With homely matching sofas and original cocktails, this reno-ed Port Melbourne bar has a country rustic charm.
Ponies aren't always as fun as they're made out to be. Growing up in rural NSW with awkward jodhpurs, 4am starts on weekends and broken collarbones taught me that, but Sloaney Pony in Port Melbourne has reassured me that it's not all bad. For a start, it's a hell of a lot cheaper, is way less moody and won't stand on your foot and pretend not to notice.
Formerly known as The Fountain Inn, Sloaney has undergone one of those jaw-dropping transformations that make people actually want to go there, instead of vetoing it in favour of a cleaner toxic rubbish site. Starting by replacing the sticky carpets with gleaming floorboards it's definitely the sort of place where you could tie up your steed and enjoy your beverages in the world of country rustic charm.
While leather couches are as overused in Melbourne as the communion cup at World Youth Day, there's something warm and homely about the plethora of matching sofas that make you want to lie down and tell someone all your problems. A wrought-iron gate separates the diners from the winers, though a bar menu is available for those wanting to augment their brews with something a little more substantial.
With an extensive wine list and original cocktails that pack a tasty punch, you're definitely going to want to saddle up this pony and canter off into the sunset. Just make sure you don't drink and ride.
Penny Wedesweiler
