When you live in North Bondi slash Rose Bay like me, you don’t just cross through the Jersey Shore summer crowd of Middle Bondi for any old bar. But you do when it’s The Anchor – a cool little port in South Bondi and our new hang.
Owned by Steve Wasley (of Bondi Massive café three doors up), Jon Laurenson, Sam Cockle and Georgia Bennett, The Anchor Bar and Restaurant isn’t just another tapas joint with a bunch of cool dudes behind the bar and in the kitchen.
Zac Pauling, previously of Porteño in Surry Hills, Pink Salt in Double Bay and the prestigious Vue de Monde in Melbourne, has taken on the role of Head Chef in the restaurant’s open kitchen. His menu caters for Bondi hipster types and the health-conscious, with all produce sourced from sustainable suppliers.
Hugh Payten-Smith has moved on from his previous gig at The Rum Diaries to run the bar and is an ambassador for Sailor Jerry rum, making cocktails with love, affection and a little bit of malice. Try their signature drink, the eye-watering guava and jalapeño infused margarita ‘The Machete’, and one of the best martinis in town.
The staff uniform is anything with an anchor on it and we’re guessing that includes skin. Either they’re getting salary sacrificed anchor tatts or the pirate theme has lured all the sailors in the area – whatever the case, we’re loving their commitment.
Where:
The Anchor Bar & Restaurant
8 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach
02 8084 3145
When:
Tuesday to Friday 4.30pm ‘til late
Saturday & Sunday 12.30pm ‘til late
(Lunch bookings only)
