The best hotels are those specifically connected to place. The connection might come from iconic views or location but, even more effectively, through consciously engaging with the local culture. At Curious, the subterranean cocktail bar at W Melbourne, the connection to place is decisively cultural. By tapping into some of the city’s strengths – its renowned bar scene, the passion for design and hidden locations, the strong service culture – Curious is a hotel bar that eschews the generic for a specifically Melburnian sense of place.
There’s also an excellent sense of the theatrical at Curious, fitting for a bar that takes its cues from Alice in Wonderland. Down a flight of steps from the hotel lobby, a smartly dressed staff member waits in front of a velvet curtain to greet and then escort you into the purposefully discombobulating interior featuring a geometric tangle of hefty timber beams framing the room’s curve. Moody lighting, rabbit statuary, an undulating blue velvet banquette and a huge mirror down one end all emphasise the feeling of entering a glamorous, mysterious netherworld.
It doesn’t stop there. The house cocktail program here leans theatrical too with playful, skilfully constructed drinks that might incorporate smoke, flame and liquid nitrogen, ingredients that make the tongue tingle, drinks that take the form of jelly or soft serve or, as with the Margarita-like 5pm Supplement, arrive accompanied by boxes of “pills” that allow you to spice things up with your preferred level of chilli.
Given the talent required to make these drinks, it’s not surprising that those preferring a more classic approach are well served too, whether it’s a Martini, a Vesper or a Hanky Panky you’re thirsting for. Add some clever mocktails and there’s a little of something for everybody.
Service is a highlight and part of the reason Curious attracts as many locals as it does hotel guests. Relaxed and friendly but equally expert in guiding people through the often-bonkers cocktail menu, the floor staff and bartenders are across the entire drinks list that includes some heavy-hitting Champagne from renowned houses, a smart list of Old and New World wines and a separate menu of Boilermakers.
What really makes Curious tick is how comfortably, creatively and confidently it holds its place within Melbourne’s excellent bar culture. Sure, it’s a great hotel bar but it’s also just a great bar.
All winners in the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards have been determined by Gourmet Traveller editor David Meagher, deputy editor Ceri David and digital editor Georgia Condon. We also sought input from our team of luxury food and travel industry experts including our Victoria state editor Michael Harden, Queensland state editor Elliot Baker, New South Wales state editor Alexandra Carlton and travel writer Carrie Hutchinson.
How we pick the Gourmet Traveller Hotel and Travel Awards winners
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