Cocktails - We'll tell you where to go!

In every community, certain local treasures capture the hearts of locals and visitors alike. These delights often spark inquiries at our Visitor Information Centre and ignite lively discussions on our local social media pages.

We tell it all in our “We’ll tell you where to go!” series. This is the second article in the series, and we dedicate it to Cocktails, and just in time for Summer catch up drinks!

Here’s a local’s guide to the top spots where you can enjoy a cocktail (or two!) and soak in the beauty of this picturesque region.

Cheers to that!

CocktailRichmond

ARKbar at Richmond Club - With views overlooking the bowling greens, the Richmond Lowlands and beyond, the ARKbar (and the Sportsdeck too) is a popular place to meet with friends and family for drinks. Enjoy a selection of share dishes available and indulge with one of their signature cocktails. Check out their what's on page for live entertainment and specials.

RG McGees - RG's is a traditional pub that's been recently renovated has broad appeal & plenty of varied spaces for drinks catch ups. The NEW Courtyard has Cabanas (which are heated or cooled depending on the season) and are an ideal spot to catch up over a cocktail.  There are $10 house cocktails 7pm to 9pm on Friday and Saturday Nights. They have cocktail carafes so the whole group can try each option. During the summer they even have frozen "slushie" cocktails. Run, don't walk!

Richmond Inn - Another fantastic, renovated pub that offers cocktails either by glass or by the jug, so you can try a few different cocktails among a group of friends without overindulging. Our tip here - the Sangria!

Barrels & Ashes - Barrels & Ashes presents a creative and unique cocktail menu, but their skilled mixologists and well stocked bar can prepare any cocktail (or mocktail) to your liking, even collaborating with you to design a custom creation you'll adore.  The charming 1800s building boasts indoor seating as well as a sunlit courtyard both perfect for drinks with friends. Long lunches are an option with an all-day kitchen. Check out their socials for live music nights.

Oris Bar doorWindsor

Ori's Bar - The vibe at Ori's is intimate and relaxed but with just the right amount of style and energy to keep things exciting. What really sets Ori's apart, though, is the friendly, authentic and down-to-earth feel of the great service. Whether you’re after a classic like a Mojito or something a little more adventurous, Ori's has got you covered.

Luxe Bar - This cozy yet stylish gem is where mixology artistry meets the rich warmth of whiskey and the irresistible charm of tapas. Luxe’s handcrafted cocktails (and mocktails) are a hit, featuring everything from inventive, bold blends to timeless classics that never disappoint. And what better way to complement your drinks than with their mouthwatering tapas? If tapas aren't your thing, there’s also a full mains and dessert menu available. While bookings are recommended, they’re not essential.

The Church Bar - The supplier list for the cocktail menu reads like a local "who's who” in the industry.  With local champions like Karu Distillery and Wild Hibiscus Co. being referenced you know you'll be in for a real treat!  The virgin cocktails here aren't to be sneezed at either - they are just as much fun and with all the bling of the real deal.

North Richmond

cocktail at Butlers Pantry

Butlers Pantry Café, Restaurant and Bar - Brought to you by the team behind The Blonde Butler, The Butlers Pantry doesn't mess around when it comes to their cocktails menu. The venue is an architectural triumph, integrating the beauty of its natural surroundings with Sandstone, Ash timber cladding, matte black steel, and Oak glulam rafters. There's extensive outdoor area and balcony, offering sweeping vistas of Redbank Lake. Who could argue with happy hour 3 - 6pm on Fridays and Saturdays. If I did want to argue I'd point out that's actually happy hours!  Shh, I won’t tell, no arguments from me.

The Beaumont Cocktail Bar- (just inside North Richmond Panthers). Open Friday and Saturday nights the Beaumont is a brilliantly unexpected oasis of elegance and sophistication. Once through the doors, you are transported to the sights and feels of a trendy inner-city bar right here in the Hawkesbury. There’s a wide range of cocktails, mocktails, classics which accompany  the house designed signatures on the "to do list". The tapas menu will keep any hunger at bay or get organised in advance and book a cheese tower or charcuterie board.

Kurrajong

Schembre’s – Tapas and Cocktails come together with a great view at Schembre’s. The cocktail menu starts with the expected classics (including mocktails) and evolves into their signature recipes, so you can be safe or adventurous. My tip – be adventurous and try a signature! Hats off to the venue for including how many standard drinks in each cocktail, great for those who like to count their alcohol intake.

Archibald Hotel – Cocktails with a view! Un-disputatively the best view in the Hawkesbury from “The Heights”. We dare you to dispute it with the bar tender. It's the perfect place to sip and unwind with mates. Indoor and outdoor seating for your catchup, enjoy the sunset, and sip on a refreshing cocktail. There’s a solid pub menu covering all bases if you get hungry.

three people enjoying cocktailVineyard

The Vineyard Hotel – You’ll find a mix of signature and classic cocktails on the menu at this rapidly growing and evolving venue. Whether it’s in the traditional “Tormo Bar”, on “The Lawn”, in the beer garden or in the bistro with a meal, don’t overlook this venue for a get together with cocktails. Check out their what’s on for upcoming entertainment and big name shows.

We wish you all the best in your cocktail adventures! Have we missed your favourite? What local treasure should we help you find next? Let us know!

Cheers!

Image  credit  - Vineyard Hotel