Mill Place Merchants

THE VERDICT

The hardest part about visiting Mill Place Merchants is finding it in the first place. Google Maps? Hates to see a secret bar coming. Your best bet? Locate the Mill Place laneway, look for the large red MPM monogrammed door (you’ll know it when you see it), step through a storefront disguised as a suit shop, and suddenly, you’re not just in another era—you’re in another century entirely.

Housed in a heritage-listed 1840s building, Mill Place Merchants is steeped in history. Once home to meat preservers, hat makers, soap makers, and candle merchants, the space now flickers with candlelight against exposed brick walls—a gateway to old-world elegance.

This speakeasy-style cocktail bar has no time for trends, fads, or overly sweet concoctions. Instead, it honours original 1900s cocktail recipes, some even predating the classics. You’ll find the drink that *may have* inspired the margarita in 1937, an original French martini, ‘The Pink Lady’ (a must-try), and a Dirty Martini served exactly as it should be—on a silver platter. If decision fatigue kicks in, opt for The Merchant’s Supper, a tiered platter stacked with charcuterie, pies, and snackable miniatures—perfect for grazing between rounds.

Cocktail lovers will appreciate the Masters Section for a lineup of original recipes listed under their rightful creators. First up is Jacques Straub, featuring drinks straight from his 1914 archives, followed by the legendary Dick Bradsell, often credited as the world’s first “celebrity bartender.” Then there’s Hyman Gale and Gerald F. Marco, where you’ll find the ‘Jushu’ listed—a mix of tequila, lime, honey, and Angostura bitters—a must-try for margarita fanatics.

This isn’t your typical post-work drinks spot, though. They encourage a minimum of smart casuals, so dress accordingly.

Peruse the vibes on their Instagram, here. 

Image credit: Mill Place Merchants | Bonnie Savage

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