The Light Brigade Bistro

The look: Newly refurbished and decorated in 1930s Art Deco style, in keeping with the original design of this landmark hotel. Polished wooden floors and stark white walls are complemented by quirky black and white candy-striped furniture and a faux black Elk head for fun.
The soundtrack: Cocktail and jazz music on weeknights with a more upbeat groove on weekends.
Signature drink: The Passionfruit Foam ($16) is a refreshing summer cocktail created with passionfruit sorbet, lemon butter, Belvedere Pomarancza and limoncello, finished with passionfruit and vanilla foam.
Hungry?: See if you can devour a dry aged 400g rib eye on the bone with portobello mushrooms and chimichurri ($45).
Just snacking?: Try the freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters, served natural or with lemon ($18/$36).
Best for: being a one-stop shop. You can comfortably meet family, friends or a hot new romantic prospect here for a quiet few drinks.
Wow factor: The mouth-watering desserts. Get the Valrhona chocolate custard with Frangelico cream and lime syrup ($14).
If this bar were a movie star it would be: Sarah-Jessica Parker – quirky, cool and unexpected.

By Kathy Buchanan

Address: Level 1, 2A Oxford Street, Woollahra (Entry via the corner of Jersey Road and Melrose Lane)
Phone: 9357 0815
Web: www.lightbrigade.com.au
Open: Tuesday - Saturday