A new Asian-inspired laneway bar has opened today just in time for the warmer weather.
Gypsy Dragon Laneway Bar is nestled in Topham Mall just off Waymouth Street, alongside its fellow restaurant Kangkong and it is a seriously cool little space.
With a promise of live music, DJs and a strong focus on craft beer and premium spirits, Gypsy Dragon guarantees to deliver a cranking summer vibe.
“We’ve added a custom-made outdoor bar, plenty of cosy seating and we offer wallet friendly food made in the Kangkong kitchen which is modified so it’s easy to eat as bar food,” co-owner Robert Parsons said.
But all eyes are on the amazing artwork that lines the entire outside wall of the bar and the pillar at the entrance.
“We commissioned local artist Fredrico Roldan to create our signature graffiti wall, featuring a dragon and a Geisha”, the other co-owner, Ron Kohli said.
“It means the graffiti wall is not only a talking point, but a way of supporting local art in all its many forms, something we encourage”, he said.
SUCH TALENT, MUCH FIRE TWIRL
Launching to the media this week, Gypsy Dragon offered VIP guests a night of fabulous food, flowing beverages and entertainment with an impressive fire-twirling performance.
Some of our favourite canapés included delicious Korean chicken, crispy duck-filled spring rolls and generous servings of oysters.
And it would have been downright rude not to try the mouthwatering Vietnamese style espresso martini! Being a bubble tea, espresso martini hybrid, the cocktail was a unique experience for all and, for someone who isn’t particularly a coffee drinker (weird right?), it was absolutely delectable!
The impressive pipe-work under the bar did not go unnoticed either.
Cricketers Arms Summer Ale, Asahi Super Dry, Somersby Apple Cider and Coopers Sparking Ale are some of the tap beers Gypsy Dragon will be serving. And, of course, a great selection of wine will be available by the glass or by the bottle.
I’LL HAVE 12 THANKS!
You can never go wrong with bar snacks at the ready, and some of Gypsy Dragon’s grazing options will include the likes of crispy local chilli salt squid, steamed chicken dumplings, local king fish sashimi, steamed Harvey Bay scallops and tofu and sweet potato curry puffs.
And where do I sign up for the Ferrero Rocher spring roll with orange coulis? *heavy breathing*
The staff were all super friendly and it was obvious they were proud of owners Ron and Robert’s efficient use of an otherwise deserted laneway. Hospitality can make you bitter, but they were having a great time!
Having opened earlier this year, neighbouring restaurant Kankong is expected to become even more popular with the recent redevelopment of Topham Mall.
Gypsy Dragon Laneway Bar really does evoke a sense of summer bliss under the glowing lanterns and is no doubt a great location for after work drinks.
It will be open from midday on Tuesdays through to Saturdays and will close at 1am on Fridays and Saturdays after giving the people what they want – house tunes and cocktails with an Asian-inspired twist. Hope to see you there!
Image credit: Gypsy Dragon Facebook Page
