D.R. Davies Lounge

Like a fungus growing in the shadow of the MLC centre, the D.R. Davies Lounge hasn’t changed since architect Harry Seidler decided that what Sydney’s mostly lifeless 70s skyline needed was a building shaped like a giant mushroom. You can smell the history in this open plan room, from its patterned carpets and plush scarlet booths to nana's bathroom tiles lining the curved walls. It’s a bygone era captured forever like an insect in amber, while outside on Castlereagh Street, the years roll past.

There’s a selection of house-standard bottles but for the most part, it’s beer, beer or beer. Or a Martini. We asked one of the bartenders what they offered in the way of cocktails and that’s what he came back with. But the way he said it, beer it is.

Happily, though, the prices have also been semi-frozen in time. The $3.95 schooners must be amongst the best value in the CBD. And the adjoining bistro does $15 rib-eye steaks. Cheap as chips.

Don’t come here expecting anything more than the bare bar essentials and a history lesson on cool spatial design and you won’t leave disappointed.

The D.R. Davies Lounge is a part of the CTA Business Club.