Unknown outside of of Australia, Justin Hemmes is a literal cult icon within Sydney known for his hotspot bars like Tank and Hemmesphere as well as the Establishment Hotel. The Ivy is a bit of a local anomaly, having battles holy war with local liquor authorities that held up it's opening due to "anti-social" drinking behavior at several of Hemmes' properties. The beaurocratic ruckus alone makes you want to queue up and just beg to get in, and believe us it's worth the effort. The Ivy does not disappoint. It's a massive multi purpose venue of bars, lounges, restaurants and ultra-exclusive 2-room boutique hotel set to debut later in the year.
Tips
If arriving on a weekend, try to score a reservation at Mad Cow with its haute New York-inspired detailing and menu by Peter Boyle. Otherwise expect a decent wait outside behind the wall of 7-foot bouncers formerly of The Establishment.
Last Word
The Ivy took a staggering seven years to complete, offering three restaurants, four bars, cocktail lounge and live music venue set in the center of downtown Sydney. The space mixes lofty architectural elements with a center courtyard and bright-white furnishings that capture the youthful sex appeal of Sydney design. Bar choices include The Patio with its outdoor patio and spectacular spiral staircase, Ivy Bar that’s the center of all the action overlooking the Terrace Bar with its chic cabanas and multi-level design.
