Hickson House Distilling Co

Shaking up The Rocks' bar scene in a big way, Hickson House Distilling Co. is the brainchild of Mikey Enright and Julian Train (of The Duke of Clarence and The Barber Shop fame) plus Tim Stones (distilling whiz formerly of Manly Spirits). 

Housed in the old Saatchi & Saatchi garage, Hickson House breathes new life into the former warehouse party pad as an active distillery complete with stunning bar and dining room.

Inside the enormous, lofty bar, a towering wall of backlit gin bottles glows beneath a pair of twinkling chandeliers—this is definitely a breathtaking spot for a cocktail.

Behind large glass windows are the distillery's custom-made shiny copper pot stills, which you can watch from plush couches or perched at the bar. Up the stairs, you'll find a secret mezzanine cocktail lounge, called the High & Dry Bar. 

Signature cocktails include a gimlet and a page full of martinis (naturally), which are made using the range of Hickson Road gins: Australian Dry, London Dry, and Harbour Strength. You'll also find a range of rare whiskies and other top-notch Australian-made spirits. 

On the locally sourced, botanically-inspired snack menu are things like flour-dusted squid with finger lime and pepperberry, slow-roasted lamb porchetta with juniper jus and mint gremolata to share. For dessert, there's a whisky chocolate lamington, just casually. 

Beyond gin, Hickson Road will make their own whisky and bespoke single spirits too, and the team will host super special tours and experiences.  

Image credit: Hickson Road Distilling Co.