Concealed in the design of a passport, this bar's cocktail menu is your passage to an extravagant night out at the nouveau haunt for Melbourne's hip and beautiful.
Chapel Street newcomer, White Charlie, has captured the attention of chic Melburnians with an exclusive star-studded opening in August 2008 and the mystique of its unintentionally controversial name - more a reference to the prohibition days of the hip speakeasy club than anything illicit, as the owners will assure you.
The bar's aspiration to a New York vintage aesthetic is reflected in ornately framed mirrors, glittering chandeliers and an opulent decor accented with imperial purple feature walls and an indulgent array of designer drinks to match. The signature cocktail is White Charlie's Chocolate Cheesecake - a thick blend of Sagatiba Pura Cachaca, Mozart White Liqueur, Monin White Chocolate Syrup, mascarpone cheese, fresh lemon juice and white chocolate garnish, which can be downed for the very reasonable price of $15. For something slightly lighter, try the Dragon Boat featuring McKenna Bourbon, Monin Orgeat Syrup, fresh lemon and ginger.
For a cocktail bar-cum-nightclub, White Charlie has an extensive wine list that hints at its intentions to open as an eatery in the future, offering Asian tapas-style share plates to satisfy Friday's local after-work crowd, who like to settle on the ample lounges and chill out with a glass French Champagne or local Australian white. The choice of tap beers, such as Little Creatures and Two Brothers also emphasises a dedication to supporting smaller boutique breweries.
After 10pm, a mod black-and-white dance floor comes alive with local DJs spinning tunes that range from soft vocal house to retro disco, up-tempo Cafe del Mar and UK beats. Smokers won't be left out in the cold with possibly one of the best smoking areas in Melbourne: a spacious bamboo-adorned glasshouse that overlooks the main bar, lounge and dance floor.
Maya Linden
