The Soda Factory is an appealing slice of Americana hidden away in Sydney's Surrey Hills, a location that legitimately might take some finding. The sign outside advertises Bobby's Boss Dogs, which serves a tantalizing array of handcrafted hot dogs that straddle the line between comfort food and gastronomic cuisine. Pull on the handle of a fake antique Coke machine and you've found the secret entrance to The Soda Factory. The cocktail bar is the focus here and offers a unique blend of entertaining elements and custom treats. Authentic soda fountain selections and ice cream desserts will satisfy any sweet tooth. Alcohol and spirits emphasize familiar classics, prepared with a little extra zing that fits the overall theme. The menu is American diner food favorites, including the aforementioned hot dogs from Bobby's. Fried chicken, mac & cheese, chili cheese fries: it's easy to forget you're down under, and not in a rocking Midwest diner circa 1958.
Tips
Who needs a time machine when there's The Soda Factory, Sydney's one and only paean to the best that 1950s America has to offer: lively entertainment, tasty soda fountain treats, and strong drinks in large amounts.
Last Word
Entertainment is provided by an eclectic mix of live performers, bands, and DJs, with an emphasis on funk, R&B, and period classics. The crowd is lively and young, with a definite affinity for social media. There's plenty of room on the dance floor to find out just what a real sock hop was like.
