Got an image of yourself pulling up a stool at an bar in America? You don't need to go that far as Brisbane has been seduced by American-style bars this year.
Ed+bK bar reporter Alexander Stone explores the latest bar addition and gets to know his Papa.
Papa Jack's in Fortitude Valley’s new M&A Lane seems to have found its happy spot.
Coming from the established hospitality minds of ex-canvas owners Emily and Marco Nunes,
Papa Jack's wants to offer it all. Open from 11.30am for lunch and dinner till late, Jack's pumps out the new Orleans vibe seven days a week.
Jack's also hosts live music with some great acts booked to play at their own piano. I had to return to take some more photos (and another cheeky drink) and got to hear a lady who had just walked off the street play Bohemian Rhapsody in full to my amazement.
The drinks list is also exciting. For speed of service you can order pre-made, house-bottled cocktails, alcoholic iced teas for a refreshing afternoon (or morning) cool down. The shared
punch bowls have great names such as Curiosity Drank the Cat which contains Hendricks Gin, St Germain, jasmine syrup, fresh apple and bitters.
There's also the Papa Jack’s version of Sazerac, which is sometimes referred to as the oldest known American cocktail, will be available on tap or made on the spot using a mixing glass and strained in a steamed whiskey glass rinsed with Old Pernod Absinthe.
So go down and try some Creole cookery or a cool cocktail to help you beat the heat this summer.
Find M&A Lane and Papa Jack's on the corner Connor and McLachlan Streets, Fortitude Valley.
Best tip: Start with a pre-made cocktail and work your way through the list
Bottom line: A great addition to Brisbane's bar scene from operators with serious bar cred.
Kerry Heaney