The much-anticipated launch of Canberra’s latest bar was an overarching success. With a guest list of over 400 people, and the alluring promise of an evening of decadence, the bar drew some of Canberra’s most well-known business owners, socialites and personalities. The bar launch was surrounded by a lot of hype and did not disappoint.

Entering the bar was the first surprise of the evening. As I approached the front door, I was greeted by a gentleman who led me through to a room full of models… actual models; Which made me feel glad I’d dressed up for this one! The models turned out to be a charming assortment of women, who then offered me a drink and showed me through to the bar area, pearly whites gleaming. It really set the tone for the evening, and the bar.

Left to my own devices, I took a look around the bar and couldn’t help but feel uncertain of where I was. Having spent a reasonable amount of time in bars around the country, and the world – although I have to admit, many less reputable than this one, I felt oddly at home whilst not feeling quite like I was in Canberra. The bar is absolutely delightful! It’s warm homely tones make you feel instantly set for a night with friends, whilst the undercurrent of music seems to sweep you into a rather debaucherous mood.

The evening was incredibly indulgent, with drinks and food supplied the entire night. The cocktails I sampled lived up to the hype. I started with the Bella 75, and moved onto a Moscow Mule, went back to the Bella 75 and then … well, I won’t reveal quite how much I drank, but I definitely recommend sampling, and re-sampling this amazing menu! The food menu was equally as impressive. A sample of the bar menu was out for all to try and I did not hear from a single disappointed patron. The combinations of flavours were absolutely mouth watering, and would have made the evening entirely worthwhile for the designated drivers among the crowd.

Bellabar made the claim that Friday nights just got attractive, and it was justified. I was thoroughly impressed, and the launch left me with high expectations for all of my after work drinks from now on. If you did not make the launch I highly recommend attending this coming Friday. You will most certainly be surprised!