Little Red Pocket

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Little Red Pocket

Has it really been almost a month since my last post? That's absurd! I guess it's been busy busy busy bodies around here :)

Spent the weekend in Melbourne for a few things including the opening weekend of the Little Red Pocket Cocktail Bar. You should TOTALLY check it out! Uber cool! Enjoy!

With cocktail names like ginger ninja or geisha, you know there's an Asian invasion! Little Red Pocket at 422 Little Collins St opened up this week as a concept bar where you don't need to get up from your seat to order drinks anymore. Ipad2s stuck to your table will allow you to select drinks, cocktails and japas (Japanese tapas) AND swipe your plastic from your table without having to move an inch.

With a beautiful red and black themed setting and wooden black Japanese styled arches and tables, cocktails are all sake based and you can order japas like the salmon .. And beef tatami (to die for!). The loungey vibe is perfect for pre dinner drinks, post dinner drinks or just a night out hanging with your friends without losing your voice because you're screaming to try to hear one another.

For those who are designated drivers or just not up for an alcoholic beverage, there is a divine selection of exotic teas like the strawberry and vanilla teas straight from Japan to keep you warm.

Also open for lunch, their specialties are super bento boxes.

Owner Andrew Hiew is no stranger to the scene. At the ripe old age of 26, this is third club/bar opening in 18 months. I did a quick Q&A with him:

1. Why the name little red pocket?

Because it’s a small, relaxed and comfortable venue. Just like a little pocket =)

2. Why Japanese fusion?

Coz japs are cool and funky. And their culture has so much to offer. Sake, Jap food, amazing service, natural décor and technology are all a big part of jap culture that we all love.

3. Who is your chef?

Hai Tran-Phan. Ex Nobu chef=)

4. What's your favourite on the tapas menu and also your favourite/recommended cocktail?

Fav tapas would have to be the crispy oysters!!!!!! YUM

And fav cocktail definitely the Akebono!!! =)

5. Why the ipad approach?

Because jap’s are efficient in service and love their tech. Plus everyone loves iPad’s, innovative ideas, social media and drinking alcohol. So why not join them all together in LRP =)

6. How did you get into the industry?

I’ve always been active in the industry. From promotions to being a club photographer to owning my own venues. First club I opened was Fabrique Nightclub, then Marrakech, and now LRP.

7. Describe LRP in 3 words.

Little. Red. Pocket??? LOL nah… umm… sophisticated innovative and relaxing

Think fusion Japanese with loungey house beats and yumyum cocktails! I'm definitely heading there again when i'm next in Melbourne-town! My favourite drink was definitely the Akebono - this amazingly banana-smoothie-like cocktail which apparently has alcohol in it (which you really can't taste that much - DANGEROUS!)