Wander down to the basement through Morning Glory or search for the hidden door on doorway off Phillip Law Street which leads you down a lift and into Canberra’s newest neighbourhood hideaway.
Black Market (which formerly occupied the space) was one of Canberra’s best kept secrets, the difference now though, is that High Jinks wants to be seen. Focused less on the mystery and more on what mischief can be had at all hours of the night.
This cavernous bar has no limits. Offering strong drinks, rich flavours and an open door to neighbouring venues. While the bar stays focused on indulgent drinks and temptations antipasti platters, guests can look to Morning Glory and Parlour for canapés. Our visit consisted of karage chicken sliders and ham & cheese croquettes – the perfect drinking partners.
High Jinks was an 18th century drinking game. It’s literal meaning is ‘boisterous fun,’ and that is exactly what the new venue owner, Noriel Calub wants to achieve in the much-loved space. Encapsulating his own personality, Noriel welcomes locals to have a ‘silly goose time.’
“High Jinks is a is the culmination of all my efforts to create a space and atmosphere that feels like a local,” Noriel says.
“The concept of High Jinks is a fun neighbourhood charm – a bar where you can be yourself, where you can unwind, have fun, escape and catch up with friends whilst provided with good old-fashioned hospitality, a professional touch, quality food and seasonal on-trend cocktails.”
You can select from a range of tap beers, local wines, choice spirits and seasonal cocktails, and also grab a bite to eat. And no matter the day, you’ll find tunes that suit the occasion – jazz on vinyl on Tuesdays, rockabilly from Wednesdays onwards and old school hip hop late into Saturday night. Keep an eye out for events, including cocktail workshops, tasting events and spirit take-overs, where he teams up with booze brands to deliver a fun experience.
Have you voted for the OutInCanberra People’s Choice awards? VOTE NOW
