Tell us about your bar:
Queenies is a bar and restaurant located in the iconic Forresters Hotel in the heart of Surry Hills. It boasts a heavily Jamaican-influenced menu offering pan-tropical specialities consisting of modern takes on classic Caribbean staples. The bar itself makes its presence known as you reach the top of the stairs, drawing your attention with a battery of lights and voodoo styling. Bar manager Ross Te Paa, an expert in all things rum, has hand-crafted a cocktail list of boozy libations that will knock your socks off… literally.
What’s on the menu?
The menu presents a Caribbean cantina, taking influence from the coveted old spice routes, and offers a large variety of snacks, curries and mains – some traditional and some just bloody tasty. Executive chef Daniel Corbett has provided the people with a modern, yet homely take on the flavours of the Caribbean that even Viv Richards would be proud of. From the handmade cassava bread bammies to the BBQ jerk chicken, you can’t go wrong.
Care for a drink?
Queenies provides an extensive drinks list showcasing Caribbean staples such as Red Stripe and Jamaican ginger beer. The cocktail list is a mind-blowing iteration of Ross’ 20 years’ experience in the game. It ranges from modern takes on classic Tiki and Caribbean styles through to Caribbean twists on old-school classics. The crowd favourite at Queenies would have to be the coconut daiquiri, delivered in a chili-salt-rimmed coupette – a beautiful smooth and drinkable concoction that will have you coming back for more.
Sounds:
The playlist at Queenies is a mixture of classic reggae through to golden era ’90s hip hop.
Address: Level 1, The Forresters, 336 Riley St, Surry Hills
Phone number: (02) 9212 3035
Opening hours: Tues – Sat 6pm-late; Fri 12pm-3pm (lunch)
