BOLD fun loving and independent – that’s what they called her. Her beaded dress shimmering in the dimmed lights of the bar as her heels hit the distressed timber-look floors. The glass-reeded door swung open effortlessly now, but a hundred years ago, it might have hidden secrets behind a passcode.
Black pressed-tin Melbourne panels line the roof, while carved wooden wall panelling and kit kat cocoa gloss tiles along the bar nod to the Art Deco age.
At the marble carved bar, bronze drip trays and finishes glint under warm lights that dim as the night progresses. The draft tower is a mesmerising standout in a bar lined with gin, rum, whiskey and wine. A cocktail lovers delight.
Pink gin spritz in hand, she walks over to her friends, heels clicking. She was here two nights previous for a function in the private room. Close enough to soak up the lively atmosphere yet secluded enough for intimate celebrations. The timeless notes of Louis Armstrong and His Hot Five float through the speakers…
It’s easy to lose oneself in the layered stories, to immerse oneself in the what ifs, the imaginable history of The Archaic – a speakeasy-inspired tapas bar nestled within the old entrance of the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club.
The brainchild of General Manager Rod Bye and Committee, the space is a blend of old-world charm and contemporary flair, with vintage paintings, soft lamplight, and deco-inspired touches woven throughout a cosy, sophisticated interior.
A stately old clock presides over the scene, though it keeps two different times – one side keeps good, the other is a little closer to island time. Here one can gather with friends for a social drink, enjoy a tapas date or a quiet wayfarer moment in an atmosphere that is truly like no other in town.
A feast awaits those who enter. Indulge in kataifi king prawns and crispy chicken tacos, share delicate scallop dumplings or popcorn chicken or dive in with a mezze platter to share when The Archaic opens its doors this Friday from 4pm. Accessible directly from the street or via a winding hallway past the Cavil Room.
Born from a restoration of the Wonthaggi Workmen’s Club, the front façade now recalls its original charm, while new timber windows open the space to the outside world.
Inside The Archaic don’t expect to watch sports, with no televisions, instead settle into conversation with friends, people watch or enjoy the live music on Sunday from 2pm.
A new chef with new menu will see tapas available from open to close.
“There is nothing like it,” Rod smiled as the Sentinel-Times headed inside for a sneak peek last week.
“It gives our members and guests more choices. It’s old worldly, yet modern, a place to unwind.”
With weekly specials The Archaic is open Thursdays and Fridays from 4pm, Saturdays from 3pm and Sunday from 12 noon until late.
Whilst you’re inside don’t forget to book your next Christmas function with large spaces available right through to intimate 12-seater private dining quarters.
And if the night runs long, rest easy and comfortably with a room at M J McMahon Motel.
Discover The Archaic for yourself, open this Friday from 4pm.