Kings

Kings is moody disco bar Queens' counterpart – an airy, 1980s LA-inspired cocktail bar in the space in California Lane previously occupied by The Stand.

While the two venues are a couple of doors down from each other and hold a similar ethos of inclusivity and good vibes, the aesthetics are starkly different. For Kings, it’s alfresco cocktails; palm trees; bright blue, pink and purple neons; and a summer-all-year-round atmosphere – a world away from the glam, brooding Queens.

Despite their differences, the idea was to have two venues working together to accommodate a range of customers and events. The Kings space is equipped with a built-in stage and a 90-person capacity, which makes it prime for live events. DJs, live music, drag queens, queer events and the annual Big Sound music industry conference all fit the bill here.

The drinks list has an expansive cocktail selection, which includes the gin-based Harry Styles-inspired Watermelon Sugar 003 also found at Queens. On the petite wine list, you might find a pinot noir pet-nat, a rosé and a cabernet merlot among others – all made with the help of an unnamed Hunter Valley winery.

While drinks are the focus, the food menu is no after-thought. Possible options range from a roasted cauliflower with chilli oil, fresh mint and confit garlic yoghurt, to po boys and tacos with fillings of fried chicken, cabbage, carrot, mayo and pickles, and deep-fried prawns, lettuce, tomato and chipotle.