By Stefanie Collins, editor bars&clubs
Melbourne’s iconic cocktail bar Black Pearl has taken out the Best International High Volume Cocktail Bar award at the Spirited Awards in New Orleans.
Awarded to the bar’s upstairs venue, known as The Attic, members of the Black Pearl team, including Fred Siggins, were on hand to accept the award, which was presented at a ceremony during the Tales of the Cocktail event in the US.
The Spirited Awards are arguably the most high profile bar awards in the world, with over 2000 venues and bartenders from around the world nominated for awards.
Owner Tash Conte was understandably elated, taking to social media to thank her staff and her patrons.
“A little bar in Fitzroy Melbourne called Black Pearl / the Attic just won Best international High Volume Cocktail bar at Tales of the Cocktail in New Orleans! Ten crazy talented bartenders that work here made that possible! Ten kids that give me more than we could ask on a daily basis and I am so proud that the world gets to see now what I've always known! Thanking patrons, friends and family for your ongoing support and love! It is deeply felt! Holy crap! OMG.”
The Attic was also up against another classic Melbourne establishment, Eau de Vie, in the same category. While Sydney whisky venue, The Baxter Inn, missed out on the award for World’s Best Spirits Selection.