Small Bars.

Taken from the Western Australian Department Racing, Gaming and Liquor, a small bar “is a type of hotel licence that permits the licensee to sell and supply liquor for consumption on premises only, to no more than 120 patrons at any one time”. Essentially it’s the inverse of large establishments, the focus is turned to more of a ‘cosy’ atmosphere perhaps something that could foster repour with the bar owner. And after all, we all want to know people behind the bar.

This brings me to the classic example of a small bar I stumbled into down a little alleyway in Perth. Alda’s is a small bar/ cafe hidden tucked down Wolfe lane. The semi industrial and modern decor work well to suggest something impromptu. The drinks list features some well selected vodkas, gins and aperitifs. Beers are not centre stage, though there they are reasonably priced and more or less mainstream boutique. Wines are quite well selected though I’d like to see something more experiment and edgy. It’s a  small bar that functions well as a cafe, or a glass-of-wine-sit-down affair. It’s a bit sedate for anything other than a casual chinwag.  Another small bar is due to open very soon which will make bar hopping a better experience.

Alda’s. Wolf Lane (off Murray St) Perth. Look for the iron gates.