Sir Allen Taylor & Co

For his tenth venue, Ben Sweeten – the owner of Kansas City Shuffle and Tuxedo set up shop on Oxford Street, overlooking Taylor Square.

He opened up what was once a dark space with two full walls of windows and warm, bright colours. The venue was named for the real Sir Allen Taylor, a mayor of Sydney in the early 20th century who's famous for beautifying the Darlinghurst area.

Inspired by Taylor’s own timber business, recycled Australian hardwood features prominently alongside warm greens and creamy white subway tiles. And like the venue’s previous occupant, sidewalk seating is out year round.

During the day, the venue serves a diverse brunch menu. Kansas City Shuffle’s much-loved hickory-smoked beef brisket and waffles make the cut. Leek-and-potato croquettes arrive with a chorizo ragu. There’s also two crepe options: one savoury that wraps around spiced puy lentils, lime labne and candied chili cashews; and a sweet Tahitian vanilla crepe with lemon crème fraiche, blueberry compote and mandarin sugar.

At night, finger foods come out. Bio-dynamic pumpkin arancini and polenta bites sit alongside more substantial offerings like sliders, a cheese plate, and salt-and-pepper squid.

The cocktail menu that starts at 10am. Naturally, there are Espresso Martinis. The rest of the menu showcases Australian flavours.