Cookie
If asked to nominate a Melbourne bar that best reminds me of something found in New York, Cookie would be the place.
It’s probably the loft type space it occupies in a grand old 1910’s building, that was once was the headquarters for the Australian Communist Party and today serves to remind us of Melbourne’s early 20th century architectural heritage.
While a cavernous room, Cookie is a fantastic venue and a must visit Melbourne bar at any time.
Noisy, yet welcoming, it is blessed with an abundance of everything.
Friendly atmosphere, a great room, delicious food either from the renowned Thai restaurant or the bar menu and a comprehensive selection of cocktails, wines, spirits and beers.
The bar-tenders are very knowledgeable but be prepared on crowded weekends when you might need a little patience, especially if ordering any of their exotic concoctions.
And if the main room is a little overwhelming (and it can be) and you’d prefer something a little more romantic, head through the main bar towards the smaller back room. It’s darker and more intimate.
The Cookie crowd can be a real mix of ages and social circles but prominent is university types and nightclubbers (before and after). While Curtin House has no formal door policy, there’s usually a bouncer at the entrance to see to it that the crowd remains evenly mixed male to female and that those who want to enjoy one of the various nightspots on offer on any of the 5 levels, aren’t likely to cause trouble.
Not a bad thing in these days of increasing late night City rambunctiousness.
Most nights you’ll probably meet the people next to you just by standing around or perhaps by showing them one of the plethora of books on the bookshelves spread around in the room.
These come from scouring op-shops and duly answers the question of who is buying those awful second hand op shop books! Cookie!!
For foodies, Cookie can be the place for exceptional Thai food.
Bookings are a must but anything from the expansive menu can also be eaten at any of the unreserved tables spread around the room.
Just find a space, sit and order what you like.
The owners of Cookie have created a wonderful establishment with something for everyone.
There’s even four tiny and cosy Juliet balconies, overlooking the street which allow non smokers to enjoy some outdoor drinking or dining and die-hard smokers to get their nicotine fix!
Cookie is open daily from lunchtime through to late night. I love it and heartily recommend it.
Cookie: 252 Swanston St, Melbourne
Ph: 9663 7660
www.theage.com.au/news/bar-reviews/cookie/2006/04/03/1143916452389.html
www.urbanspoon.com/r/71/760512/restaurant/CBD/Cookie-Melbourne
www.lonelyplanet.com/australia/melbourne/restaurants/366755
