“The Look: Contemporary simplicity. Cube Ottomans, cylindrical side tables and a long banquette out front, while large blackboards serve as handy memory aids if you’re inclined to forget the food and drink specials.

The outside story : Open air or smoking space(depending on how you look at it) is available in the covered courtyard at the rear of the bar. : Although there’s a lot of choice in the drinks’ department, Mumbler keeps it manageable. There’s a concise but considered wine list and a decent selection of Aussie boutique brews by the bottle and on tap, including Matilda Bay and Mountain Goat. The cocktail list leans towards the classics.

To eat: More adventurous than your average bar menu, dishes include lemon pepper calamari with watermelon and cucumber salsa; wasabi-pea coated chicken strips; and tandoori lamb meatballs.

Best for: Casual drinks that cover all bases.

By the DeckOfSecrets team.