Berkelouw Wine Bar

It's surprising, really, how few bars Leichhardt boasts. Hopefully, this bookshop-cum-wine-bar is the kick in the pants this otherwise vibrant suburb needs. It ain't no beer hall or dive bar. It's the kind of place that will charm anyone, whether solo, in a group or canoodling on a date. Berkelouw recalls the library of a grand residence – muted tones and period-style furniture are framed by the walls of tomes. A mini-grand piano occupies a corner and the bar proffers jazz musicians throughout the week. Food is kept simple, with regional cheeses a focus. The wine list also points towards regionality, with a different wine-producing district featured each month. Berkelouw's owners, Colin Cappelleri and Gary Mullins, aren't looking to reinvent the wheel, just get it moving a little faster with this solid and original addition to a rapidly burgeoning scene.