Last Sunday was The Victoria Room's last night of trading. It closed quietly, with no comment offered from owner Mike Manassen. However, it won’t stay empty long. The landlord’s spokesperson has said a sale is in process, with the new tenants expected to move in in the next few weeks.

Apart from the opulent decor and boozy high teas, The Victoria Room was well known for hosting some of the city’s best bartenders over the years. Most recently, Rowan Furlong won a challenge in the Diageo Reserve World Class Australian finals. "It's sad to see it go. It's had so many of the greats pass through it and I was glad to to be a part of it," says Furlong. We’ll be keen to see where the talented bartender will be shaking cocktails next.

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