The Cocktail Bar

In Hamilton, The Cocktail Bar leans into the art of the aperitif and the after-hours sip, pairing polished pours with easygoing plates. This is a place designed for conversation: order a couple of things to share, then let the rhythm of the evening gather pace.

From the local larder of aged and double-cream soft cheese, crackers, baby pickles and dried apricots to a cured-and-cultured spread with smoky meats and relishes, the grazing starts strong. Pizzas bring playful twists: Hot Piggy layers a herbed tomato base with smoky pulled pork and a bourbon maple drizzle, while Little Hen marries cranberry, chicken, spinach, brie and mozzarella.

The bar lives up to its name, from an Espresso Martini to a Lychee Margarita, alongside low-alcohol refreshments such as a mojito or Tangy Apples. There is also a tidy selection from the grape, including Prosecco and Sauvignon Blanc, and a nod to the hop with Heineken and Summit Ultra. Drop in for a first sip or make a night of it; either way, let the cocktails do the talking, and the small plates steal a word or two.