Pelicano Double Bay

Step through the glass doors to Pelicano Bar in Double Bay and you enter a space of style and sophistication that would be at home in the Mediterranean. Three levels extend like the decks of a yacht, offering varying degrees of light and intimacy and showcase two impressive bars made of copper with rivets as a nautical touch.

Pelicano, Double Bay

Owners Andrew Becher, Tim Holmes à Court, Damon Downey of Sneaky Sound System and another partner have set to create a neighbourhood-style bar with music and food offerings in an upmarket setting. The result is a stylish venue that exudes Mediterranean chic and evokes memories of the French Riviera.

Upper level

The upper level with its light warm tones and low ceiling creates a relaxed atmosphere. One side features banquettes beneath a series of Matisse works, the other showcases the imposing curved copper bar surrounded by white bar stools.

Upper level bar

An intimate seated section separates the upper and lower bars within view of a porthole.

Lower level bar

The lower level takes you more to the sea with the furnishings taking on a navy hue and Lichtenstein and Warhol prints adding a splash of colour to the walls. The copper bar is just as impressive with its plush navy bar stools inviting you to sit and interact with the bartenders in their blue and white striped shirts.

Jack Ritchie, Bartender

Iced water is served with a diagonal slice of cucumber, light and refreshing and palate cleaning while you study the drinks menu. You’ll find a temporary cocktail list based on popular classics such as Dark and Stormy, the Rob Roy and the Mint Julep. The Dry Martinis, made with Navy Strength Plymouth Gin hit the right spot on a busy Friday night.

Plymouth Gin Martinis

Dan Woolley, General Manager together with Jean Munos, Bar Manager, are refining the cocktail menu which will be available in the next couple of weeks. With their extensive and collective experience, expect to find innovative drinks that give a nod to the Double Bay locale and appeal to both sexes.

Jean Munos, Bar Manager

The Rolls Royce is an old fashioned made with Dalmore 12 yo single malt with dark brown sugar and bitters then sprayed with a cocoa mist. “It’s like liquid silk,” Dan Woolley says. The Cohiba cigar-infused Chivas Regal cocktail is set to leave a lasting impression. For the ladies, Godmother’s Poison will come served a poison bottle, adding an interactive element to the gin and Aperol based cocktail.

The wine list covers the Antipodes, France, Italy, Argentina and USA with some sparkling and Champagne available by the glass. Beers include 3 Sheets from Sydney, Singha from Thailand and Na Bio pale ale, an organic beer from Italy. You’ll also find sake on the drinks menu.

Some of the whiskies

Whisky has a focus at Pelicano. The bar currently stocks about 20 whiskies and the collection is expected to expand to over 50. Custom-made cabinets will house some rare whiskies and tastings will be held in the VIP section that is separated from the main restaurant by curtains.

Dan Woolley, General Manager

The 16 yo Glenlivet Nadurra is a fine single malt to finish the night. Aged exclusively in ex-Bourbon casks, this cask strength whisky has loads of vanilla, a little oak and some spice on the back palate, with a smooth, lingering and warming finish.

VIP Area

The food menu sings the Greatest Hits of Asia with small share plates such as salt and pepper squid, Peking duck pancakes, a variety of dumplings and large plates such as the ocean trout with fennel, watercress and mint and soya poached chicken.

Artwork at Pelicano

Music is an integral part of Pelicano, with a mix of blues, jazz and soul, and some rare French hip hop adding a cutting edge to the venue.

Pelicano brings back the glitz and glamour of Double Bay in its heydays but without the attitude. The ambience is classy but remains relaxed and welcoming. And with a bar team who has garnered experience at Shady Pines, Eau de Vie Bar and the Roosevelt, you can expect nothing short of a first-rate experience.

** UPDATED November 2013 – Pelicano Restaurant Review **

Pelicano
24 Bay Street
Double Bay NSW 2028