Nude
This risqué bar will become a frequent habit if you're not careful, writes Shannon Langan
The sign at the bottom of the stairs warns ‘appropriate dress required'. That's fair - the lethal combination of alcohol and inappropriate dress has led to a few trysts and a little amorous persuasion in the past. But head up those stairs to Nude Bar atop Glebe's Australian Youth Hotel and you're pretty much a goner.
This elegant former brothel has been lushly restored and hasn't lost its erotic edge either. Now it's Nude it simply aims to service customers in a different way, with a racy cocktail list that'll surprise even most seasoned Sydney barflies. But if you're after an original bar experience, this is it.
Nude's libidinous theme is a salacious feast for all the senses. After your eyes become adjusted to the sultry light and warm, romantic interiors, they're automatically redirected to the wall covered from frame to frame in nude ladies. It's ubiquitous without being distracting - just enough to let you know that this formerly anything-goes-establishment relishes its sordid past with tasteful artistry.
The pride of the place, though, is the brand spanking new cocktail list. Kinky is one word. Masochistic might be a little more fitting.
They serve everything from a Chastity - (chamomile Martini with honey and hazelnut), to an S&M (cognac, cinnamon, vanilla and cream) to a Sadistic (absinthe, mint, pineapple and sugar). Most meld very sweet and warm flavors, so one's probably enough before you're ready for a more standard libation.
If straight up is where you're at, try the Margarita. If you haven't developed a taste for these (tequila, lime juice and triple sec shaken over ice), experiment with this before you quit on them for good. It's hard to detect the tequila in there under all that limey goodness, but down three and you'll feel the aftershock.
Nude's sharply dressed and coolly professional staff might be constantly rushed get them on your order and they're big on attention to detail.
Park yourself near the fireplace on red velvet antique sofas or leather furnishings under the ornate chandeliers accented by sheer curtains. The old fashioned dark wood bar at the centre is grandly traditional, but the little surrounding floor space makes getting to it difficult, so be prepared to make friends with whoever you're pushed up against. The music is low enough to promote a bubbly level of conversation among the young professional crowd, but on Thursdays there's an in-house DJ to ramp up the energy.
The Nude Bar is still finding its footing with space constraints and a well-rounded drink list, but it's gaining quick ground, and it's worth hitting up for a laidback night and some good, clean fun.
Nude 63 Bay St, Glebe 2037. (02 9692 0414). Wed 4pm-12am; Thu-Fri 12pm-12am; Sat 4pm-12am; Sun 4pm-10pm.