“Uncovering the Hidden Beauty: Exploring Melbourne’s Surprising Caretaker Cottage”

The Hidden Beauty of Caretaker’s Cottage: Melbourne‘s New Favourite Haunt

A Quaint Brick Cottage in the Heart of Melbourne CBD

A quaint brick cottage nestled in the heart of Melbourne‘s bustling CBD is gaining worldwide attention for what’s hidden inside. The charming period structure hides a modern bar aptly named the Caretaker’s Cottage, which Melburnians are dubbing their new favourite haunt. This hidden gem has recently been recognized as one of The World’s 50 Best Bars for 2023, ranking an impressive 23rd place.

A World-Class Venue with Unparalleled Atmosphere

Guests are flocking to Caretaker’s Cottage to experience its world-class cocktails, enjoy the ultra-cool fit-out, groove to tunes from the DJ booth-slash-bar’s spinning vinyls, and soak up the relaxed pub vibes. The bar offers a selection of craft beers and Guinness on tap, alongside the bartenders’ specialty, which the 50 World’s Best Bars jury of cocktail specialists dubbed ‘Australia’s coldest Martini’.

The minute size of the cottage has sparked fascination among visitors, leading one to describe it as the ‘smallest bar in Melbourne‘. The quirky artwork adorning the cottage walls adds to the charm and uniqueness of the venue.

The Historical Significance of Caretaker’s Cottage

The Little Lonsdale cottage, constructed in 1914 for the Wesley Place church’s caretaker, serves as the home for Caretaker’s Cottage. The construction cost just £850 at the time. It remained the caretaker’s residence until the late 1990s, and in early 2022, it was transformed into the bar we see today. Despite its relatively short history, Caretaker’s Cottage has quickly gained recognition, making it to the World’s 50 Best Bars long list in the previous year, ranking 60th, and jumping an impressive 37 spots to secure its 23rd place in 2023.

The Australian Bar Scene Shines Bright

Caretaker’s Cottage is not the only Australian establishment to be recognized on the World’s 50 Best Bars list. Sydney’s iconic Maybe Sammy has also made its mark, coming in at number 15. Maybe Sammy has achieved this prestigious acclaim consistently since its opening in 2019, climbing 14 spots from its 29th place in 2022. These accomplishments showcase Australia’s growing contribution to the global bar scene and further solidify the country’s reputation for top-notch hospitality and innovative mixology.

Editorial: A Testament to Melbourne‘s Hidden Surprises

Melbourne has always been hailed as a city that rewards exploration, and the unveiling of Caretaker’s Cottage as one of the World’s 50 Best Bars is another testament to this fact. The unassuming exterior of the cottage hides a vibrant, meticulously-designed interior that has captivated locals and visitors alike. It is a delightful reminder that great experiences can often be found in unexpected places.

Australians are known for their love of a good bar, and Caretaker’s Cottage exemplifies the country’s innovative spirit and dedication to quality hospitality. It also serves as a showcase for Melbourne‘s ability to seamlessly blend history with modernity, preserving the charm of a bygone era while offering a contemporary drinking experience.

As Melbourne continues to cement its status as a global cultural hub, the recognition of Caretaker’s Cottage and Maybe Sammy on the World’s 50 Best Bars list brings well-deserved attention to Australia’s vibrant bar scene and encourages further exploration of the country’s diverse and ever-evolving culinary offerings.

Advice for Bar Enthusiasts: Seek Out Hidden Gems

For bar enthusiasts seeking unique experiences, Caretaker’s Cottage is undoubtedly a must-visit. Its blend of history, atmosphere, and expertly-crafted cocktails make it an unforgettable destination for both locals and tourists. The bar’s recognition on the World’s 50 Best Bars list serves as a solid endorsement but is also a reminder to explore hidden gems that may often be overlooked.

When venturing out, do not limit yourself to popular and well-known establishments. Instead, take the time to uncover hidden beauty and unconventional venues that may surprise and delight. Melbourne, in particular, offers a myriad of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. These secret haunts often embody the city’s creative spirit and provide an opportunity to delve into its rich cultural tapestry.

So, venture beyond the ordinary and seek out the extraordinary. Allow yourself to be pleasantly surprised by the unexpected craftsmanship and warmth that lies within Melbourne‘s hidden bar treasures like Caretaker’s Cottage.