Open Tue–Sun from 5pm · Offline poker lounge from 7pm · 18+ patrons only

01 / The Bar Concept

A Speakeasy-Inspired Sanctuary

The bar at Velvetan Donyx is designed as a sophisticated retreat where craft cocktails meet the thrill of social poker. It is a place to unwind before a tournament or celebrate after a winning hand. Dark mahogany wood, low lighting, and antique gold accents create an intimate atmosphere that feels both exclusive and welcoming.

The bar program is curated to complement the dry-aged grill menu and the energy of the poker lounge. Every detail, from the glassware to the soundtrack, is chosen to support conversation and relaxation. Velvetan Donyx is strictly offline and non-gambling; all poker is social with tournament chips.

Cocktails as an Experience

Every cocktail is crafted with precision, using house-made syrups, fresh citrus, and premium spirits. The menu changes seasonally to highlight the best ingredients. Signature drinks are designed to be savored slowly, encouraging conversation between poker hands.

  • Bartenders are trained in classic techniques and modern innovations.
  • Non-alcoholic options are available for players who prefer to stay sharp.
  • Seasonal menu updates keep the selection fresh and relevant.
Dimly lit upscale cocktail bar counter with backlit shelves of spirits
02 / Signature Cocktails

Signature Cocktails

The Velvetan Old Fashioned

A house take on the classic, featuring barrel-aged bourbon, smoked demerara sugar, and a hint of orange bitters. Served over a large hand-cut ice cube.

  • Barrel-aged in-house for 30 days.
  • Garnished with an expressed orange peel.
  • Pairs well with the dry-aged ribeye.

The Donyx Sour

A bright and balanced sour with rye whiskey, fresh lemon, egg white, and a touch of honey syrup. Finished with a few drops of aromatic bitters.

  • Egg white creates a silky texture.
  • Honey syrup is made with local Sydney honey.
  • A crowd-pleaser for poker night regulars.

Smoked Mahogany Negroni

A smoky twist on the Italian classic, combining gin, sweet vermouth, and Campari with a hint of smoked cherry wood. Served in a chilled rocks glass.

  • Smoke is infused using a handheld smoker.
  • Garnished with a dehydrated orange wheel.
  • Bitter and complex, ideal for sipping between poker hands.
03 / Barrel-Aged Spirits

House Barrel Program

Velvetan Donyx ages select spirits in small oak barrels, allowing the flavors to mellow and develop unique characteristics. The program rotates quarterly, offering guests a changing selection of rare and refined pours.

  • Current barrels include bourbon, rye, and a rare Australian single malt.
  • Aging periods range from 30 to 90 days.
  • Guests can sample barrel-aged spirits neat or in cocktails.
Oak barrels stacked in a dimly lit aging room with a glass of whiskey
04 / Craft Techniques & Ingredients

Craft Techniques & Ingredients

House-Made Everything

From syrups to bitters, the bar team prepares ingredients in-house to ensure freshness and control over flavor profiles.

  • Syrups are made with raw sugar and filtered water.
  • Bitters are infused with local botanicals.
  • Citrus is juiced daily, never from concentrate.

Local and Seasonal Sourcing

The bar prioritizes Australian spirits and seasonal produce, supporting local distilleries and reducing environmental impact.

  • Featured gins from Sydney and Melbourne distilleries.
  • Seasonal fruits from New South Wales farms.
  • Herbs grown in the venue's rooftop garden.
05 / Cocktails & Poker Pairings

Cocktails & Poker Pairings

Sipping Between Hands

The bar offers cocktails designed to be enjoyed slowly, allowing players to maintain focus while savoring complex flavors. Low-ABV options like spritzes and highballs are popular during tournaments. Bartenders can recommend drinks based on the pace of play, and non-alcoholic cocktails keep players sharp without sacrificing taste.

Signature Pairings

Pair the Velvetan Old Fashioned with the dry-aged ribeye for a classic combination, or try the Donyx Sour with the woodfired chicken. The bar team works with the kitchen to create pairing suggestions, which are listed on the dining menu. Guests can ask for personalized recommendations.

Wide shot of an upscale bar lounge with plush seating and warm lighting
06 / The Bar Atmosphere

An Intimate Setting

The bar is designed for conversation and relaxation, with plush seating, warm lighting, and a curated soundtrack that never overpowers. Seating includes high-top tables and a long mahogany bar. Lighting is dimmed in the evening to create a speakeasy feel. The bar is adjacent to the poker lounge, allowing easy movement between areas.

Social Poker Nights

On tournament nights, the bar becomes a hub for players to discuss hands and unwind. The atmosphere is friendly and inclusive, with no real-money gambling. Tournament chips are used for all poker games. Players can order drinks at the bar or via table service, and the bar hosts occasional tasting events.

07 / Non-Alcoholic Offerings

Crafted Without Compromise

The bar offers a selection of zero-proof cocktails that are just as complex and satisfying as their alcoholic counterparts. House-made shrubs and syrups form the base. Options include a smoky zero-proof old fashioned and a citrus spritz. Perfect for staying sharp during poker tournaments.

Smoky Zero-Proof Old Fashioned

House-smoked tea, demerara syrup, and aromatic bitters over a large ice cube.

Citrus Spritz

Fresh grapefruit, lemon, and a hint of rosemary syrup topped with soda.

08 / Visit the Bar

Hours & Location

The bar is open during venue hours, with extended service on poker tournament nights. Located on Level 1 of 88 King Street, Sydney.

  • Monday to Thursday: 4pm - 11pm
  • Friday and Saturday: 4pm - 1am
  • Sunday: 4pm - 10pm

Reservations recommended for groups.

Reservations

To reserve a table at the bar or book a poker dining experience, contact the reservations team.

Walk-ins welcome based on availability.

Book a Reservation