Head back in time with innovative cocktails high above Sydney

 

Take the lift to level 22 and the world looks a whole lot better. 

High above the hustle and bustle and construction noise of the day, Sydney sparkles from up in the sky. 

Mixology is a serious business but the cocktails at stylish sky-high bar Dean & Nancy on 22 are full of fun. 

This is a cocktail bar worth seeking out; a nice vibe; great views. And some nifty snacks, as well. 

I was a bit late checking out the launch of its new signature cocktail menu, Time Machine, which is billed as "a spirited journey through the cultural icons, inventions and milestones that defined the 1950s and 1960s".

Innovative, with the interactive menu that invites guests to unlock each cocktail by rotating a spinning time selector, revealing the stories and flavours of 14 signature creations. And that's in addition to some long-time favourites and some ‘High Roller’ drinks made tableside. 

You can choose to sit at the bar, or at a private booth (ideal for small groups). 

Among the menu of craft cocktails is: Road Runner ‘Beep Beep’: A playful tribute to the beloved Warner Brothers’ cartoon, this tequila-based cocktail arrives in a custom 3D printed dynamite bar vessel. 

There is also  the Instant Camera: blending nostalgia with innovation, this vodka highball channels the childlike curiosity that sparked Edwin Land’s invention of the Polaroid. Guests receive a freshly snapped instant photo as their garnish - and as a keepsake. 

I very much liked the great looking Black Box (above), a citrus‐driven whisky cocktail honouring Australian inventor Dr David Warren and his invention in 1954 of the flight recorder. Think macadamia‐infused The Dalmore 12, mandarin, blackberry, black chinotto and an orange dust garnish to echo the real device’s colour. 

We also tried the fun M&Ms (Michters Rye Whiskey, Oats, Licor 43, vanilla, peanut butter, cacao and cream), which comes with a side serve of M&Ms, and a Kid Ory, a blend of Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva Rum, salted calamansi and pineapple, Tia Maria, Agricole Rhum and Cacao bitters. 

Great if you don't have to drive. 

There is an enticing selection of snacks: we sampled the impressively French-accented saucisson sec with cornichons (below), caramelised onion dip with pickles and parmesan crackers, and Manchego croquettes with Iberico and verde mayo.

All were tasty and well presented, but you can also choose from some share plates, perhaps some oysters, or buttermilk kingfish, or opt for a pork and beef lasagna, or a Wagyu ribeye with chimichurri sauce.   

“At Dean & Nancy, we’ve always believed cocktails should do more than taste great - they should spark the imagination,” says restaurant and bar manager Krisztian Csigo.

“Our Time Machine menu celebrates the people and moments that shaped a generation, brought to life through playful techniques, vintage references and modern mixology.” 

The Time Machine menu was developed in collaboration with the world-renowned team at drinks innovators Maybe Sammy. 

There is an aperitivo hour between 5-6pm with discounted drinks, including cocktails and wines by the glass. Ideal for watching the sun set. 

Dean & Nancy on 22, Level 22, 2 Hunter St, Sydney. Open 4.30pm until late. 

See www.deanandnancyon22.com.au

* The writer was hosted by Dean and Nancy on 22.