Bird and Beats

The enticing sight of a new bar in town. How do we get in?

Though we haven’t been yet, word on the street is that the best place to get chicken in town is Bird and Beast, a new restaurant in Central Arcade. We did, however, go to check out the even newer Bird and Beats (see what they did there?), its companion bar.

Aha! The entrance is the same as the one for Bird and Beast.

Walking in I was struck by the stylish minimalism of the place. Large dark green banquettes match the dark green walls and there are a few art deco tables sprinkled throughout. The low lighting (complete with fake candles!) and relaxed atmosphere would make it a good place for a second date, or a first date that’s going well.

Very cool.

Though it’s not described as a speakeasy, it’s got a definite speakeasy feel, and the fact that the entrance is a little tricky to find helps with that. (The entrance is on Central Road — turn left at the top of the stairs.)

In case you’re prone to setting yourself on fire, these fake candles are for you!

The choice of beers was not bad for a place that specializes in cocktails. They have their own craft lager on tap, plus a Marston’s Rye, Shipyard, and New World ale. In bottles you’ll find Tsingtao and Moretti.

5 stars for the light fixtures.

There is a DJ booth but no dance floor, so the beats just add to the cool vibe, which they’ve achieved quite well. There’s a pleasant view of Duncan Street from the first floor windows and it was quiet-ish on the Friday evening when we went, though we suspect that will change as it becomes more well-known.

So while the beer is not special enough to bring us here from very far afield, we certainly would enjoy a drink in here again, perhaps on our way to try the legendary Bird.