Velero

Velero is chic and relaxed. The open bar runs the entire length of the back wall, but the real attraction is the outside area. Whitewashed straw chairs and bright cushioned lounges and banquettes spill out onto the wharf, perfect for soaking up the afternoon sun and drinking some cocktails. Give the crisp, perfectly balanced Apple and Mint Sour a tilt – it's the perfect antidote to a Sunday hangover (or a great way to start a new one for Monday). For those brave few who remain on speaking terms with tequila, the Peach and Pomegranate Margarita makes for a mild and pleasing twist on the classic. If you're a purist, you might find the addition of peach less than ideal. The diverse selection of local and imported wines - from robust Barossa cab savs and NZ sav blancs to more exotic tongue-twisters like Italian montepulcianos and Spanish albarinos - means you won't be stuck for choice, but you might want to enlist the help of sommelier Gary Armstrong to point you in the right direction. The price range is fair; glasses start at $8 and go up to $24 for Champagne but most fall in the $10–$14 range. Unfortunately you'll find very few bottles below the $45 mark. The beer selection is also varied; Melbourne's Mountain Goat and Peroni feature alongside Cascade and the lesser-known Quilmes from Buenos Aires. The optimal time to go and enjoy a beverage or two (or a few) is on the weekends when the wharf sees a hub of activity, yet for Friday after-work drinks there's nothing like sitting back and watching the sun go down over the botanic gardens. It certainly makes you feel a little more special than at your local pub.