Review: 24 Moons

Friday 14 May 2010, 12.00 PM
By The Team | Posted in Places

There is something embedded in the DNA of Melbourne bars which means they must be difficult to find. Tucked away in dark laneways, doorways guarded by overflowing bins or up several flights of lung-busting stairs, the searching and eventual discovery always makes you feel like you are one of the knowing few.

24 Moons is one of those places. Only open for six months, this AC/DC laneway bar is signposted by a saucy lass in red, pointing you in the right direction. Climbing up the stairs (thankfully there are only three flights here) and find yourself surrounded by street art and stencils before you arrive in this slick urban space, which uses natural woodland elements to soften its dark and moody interior. Two sheer screens divide the room and feature an ever-changing array of eclectic visual projections. It’s cleverly lit so that each table seems like a cosy nook – perfect for plotting the downfall of small empires… or just planning where to eat next.

This is a place for cocktail sophisticates – with 24 serious cocktails to take you through the waxing and waning of the moon. The more the moon is concealed, the greater the strength and complexity of the drink. I went straight for the Id Est (quarter moon) so even the waiter winced as I ordered it. Definitely a drink you would normally work your way up to, this smoky lapsang souchong infused cocktail made my head spin and my toes curl. Make sure you look out for their Blue Moon specials.

Creativity is almost as important as the drinks, and 24 Moons plays host to a wide and varied program of creative happenings: from spoken word and burlesque performance to live music and DJs.

Vital Stats
Take: Your paramour, sugardaddy or admirer de jour
Cocktails: $7- $19
Beers: $5-$10.50
Wines (per glass): $6-$17
Spirits: $9-$24
Snacks: $5.50-$22

« « Little Lonsdale Street | A compendium of incredible stuff » »