They say the only thing you need to get a date is another date, and the same thing goes for small bars. Once you’ve got one it won’t be long before there’s a collection of pocket-sized licensed establishments lining the streets. Don’t believe us? Just look at Redfern. So far we’ve got a wine bar, gin bar, and five-star art bar, not to mention two casual cocktail spots and somewhere to sing sea shanties. And now they can add a dedicated craft beer saloon to the list.
The Angry Pirate has set sail for calmer waters and in its place you’ll now find the Noble Hops. It’s a stripped back, lo-fi neighbourhood haunt where the love of beer is what binds their customers. Seriously, they have wine available but they don’t even put it on the list – all that page space is reserved for the 40+ craft brews by the bottle. Up above the bar on the menu board is where you’ll find the current tap list, and don’t expect those ten beers to be run of the mill – the Noble Hops is owned by a home-brew fanatic we’re told, and so there’s no space for mediocre beverages.
On our visit there is a South Australian pale ale and a locally brewed lager, but that’s all the run up you get before you move onto the big hitters. Like your beers so bitter and hoppy it feels like you’ve licked a tyre? You will experience no buyer's remorse after a glass of the Kaiju Compendium Monastic red IPA. For something that is more restrained in its approach go for the beautifully balanced tasty malts in the milk stout from Exit Brewing in Victoria. Also be careful when ordering: they list ABV first, not price.
If beer isn’t really your jam but you dig the clean brick walls, simple bench seating arrangement (not ideal for big groups) and ’50s and ’60s rock’n’roll playlist, you’ll want to pay close attention to the liquor shelf. They’ve got a very enticing collection of whiskies, ryes and bourbons that’ll empty your wallet as fast as it fills your blood with liquid sunshine.
It seems like to open a bar in Redfern you need a clear point of expertise that sets you apart from the pack. But this also helps you fit in – everyone contributes. Redfern has the right place for any thirst, so the system is clearly working.