As a resident of Erskineville and a lover of cocktails, the #HelloHoward event was right up my alley. After a long wait, the Rose of Australia finally launched Erskineville’s newest watering hole, Howard’s Cantina & Cocktail Bar with their event #HelloHoward. I brought along a fellow writer and lover of cocktails to welcome Howard’s Cantina to Sydney’s food blogger space.
Food selections on the night of the #HelloHoward launch
The Space
Howard’s is a gorgeous spot. The Rose already is one of the beloved establishments in Erskineville, with its quirky decor and street art vibes. Howard’s brings this up a notch and adds a touch of elegance and class. The old world meets the new with the slight steampunk vibes at work. The fireplace is stacked with vintage Shakespearean classics, adorned with Old World chandeliers and exposed brick. This is juxtaposed with a hint of the modern with additions of neon red art sign, funky furniture, and DJ.
Has the Mona Lisa ever looked better?
The Event
#HelloHoward was an afternoon of showcasing Howard’s many attractive attributes. Head Chef Chris Bell presented items from the sharing style menu. Laying them out for all the food bloggers and photographers to get that perfect #instafood pic.
Chef Chris Bell and Scott Leach owner and publican
Who is Howard?
Howard’s is named for the late Leach family patriarch, who bought the landmark hotel 21 years ago. The Rose is now run and managed by his son and publican, Scott Leach. The space reflects his father’s spirit, bringing together vibrant conversations with good food and drink to the people of the Inner West.
The Drinks
It wouldn’t be a cocktail bar without stellar cocktails. The bar served a smattering of local and national craft beers, wines, and two very special cocktails. There was a smoked negroni, and an eye-turning shiraz whisky sour. Each elegantly presented by the dashing barmen with flair. The negroni featured a smoke garnish made from hickory chips soaked in Grand Marnier, for a smokey zesty twist on the classic cocktail. The whisky sour looked as good as it tasted with a dash of Barossa Shiraz finishing off the traditional sour mash, egg white and fresh lemon.
Where will your happily ever after be? Mine’s at Howard’s Cantina
Howard’s promises to be the Inner West’s new go-to cocktail spot. Their launch rolls out over two phases with the new cocktail menu available from Thursday 4th May and the cantina launching from Thursday 11 May.
– Orlaith
F&B Specialist. Usually seen with a flat white in hand or on her way to a craft beer. Needs to stop buying books and start reading them.
Howard’s Cantina in The Rose of Australia
1 Swanson St
Erskineville NSW
www.roseofaustralia.com
