Soho Bar

First published on 23 Apr 2008. Updated on 30 Nov 2009.

Soho has had its first makeover in 20 years, offering partygoers a new, plumped-up venue that stretches over two levels with four bars. Step inside and all at once you'll be confronted by a giant dance floor that closely resembles the set from a Justin Timberlake clip. Thanks to multicoloured fluorescent tiles, blue-lit booths, air-con on full bore, a DJ armed with high energy electro tunes, plus an adjacent bar and lounge area, the space comes well prepared to handle the post-midnight onslaught of sweaty, hyper teens. If you're brave enough to get involved, make sure you have at least two Jägerbombs under your belt, or get there early on a Friday to cash in on the $5 drinks. For those wanting to start their night with a cocktail rather than tequila shots, the Tequila Mockingbird makes for an adequate substitute – even the intensely sweet combo of Chambord, cranberry and vanilla liqueur can't drown out the large measure of Cuervo tequila, which is indeed enough to kill a mockingbird (or indeed, any bird). The Yellow Submarine – gin, apple liqueur, passionfruit pulp and ginger beer – is far more drinkable. At $10 each during happy hour Friday, these cocktails may be forgiven, but they certainly won't be forgotten. For a safer option, drink a beer.