Bar 100

Tradition. It cannot be bought nor recreated. It is an experience and a feeling that you cannot share with words. You have to be there. Enter Bar 100 and, like me I’m sure you’ll understand the true uniqueness of this building. Sure we weren’t here 150 years ago but stand at the main entrance and if you have a spark of imagination you can hear the Seaman’s Union arguing for an eight-hour day. Step out on to the private terrace of the VIP bar and lounge 1909 on level 4 and look past the Sydney Harbour Bridge and humbling harbour views. The First Fleet has just sailed into the harbour and is making its historic landing. Bet Arthur Phillips’ crew wished Bar 100s’ live jazz was pumping and award-winning cocktails were lining the bar. Although the feeling of tradition is instantaneous the full Bar 100 experience deserves some time.

Settle into a luxurious leather seat in The Chapel and sip a cocktail, ok maybe two. As this was originally the Mariner’s Chapel, I wonder how many Seaman starred at the glorious stain glass windows and prayed for a safe voyage or for friends lost at sea. Before this spiritual experience overwhelms us let’s finish our cocktails and wander through the main area of Bar 100.

The details of this place start to take your breath away, the cathedral high ceilings, glorious chandeliers and a 12-metre long brass bar steal your focus. I look around the room and see friends sharing after work drinks and listening to some of Sydney’s best DJs and live jazz. We are part of a sophisticated local crowd here in The Rocks.