Polit Bar, nestled upstairs on Manuka’s busy Franklin Street, is something of an oasis, where friends gather on leather stools, sumptuous couches and comfortable booths to imbibe and converse, chatting about the days happenings and exploring a world of wonderful flavours.
With hostess Mary-Jane a vibrant figure who guides guests through their evenings as effortlessly as bubbles through a glass of fine champagne, Polit Bar provides an ideal venue to wish away the working day, enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail, or settle in for a few hours with a friend or two (and a few more cocktails!).
While the drinks list is extensive, it is organised in an easy-to-navigate manner that allows even the most inexperienced purveyor of fine spirits to negotiate their way through with confidence. Or if you want to know more, just ask the knowledgeable staff.
Starting with the classics, even the most experienced quaffer will learn something from the playful descriptions that accompany each of the 30 offerings that have cemented their place in history over the last century or so.
The wine list spends little time flittering around with a sharply focused range of white, reds (the odd rosé), champagne and more bubbles – sourced from the Canberra district and far, far beyond. Be it a restrained glass, or an indulgent bottle, there’s something for every occasion – all the way up to the vintage Dom Pérignon.
Sometimes, though, you just need something to nibble on to make you feel less guilty about the liquid treats that have lined your table. The good news is that Polit Bar is the only late-night food venue in the Inner South, so you’re always assured of something delicious once you make your way upstairs. “Kitchen always open” is the proud motto.
Select from tasty morsels such as olives & salami, or lighter-than-air zucchini fritti or deliciously healthy sweet potato wedges. While all these are perfect for snacked and shared, choosing the house-made dips or cheese boards brings a whole new world of flavours to the table, and are fantastic for small groups. For those who are truly famished, a hearty serve of Italian meatballs in a rich tomato coulis, chilli Korean-style pork, or one of their Aussie-style wagyu beef burgers will hit the spot.
With such rich food offerings – all available until close (the venue is licensed until 4.00am) – Polit Bar is the perfect place for your function. Whether an intimate gathering, or a full-scale takeover of the venue, there are packages available to suit any occasion. To make you feel even more at home, they will even let you bring your own music – and the best news is that once all the fun has been had, you don’t have to clean up!
With a range of events happening across the week including burlesque, cabaret, and comedy nights, cocktail classes (popular for Hens’ parties), live jazz piano, and several “Canberra firsts” such as Tranny Trivia, Naked Girls Reading, WhoDunnit Games nights and Kids Disco afternoons, Polit Bar is THE spot to get away from the daily grind and hide away with good friends.
