Redcape Hospitality is set to launch a bold new tiki-inspired bar and lounge called Happy Talk, located upstairs at the Darlinghurst’s Courthouse Hotel’s Judgment Bar.
Opening tomorrow 5 July, Happy Talk is a retro-style bar inspired by seaside kitsch and tropical nostalgia, complete with slushies, banana hot sauce, and towering cocktail garnishes.
Behind the project are Redcape’s general manager of bars, Paul Mant, and Ben Turner, general manager of food; both bringing a wealth of knowledge and energy to the Sydney nightlife precinct.
The drinks list brings tiki classics like the Big Island Oahu Dark and Stormy, Three Headed Zombie, and Wrong Island Iced Tea; while the food menu serves up snacks like firecracker coconut prawns and pork and pineapple skewers.
Big Island Oahu Dark & Stormy. Image supplied. 
Menu Platter. Image supplied. 
Happy Talk Mai Tai. Image supplied. 
Big Island Oahu Dark & Stormy. Image supplied. 
Menu Platter. Image supplied. 
Happy Talk Bar. Image supplied. 
Happy Talk Bar. Image supplied. 
Happy Talk Bar. Image supplied. 
Happy Talk Bar. Image supplied.
Mant said: “Happy Talk is cheeky, it’s colourful. No ego, just a great time. We wanted to create something fun that feels a little unexpected for Oxford Street.”
The venue’s styling has been brought to life by Shantala Mack, who’s transformed the former Judgment Bar into a warm, layered mix of salvaged textures, vintage surf shack touches, and nostalgic flair.
Happy Talk is part of a broader revival across Taylor Square’s Courthouse Hotel and neighbouring Kinselas Hotel, both operated by Redcape Hospitality.
Earlier this month, Courthouse launched 13 newly styled accommodation rooms, in the heart of Darlinghurst.
Kinselas Hotel is also undergoing a phased refresh, with Turner nodding to Redcape’s contribution to growing interest in the area.
“Taylor Square is having a bit of a renaissance. The energy’s shifting, and we’re excited to be part of it. Happy Talk is one of our contributions to bringing the buzz back.”
Hear about the crucial role of food and beverage offerings at the Pub Leaders Summit!
Ben Turner is a highly respected hospitality leader with over 30 years’ experience, from Michelin-starred kitchens in London to Head Chef at Aria in Sydney. As group executive chef at Solotel, he elevated culinary standards across multiple venues. Now general manager of food at Redcape Hospitality, Ben focuses on consistency, quality, and team development. At the Pub Leaders Summit on Monday 21 July, Turner will discuss trends and new food and beverage opportunities in 2025 and beyond