Do you remember way back when you would go on an island getaway and gather around the pool bar watching the sun go down as someone played jazz in the background? Yes, you say wistfully, you remember? Well you can enjoy those days again, but all in the heart of the city at 25 Martin Place’s Cabana Bar.
Cabana Bar a beautifully designed escape from the city, while being in the heart of it. There’s a menu designed to bring the sunshine in, no matter the weather outside, and cocktails to take you far far away from a hectic day of work.
The space spans one entire side of the recently renovated MLC, and has five distinct areas that are packed with other stay-cation enthusiasts.
For drinks we tried the Spicy Senorita ($21), which is Casamigo’s Blanco Tequila, Lime, Agave, Tabasco – garnished with whole chili. Phew it’s a hot one, but if you’re a spicy senorita, it’s a good match for your palette. The Pina Colada ($20) made from Malibu Coconut Liqueur, Pampero Blanco Rum, Pineapple, Coconut Cream is a highly recommended classic and not one seen on many menus around town. We suggest having one of both, the Pina Colada soothes the light lip tingle from the Spicy Senorita!
Overall the food is of an impeccable high standard and exits the kitchen at a rapid pace, making the space perfect for lunch, meetings or a bite before a show. One of the tasting team from DA is gluten free – and the options for GF folks are plenty. Likewise the vegan options are extensive, plus – as bonus, the cocktails are vegan using chickpea acquafaba rather than egg whites.
Our feast started with the rock oysters and the Cucumber Mignonette ($4.5 each). The attention to detail on the cucumber is awe inspiring. The mignonette is fresh and coupled with a cocktail you could be anywhere but here. I think you’re getting the theme of the place by now!
We followed with Zucchini Blossoms, packed with cheese and fried (3 for $17). These were a stand-out favourite for the wheat-eater as were the gluten free Fried Squid with with Romesco Aioli ($18). We also enjoyed Tequila Cured Salmon & Blue Corn Tostadas, Avocado Crema, Jalapeño, Lime (3 for $21) and the W.A Grilled Scallops In The Shell, Miso, Sesame, Shallots (3 for $21). These two were also favourites. The Miso Scallops are beautifully presented and are perfectly cooked. In fact the entire share selection should accompany a few cocktails after work (and on Thursday and Friday night the team have live music – what better reason to get out and about).
For mains we had the Blue Swimmer Crab Spaghetti with Tomatoes, Chilli, Herbs and Breadcrumbs ($35). An enormous serving of generously adorned pasta – much like the theme of the rest of the menu it was light and fresh.
The Pan Seared Tasmanian Salmon in a Cashew Coconut Curry with Bok Choy is a great marriage of flavour – often hard to do with a fish as richly flavoured as salmon. We enjoyed yet another large serving that could be shared amongst friends.
Cabana Bar is reviving Sydney – bringing the best of both worlds – cocktails and an extensive wine list along with live music plus a killer menu of high quality food for the fun-seeking professional set with discerning taste-buds.
The team that work here are friendly, upbeat and keen to make every experience special – it really is just like being on a magical holiday.
Cabana Bar
25 Martin Place
Mon-Sat Midday until late
