Monday, 8 April 2013

La La Land - Cnr Hardware and Little Lonsdale Streets

La La Land is one of those places that we all seem to have visited before at various times in our youth, usually in the wee witching hours during the latter part of a big night out and almost always with no memory of that past visit. The place is that familiar.

Set up on the first floor and some 20 yards into Hardware Street just off Lt Lonsdale Street, the space is exposed beams warehouse chic. Open space, smoking area tucked away at the back, long bar along the stretch after you walk up a flight of stairs. The two barmen look so young, the first impression that they probably own skateboards is actually matched by the reality that their skateboards are tucked away in the corner for the quick getaway when their shift ends.

White and red couches adorn the outer walls - plenty of space to sit and chill out. The large poster of a hand drawn fallen starlet next to the bar highlights that Happy Hour in fact runs for FOUR hours from 4pm and single shot spirits are $5 during this time. Another hook to attract the income strapped university crowd.

The drinks on offer are respectable though there isn't anything in the way of finger food beyond crisps and nuts which effectively means our usual substitute dinner to line stomachs against the ravages of hardcore cocktails is not an option.  Still, everyone seems happy enough with the drinks on offer, the ambience, and the early evening Autumn air wafting in through the open windows.

VERDICT: All in all, recommended, especially for a casual after work drink or a casual late night interlude.