I can’t get enough of Sydney’s bar scene, and the latest offering by hospitality giant Merivale, J&M, is an intimate whisky bar that pays homage to where it all began. And I love it!
What many may not know, is Merivale was once a fashion brand, and their multi-level fashion outlet, House of Merivale, once stood exactly where J&M now stands, on Level 2 of the historic Angel Hotel in Sydney.
A cultural phenomenon, The House of Merivale lit a fire beneath Australia’s staid fashion world. Modelled on the fun and frivolity of London’s concept boutiques, these eye-popping outlets not only influenced an entire generation of young Australians, but also introduced an entirely new concept to local retail. House of Merivale at The Angel also launched one of Merivale’s first forays into hospitality, with an innovative restaurant and espresso bar located on Level 2.
[contextly_sidebar id=”2EcSd9wNfzk4hNo2raew68hPlaQJm4Q7″]Now with Level 2 returned to a bar once more, it reflects on the building’s rich fashion history with sumptuous interiors of rich green velvets, sleek brown leathers and copper accents. Boasting luxurious chesterfield sofas and a long glass bar, alongside its hero feature – a specially imported drinks trolley, it also includes bespoke haberdashery cabinets filled with the ingredients that make up the rich, multi-layered aromas of Chivas 18 – dried fruits, buttery toffee and dark chocolate.
Guests can lounge and enjoy the personal trolley service or sit by the bar to learn more about whisky from experts in the field and taste exclusive whiskies not available for purchase anywhere else in Australia. J&M also offers an ever-changing list of specially crafted cocktails and a short, nostalgic menu offering a tasty selection of small dishes to enjoy with a cocktail before or after dinner.