Softbelly
Editorial
Softbelly has undergone quite the transformation in recent months. Bought out by new management, the bar has lost the dodgy characters and been renovated throughout. What you're left with is a cosy little spot in the city centre, with just the right amount of back alley ??edge'. The new Softbelly certainly has a unique design aesthetic. The front room is all antique Italian couches, complimented with large religious paintings and murals. There's no apparent reason for this, but it does offset the more traditional bar decor nicely, while giving the place a certain kitsch appeal.
As you move towards the back of the venue, the Italian furniture makes way for a mish-mash of retro armchairs, vintage lamps and a couple of pool tables. During the day it's all quite dimly lit and brings to mind something out of Lock Stock and Two Smoking Barrels. Conveniently, all the alcohol on offer comes in at the same price - $7. That covers your beers, spirits and wines. Get in there for happy hour (5-7pm) and the price drops to an inebriating $5. There are no cocktails to speak off, but at $5 per gin and tonic, you can't really complain.
Bottom line: if you're looking for a friendly bar with lots of personality and just a hint of back alley action, then Softbelly comes recommended. It's not rewriting the book, but it has charm, dimly lit corners and a certain cinematic appeal.
Mikolai, October 2008
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