Most clicked bars of 2010

1

 

Original, breathtaking and downright dramatic, this lavish bar is a feast for the senses. Melding Melbourne with the Middle East, Spice Market is decorated with antiques and luxe colours to reflect the ancient spice route between Asia and the Far East. With a hidden entrance down Beaney Lane, even the most seasoned bar hoppers will be taken aback by the subterranean treasures which lay beyond the front door.

2

 

Slip into some designer attire and charm the door police, if you feel worthy. This chic bar serves up city views and cocktails featuring chargrilled fruit. It may seem a bit wanky to have to wait in line in front of the Hilton Sydney while humourless bouncers - sorry, 'security managers' - check your shoes for designer labels, but Zeta is worth the extra effort.

3

 

Dive into an underground world of deliciously seductive surroundings, with mouth-watering tapas and thirst quenching cocktails to complement. Hidden at basement level on the corner of Elizabeth Street, one feels as though they have stumbled upon a hidden treasure, tucked away from the busy streets of Sydney's CBD.

4

 

Our lady of luxe may have gotten a facelift, but she hasn't forgotten her roots. After receiving a swanky refurb, it seems the new and improved night spot is an ode to past - a moody retro wonderland of marble coffee tables, luminous fish tanks, animal print cushions, charmingly kitsch chalkboard walls and disco balls.

5

 

Hugo's is so popular within the chi-chi scene, it's almost the cliche of the Kings Cross. Join the line that snakes down the stairs to Bayswater Road and envy the crowds up on the balcony, sipping their pricey cocktails and scotch.

6

 

Reincarnated from its former life as a strip joint, this subterranean secret is decked out with chesterfield lounges, and is often decorated with Sydney's designer-heeled A-listers. DJs spin tracks well into the next day, keeping the party-faithful dancing all night.

7

 

Despite its lack of four walls, this innovative bar draws swarms of stylish city folk. Pull up a packing crate and get into DJ sounds or BYO entertainment.

8

 

Adding to Perth's excitingly burgeoning after-dark scene, this bar (named after everyone's favourite sans-serif font) is sure to awaken the typeface-nerd within, as well as offer a nifty selection of beverages.

9

 

This bar takes a whimsical journey to a more civilised time, when the grass (though faux) was greener, the tennis shorts were tighter and the Pimms flowed freely.