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RA

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For an occasion with extra polish.

Editorial


Attached to another of Melbourne's significantly upmarket watering holes, Collins Quarter, RA attracts the well-heeled folk who tend to follow the latest and greatest on offer by one of Melbourne's better regarded cocktailists, Vernon Chalker. Responsible for seriously great bars such as Madame Brussels, Gin Palace, Order of Melbourne and Double Happiness, Mr. Chalker now adds RA (and Collins Quarter) to his impressive list of cocktailier conquests. You will find RA in Pink Alley, which is off Little Collins Street, just west of Exhibition Street. A little off the beaten track for even the most seasoned laneway dwellers but worthy of the trek, particularly if your hiking boots are by Jimmy Choo.

RA boasts a fine selection of champagnes, top shelf classic cocktails and a discerning wine list. Nibbles and snacks can be ordered from the Collins Quarter kitchen (we're talking caviar, oysters, foie gras) delivered by smart looking, efficient and charming staff. Friday nights can be hairy as one tries to negotiate the after-work hordes that come in crush-loads, but most other nights, a much more amiable atmosphere allows you to kick back in style. The main lounge sits within a louvre-glass walled box that contains a variety of split level nooks, elevated to overlook a beautiful magnolia tree that is the central focus of an internal courtyard. All in all, RA is a special place for a special occasion. Whether you drop in for a pre or post-theatre drink or a long haul sit-in, RA is worth a bit of extra polish on your shoes.

Brenton Geyer, May 2010

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Dave
November 01, 2010


Vernon Chalker doesn't own Double Happiness.

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