Operating as a cafe by day, when the sun sets this venue's alter-ego emerges. Live bands provide a soundtrack to sampling the massive range of tipples.
With live music three nights a weeks and a super-cool vodka bar at the back complete with a funky skylight, Benny's contributes a bit of nocturnal buzz to Freo's Cappuccino Strip.
The streetside alfresco area is perfectly positioned for a spot of people-watching and is the place to be seen posing with a Benny's Crush (Frangelico, vodka, strawberry liqueur, fresh strawberries and lime). If you'd prefer a more private tipple to such a public display, perch on a sturdy stool at the voluptuously curved, brushed-steel bar, where you can contemplate the impressive range of more than 30 imported and domestic beers.
If you're feeling a little saucy (or you'd like to be), sashay back to the rear bar area and take your pick from more than 65 varieties of vodkas. However, sampling them all in one sitting, while tempting, is not necessarily a recommended pursuit. Instead, sip an Espresso Martini and soak up the music. Live bands entertain the crowd with covers of popular songs Thursday through Saturday nights.
It pays to keep your eyes peeled for special events. Benny's has been known to host wine, cocktail and, of course, vodka tastings, as well as movie premiere parties and promotions nights.
Jo Baker
