Walking into Jolene’s is as close as you’ll get to Nashville without leaving Sydney. Owned and operated by hospitality veterans Simon and Lucille Rose-Hopkins, this place is a subterranean haven for Americana aficionados, inspired by the husband and wife team’s travels to the United States.

Behind the bar is a clutch of classic whiskey and bourbon bottles, from Jack Daniels to Rebel 100 and beyond. Decor sourced from Tennessee and Texas (a Buc-ee’s bobblehead; handmade posters) really lassos in that authentic southern feel. Deep-red leather seating scattered around the stage is where you can hook into American-style dishes while catching some live country and rock’n’roll tunes.

You can’t go wrong with Jolene’s pulled pork sandwich, filled with liquid cheese, slaw and smoky barbeque sauce and served with corn chips on the side. Or go for a cheeky bar snack – like a basket of tater tots with chicken salt and ketchup.

The stars and stripes extend to the cocktail list, with signatures like the Coyote Ugly (vodka, apple, passionfruit, agave syrup) joining spicy Margs, Long Island Iced Teas and other American classics. We also love the boozy slushies, and the focus on all-time whiskey cocktails: sours, Old Fashioneds, you name it.