Alcohol and Zen ideology seem to be an odd combination, but the two blend perfectly in this swanky inner-city cocktail bar come R&B retreat.
Situated in a the recesses of a CBD basement, Element lounge hosts a strong industrial bunker vibe touched with an exotic Zen twist, which extends right from the welcoming Buddha at the base of the front staircase to the naughty toilets which are unisex (for good feng shui?). The interior is quite stark, with lots of concrete, so be careful not to take a tumble after your fifth cocktail. However, the cavernous space is cosied-up with beige leather settees, glowing tea light table lamps, draped bamboo screens and candles nesting peacefully in the boxed sections of slatted wall fittings.
The cocktail menu is designed around the bar's elemental theme with five signature blends - Fire, Wood, Metal, Water and Earth - featuring a host of top-secret ingredients including Agua Luca, fresh mint, pineapple, chilli vodka and Zen green tea. At just $12 each, you'll be able to sample them all. The drinks menu is completed with a variety of imported champagnes such as Moet & Chandon and Lanson Black Label, as well as a pan-Asian boutique beer selection including popular imports like Singha, Tiger, and Tsing Tao. The decor might be sparse, but Element definitely captures a mod-Japanese minimalist aesthetic and has been elegantly designed as an ideal Friday chill-out zone for corporate workers. Saturday night entertainment features a selection of Melbourne's top house tune masters such as Wei Shen and Sofo.
Maya Linden
