Cocktails, cheese, charcuterie, and caviar launched the newest addition to Poodle’s bar and bistro — the Poodle Upstairs cocktail lounge.
The décor has a touch of art deco and the menu is an elevated offering of the bistro downstairs. The owners envision the venue as a place you could spend all day — meeting a friend for champagne and oysters at the bar, indulging in a full meal at the bistro, drinking jugs of beer on the patio, and retiring for cocktails and caviar upstairs. 
The upstairs food menu is currently limited to luxe bites designed to pair with cocktails, including French cheeses, house-made charcuterie, and tinned European fish. If you need help narrowing down the options, the brie is to die-for and if you’re planning a private function the buckwheat crumpets topped with kefir cream and caviar are a delight. Head chef Josh Fry’s pedigree includes time at Marion and Cumulus Inc, so you know you’re capable hands. 
The drinks menu features both classic and signature cocktails. With winter just around the corner, we suggest cosying up by the fireplace with a ‘Masterpiece’ in hand. Made with Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, Bulleit Rye and Angostura bitters, this masterpiece isn’t just for the walls. On warmer days, the ‘Rosy Cheeks’ cocktail with Vida, Aperol, lime, and rosemary syrup is a more refreshing option. 
The Poodle Upstairs is walk ups only. We suggest you treat yourself to the thrill of a off-the-cuff night out at a cocktail bar with a focus on quality ingredients. Grab a seat at the bar and chat to the knowledgeable staff or settle in next to the retro drinks trolley and take in a leafy view of Gertrude Street.
– Jenny
Jenny S. is an event adventurer who is spending her time sampling craft beers, sipping creative cocktails, and dreaming about using her passport to travel internationally (and not just when she’s crossing the Yarra).
Poodle Upstairs
81-83 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy
Open Fridays and Saturdays
6pm until 1am
Walk-ins only
https://poodlefitzroy.com.au/
