocktail venue The Roosevelt, takes his mixology and creative skills to new levels at Apothecary. Adopting a culinary approach, the cocktail-only bar uniquely offers guests a selection of several themed cocktail degustation menus. Alternatively, guests can order cocktails individually “a la carte” from across the various menus.
Apothecary occupies a compact unnamed space adjacent to the main Eau de Vie bar – accessed down a passageway behind the lobby entrance to The Kirketon Hotel. The decor follows closely the EDV retro-aesthetic with dark timbers, dim lighting and solid timber bar. Seating options within the intimately proportioned space include a few small two-seater booths, a communal table, and some stools at the bar. Arrayed across the bar, and in elegant glass fronted cabinets behind, an assortment of glass mixing beakers, retort stands, and laboratory apparatus reference the apothecary theme. With a maximum capacity of only 24 guests, the personal service from Dr. Phil is both informative and convivial.
Apothecary currently offers a choice of three themed degustation menus – each with a progression of three different cocktails, built around a whimsical theme. Typifying this concept – one of the current menus – “Down the Garden Path” – showcases cocktails crafted from fresh organic produce. Standout concoctions from this menu include “The Beet Drop – France’s Finest, fig infused port, beetroot, tarragon, egg and chocolate.Textural deliciousness, crossing the boundary from savoury to sweet”. And “What’s up Doc? – Mexican goodness with tequila, a dash of the bitter and twisted, carrot, ginger and citrus. Short and punchy, inspired by Noma. Bugs Bunny approved”.
Cocktail degustation menus at Apothecary – themed and seasonally updated – are priced at an approachable A$60 per menu of three cocktails. To fully appreciate the experience, it is suggested to allow around two hours for the progression through the menu. Open only on Thursday through Saturday nights from 6:00 pm, bookings are recommended. And commencing in November, Dr.Phil will conduct cocktail classes on Wednesday evenings – bookings required. Check on the Eau de Vie Apothecary Facebook Page for updates on new menus and special events.
