The word 'icon' is way too often overused, but there’s no other way to describe the legendary venue that is Black Pearl, so happy birthday to a true one! The Fitzroy bar is preparing to blow out the candles after a glorious 21-year run of award-winning cocktails, community and success on the local and world stages – and owner Tash Conte is inviting you to celebrate.
Partake in the festivities at this epic "party of the ages" on August 13 with a special bar takeover led by one of the UK’s most celebrated cocktail legends, Iain MacPherson. MacPherson, the founder of renowned Edinburgh cocktail bar Panda and Sons, will be mixing bevvies from 8pm, offering Melburnians a rare opportunity to try his wildly inventive and internationally renowned creations. And on August 14, MacPherson will also be hosting an exclusive masterclass where attendees will be among the first to learn about his secret recipes as he shares them for the first time.
Macpherson is currently listed among the world’s top 50 most influential bar personalities and was recently crowned Innovator of the Year by Class magazine. His footprint on the scene includes the creation of world-first mixology techniques like 'switching' (replacing the water content of spirits with other liquids) and 'sous pression' (ultra-low temperature freeze infusion). For aspiring mixologists and cocktail fanatics alike, the anniversary program is a no-brainer.
“There is too much to say after 21 years,” commented Conte. “I can’t wait to see everyone’s face and to celebrate, thanks for all your love and support possums.”
Charlie Ainsbury, the senior bar consultant at Proof Creative noted: “It's the Black Pearl. No matter what I write from here, it will never do justice to what it's become and what it means to me and so many other people around the world. I know these posts can get emotional but with a bar like this, it can only be.”
From global financial crises to intermittent lockdowns, it hasn’t exactly been the easiest run for Melbourne’s tireless hospo legends. But since its fresh-faced emergence in the early 2000s cocktail revolution through to its growing stack of international awards over the years, little family-run Black Pearl has prevailed and rewarded its loyal throngs of thirsty cocktail swillers with an exceptional and passion-led experience every time.
It’s a treasured pocket on Brunswick Street where Melburnians can delight in a taste of some of the most sophisticated drinks born of global and historical cocktail culture, crafted by a bar team unmatched in their knowledge and commitment to perfection. As a result, the team have won reams of various accolades over the years, including Bar Team of the Year at the 2022 Australian Liquor Industry Awards (where Conte also won Bar Manager of the Year).
Across the two-day celebration, expect Black Pearl’s signature A-class service, a dash of MacPherson’s creative flair, and as a special touch, disco balls and panda ears for all! Limited tickets to Macpherson’s masterclass can be purchased here.