Ravesi's Wine Bar

First published on 23 Feb 2010. Updated on 21 Oct 2010.

The street level bar at Ravesi's heaves with the Bondi glitterati – it's a heady mix of sculpted beach babes and rippling footy dudes. Though the crowd glimmers with Bondi Beach fairy dust, there is a comfortable feel to the place; nay, it's inviting. A recent cosmetic update to the first floor has yielded three brand spanking new recreation spaces – a cocktail lounge, a restaurant and the wine bar. The wine bar is the central space of the first floor dominated by broad beach vistas, communal bar tables and Queenslander-style balcony space.

As a Bondi Beach staple, Ravesis proffers an upmarket venue for scenesters and aspirational drinkers; the wine bar addition is a fine attempt to broaden the scope for loyal clientele. Jaw-dropping views of the beach, comfortable lounges on the balcony and around 30 wines by the glass go a long way towards lulling wine fiends into submission. Though it's a rainy night, it's perfectly cosy outdoors, and a manager type hovers around at the beck and call of guests.

The wines are sourced from familiar local and international regions, but show a boutique sensibility. Mr Riggs Riesling '09 at the top of the list of whites eases into a cheeky '08 Albarino from respected Spanish producer Paco & Lola. Hoddles Creek Pinot Noir '08 is a steal at $9 a glass, while tasty, tried-and-tested bar snacks arrive promptly from the kitchen. Life is good.

There is trouble in paradise, however. It just doesn't feel like a wine bar. We're high on the vibe, not on the supply. Mispronunciation of grape varieties, a stuttering description of the style of a chablis and the pub-style ordering all detract from the wine bar ambience. Wine bars aren't just about a great, broad, by-the-glass list; there is an element of knowledge and service required to take things to the next level.

Though things need a little spit shine, it's a joy to laze around Ravesi's Wine Bar and soak up the vibrant atmos of bustling Bondi Beach from one's perch.