A Freo flag-bearer for just about everything that makes a good small bar a great one.
One of hospitality’s many hard truths is that you can’t please everybody. That’s why some places don’t even bother to try. But Strange Company certainly does, and does a mighty fine job of it at that. It’s near impossible to name another watering hole that aims for as many targets – on-trend beers and wines; elevated cocktails; charcuterie, cheese and inventive share plates – and pretty much hits all the bullseyes.
Even if you’ve never visited before, you’re made to feel like a longtime regular the instant you walk in.
A quirky but considered line runs through just about everything here. Think dried saltbush leaves floating on a vodka Martini variation made with Lillet Blanc and a fino reduction,
or an unexpected sprinkle of sumac over spaghettini, calamari and bottarga. Yet, never once does any element – not even a painted raspberry purée garnish on a Clover Club riff – stray into gimmicky territory.
Even if you’ve never visited before, you’re made to feel like a longtime regular the instant you walk in. It’s due in large part to staff with effervescence in their DNA, but also to the eternal coolness of the airy and inviting indoor/outdoor space, flanked by timber and bamboo. Call in for live jazz on a Sunday afternoon, and you’ll become that regular in no time.
