Located in Sydney’s Darlinghurst, the space that used to house the iconic Victoria Room has been reimagined as a California-style country club.
The Darlo Country Club is the result of the continued partnership between Lobo Plantation’s Michael Hwang and Eddie Levy and The Island’s Adam Abrams and Julian Tobias. Building on the success of their winter pop-up bar, The Chalet, which was in the same space, the team have transformed the bar into a permanent high volume cocktail bar and diner.
With cocktails designed by Julius Yates, of Lobo Plantation, the menu features “elegant classics and originals with a touch of theatre”. In terms of theatre, Yates has focused on employing all the senses with visual stimulus through flames and smoke, as well as “intense smells” for olfactory gratification.
Highlights from the cocktail list include: The Bubbarita – a take on the margarita with bubble-gum infused tequila, Blue Curacao, lime juice, a grape citrus foam and an orange blossom flame; The Don – an homage to the godfather of Tiki with Pampero Especial, cherry puree, pineapple juice, passionfruit puree, lemon juice, ginger syrup and mint; and The Eton Fizz (pictured) – the liquid equivalent of an Eton Mess with Tanqueray, strawberry shrub, lemon juice, thyme syrup, egg white and a dash of soda.
The food menu is classic brasserie-style with a signature lobster and truffle mac and cheese, kingfish ceviche, and sliced scotch fillet with chimichurri.
The interior space has been converted to make the most of the high ceilings with an imposing six-foot high custom chandelier installed.
Drawing inspiration from actual country clubs, call buttons have been installed on the six bespoke banquettes. Additionally, there are areas for smaller groups, as well as exclusive function spaces for up to 250 guests.