By Sacha Delfosse
One of
The 120-capacity venue opened its doors eight weeks ago on the Northbridge strip that is home to other notable
Mechanics' Institute boasts one of the biggest collections of American whiskey in
"We have six cocktails on our list but they change daily and they are priced from $12 to $17. It has been our biggest focus point, our cocktails are priced for people to give them a try," said bar manager Ben Tua.
"At least 40 per cent of our sales are cocktails. Since we opened we have smashed out a lot of cocktails, no one is doing more cocktails than us in
The Mechanics' Institute moniker is inspired by the colonial educational hubs of the same name that were a place of "gathering and educating", according to Tua, who says the bar will encourage drinkers to try new things where appropriate.
"We are here to address people the best way we can, there is no set way of doing that, some people might want to be educated on what they are drinking, others are just looking for friendly service," Tua said.
And the talented bar team that includes Tom Kearney, Tim Laferla, Dimitri Rtshiladze and Jimmy Kerr is more than equipped to teach people more about different spirits and cocktails if they wish to expand their knowledge.
Mechanics' Institute is open Monday to Saturday from midday to midnight and Sunday from midday to 10pm