If you can look beyond the groan-inducing pun, there's a charming lounge bar to be found with walls as creative as the wine list.
Bar Zooka feels like a city bar that moved to Brunswick, with the decor featuring ruby lanterns above the bar, contrasting with azure walls hung with works by local artists. The art's for sale and exhibitions change every six weeks, so you'd best not wait too long if something does take your fancy between ordering one bottle and the next. The wine list features plonk from each state and territory, delivering a patchwork of vino for wannabe wine tourists.
Formerly a full-time poker bar, Bar Zooka still hosts poker nights mid-week, but its focus now is more on creating a modern and charismatic alternative to the shabby-chic haunts that dominate Brunswick. Thursday nights see Bar Zooka host an African DJ night, while if you drop in a Sunday arvo you'll catch some live acoustic blues and jazz.
If you're drinking in Brunswick, but tired of the sticky-carpet scene, head to Bar Zooka for a shot of something different. Since popping up, this sleek, art-filled wine bar has lured young professionals and a more mature crowd looking for some ambience coupled with their relaxed glass of vino.
Ben Maas
