Apoteca

APOTECA is one of those places that evokes a feeling of nostalgia for absinthe-fuelled midnight sessions from an era long gone. Even more fitting is the location, in the buzzing and dilettantish West End precinct of Hindley Street, where the days are short and the nights are long.

Paola Coro is the long-time owner who is as much of an institution as her award-winning wine bar and restaurant. She’s been at the helm of the bar’s revamped look with its New York-inspired vintage vibe garnished with exposed brickwork, brass finishes and ambient lighting.

There are three levels, but you’ll want to have at least one glass in the Manhattan-themed bar boasting an impressive line-up of Prohibition-style cocktails served against a dramatic backdrop of a 150-year-old apothecary cabinet. If your preference is for wine, the bar presents a dynamic turnover of local wines and Champagnes by the glass, making it particularly enchanting each time you visit.

Downstairs, there’s an old cellar that’s been converted into an intimate restaurant, complete with a cellar on display.

Choose your wine from a strong line-up of mostly South Australian producers that Paola has procured from long-standing relationships with the local wine community. You can also find some special cellar releases – some not on the list, so all you need to do is ask. In keeping with her European heritage, Paola’s approach is to provide some good international comparisons for each category, all astutely considered from a value-for-money perspective. APOTECA also features a solid line up of half bottles, particularly handy for those going solo.

Pair your favourite bottle with delicious European-inspired food from an à la carte, chef’s or grazing menu all focused on seasonality and balance.