Yes, easily 5-stars. Authentic speakeasy in Dubbo, whatever 'authentic' is supposed to mean. I liked walking up to the entry and thinking 'maybe it's shut'; first sign it's an authentic speakeasy. Second sign was being faked out by the empty office on the landing, don't be dissuaded, just go through the unmarked door at the other end and you're in. Definitely authentic. Once inside you'll be warmly greeted and impressed by the venue. It feels like you've stepped back in time to the time of prohibition, or at least what the movies tell us prohibition was like. I think the period 1920 to 1933 was probably a lot less clean, stylish and appealing, and a lot more pre-vaccinations, pre-antibiotics and pre-work place health and safety if you get my drift. The Whisky selection was fantastic, plenty on offer in the other spirit departments too. Is it a sin to order tequila at a whisky bar? Not if you have it with pineapple juice. The bartenders knew their stuff and their spirits, making sagacious recommendations as a result. The quality of service was fantastic, well done. Not sure about the fake-leather Chesterfields in the middle of the room, no doubt a placeholder for the genuine article once The Establishment becomes well established in Dubbo. Of note was the Karaoke. Apparently our first taste of whisky at The Establishment coincided with the first trial of Karaoke in a speakeasy ever. And I mean ever. A worlds first. Dubbo's nothing if not innovative. At one point my colleague and I were the only two patrons in the room and I considered putting the question of karaoke to a vote by the patrons; I'm told we would have had the numbers to defeat the motion 'Karaoke is a good idea in a Whisky Speakeasy'. Mercifully I think The Establishment has come around to their senses on the matter too. Perhaps a Spotify list 'Songs Al Capone would have danced to' is the way to go. All in all an outstanding venue and I'll definitely be back, hence the five stars. I'm looking forward to seeing the progress and being back. I'm also looking forward to the impending dress code being implemented; two tone shoes and a three piece...
Read moreWhat a place! Initially, we did not think it would be a good fit for a large group of young people. We didn't want to not match the vibe. However, we felt right at home very quickly!! The staff are just so wonderful and friendly. You can tell they love their job! The cocktails made me genuinely appreciate a nice drink rather than just the idea of 'going out for cocktails ' , drinking something expensive,but made cheap/nasty, and feeling sick instantly. They're a work of art and our group raved about them . Even through the pain of today's hangover ! We will be back! P.s I didn't catch the name of the initial lady who served us,but both teams got smashed at soccer again this morning! One game =home early! That was a win!!! P.p.s we all lost the escape rooms... All 3 teams... But we won the night because of you...
Read moreThe Establishment Bar is one of my favourite places in Dubbo - whether it's for after work drinks, catchups with friends, birthday celebrations or simply a quiet drink on my own with a book and notepad. Here you will find class, comfort and a chilled vibe. Tenielle and her staff are the perfect hosts - welcoming, accommodating and attentive. With a carefully curated drinks menu, a selection of delicious food delivered to your lounge and an unrivalled atmosphere in the local area, I can highly recommend The...
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