Manager, FINEPRINTCO Art Bar
Manager, FINEPRINTCO Art Bar
As a former manager of some of Sydney’s most prestigious cocktail bars, Mixologist of FINEPRINTCO Art Bar, Rumtin Nouzat was immediately intrigued by the concept of a venue that seamlessly blended fine art with high-quality beverages. After learning more about the space and its philosophy, he knew he had to be part of it.
Rumtin has carefully designed a menu with extensive European inspired cocktails, unique to anything the Gold Coast has seen. Rumtin will work with guests to create beverages tailored to their unique tastes and palettes, offering refined and personalised service for guests.
We chatted to Rumtin to find out more about his process and why he loves living on the Gold Coast.
How long have you been a Gold Coast local?
I have been a Gold Coast local for 6 months now.
What do you love the most about the Gold Coast?
What I love most about the Gold Coast is that it feels like a holiday every day. Everything I love is within arm’s reach, from the beach to the mountains in this small city. I’m a bit of a hippie on the inside, and love to be surrounded by nature, so the Gold Coast is the perfect place for me.
Tell us a bit about yourself.
My dream is to harvest my own fruit and veg, and provide this fresh produce in my bar. I enjoy providing elevated elements to what I serve to clients. At the moment I have the next best thing which is the Standard Market Company next door!
Accessing the produce, they source for the Gold Coast; I can walk into the market, look at the seasonal produce get inspiration for my cocktails. The vast range of unusual produce allows me to create flavours that are new to the Gold Coast in terms of cocktails.
What do you consider your greatest career achievement?
My motto is that ‘one should refine what they drink, not drink more’. Working as the Art Bar Manager allows me to provide the Gold Coast with a new style of drinking, providing guests with flavours they have never heard or tasted before. I steer away from syrupy sweet cocktails, and provide guests with the highest quality spirits, creating drinks with exotic flavours such as pandan, fig leaf, and grilled pears in their cocktails. We take the time to infuse and create all elements in-house to execute these intricate flavours. My vision in this bar is to take our guests on a drinking experience, wowing people with curated well thought out cocktails and taking them on a journey of flavours or spirits they have not tasted before. We like to think of ourselves as liquid chefs.
What makes FINEPRINTCO Art Bar a unique cocktail bar on the Gold Coast?
Just when you thought it couldn’t get any better, all the signature cocktails are matched with famous Slim Aarons prints which bring the cocktails to life. As you drink your cocktail and look at the print on display in the gallery space you really feel as if you are there and how and why we created the cocktail with those elements.
FINEPRINTCO Art Bar has announced a collaboration with Vogue Australia, tell us about that.
Until the end of March, FINEPRINTCO is presenting a special display in the Art Bar of some of the Australian Vogue magazine imagery. The gallery space has some iconic works from previous decades for everyone to view. To match these works we have curated a cocktail in honour of Vogue month, which is a tropical cocktail consisting of groovy ingredients. Elements we have used are Pandan rum, using an enzyme we have produced banana water, and a toasted banana peel syrup which tastes like toasted banana bread, and few other ingredients to balance, served up! A deep rich cocktail from the fresh banana, with a vanilla and nutty undertone from the pandan leaf.
What is your personal favourite cocktail, and why?
Personally, I’m a martini drinker, give me a London dry gin and some good Italian vermouth and I’m a happy man.
What is the process of creating (from start to finish) a new cocktail?
Our process of making cocktails goes either 2 ways, we either go to the market and look at what’s in season, take a product then make a flavour map, write a few versions of the cocktail then do some trial and error till we get the best out of the produce we have. Then we make a garnish that is curated to the flavour of the drink, for example, a meringue, caramelised walnut, beijinhos (a traditional Brazilian dessert which is toasted shredded coconut and condensed milk) and much more. Cocktails are constantly changing, whenever you come in you’ll find something new as everything is in season and we like to keep you on your toes!
The other way we can make a cocktail is by taking a beautiful print, looking at the colours and vibe of the print and see what inspires us and go from there.
What are your Gold Coast favourites…
My Gold Coast favourite spots are anywhere that has Vietnamese coffee! I don’t eat out too much as I love to cook for myself and my friends at home.
How do you choose to spend your days off?
I spend my days off enjoying whatever life has to offer me, generally with my friends.
Have you ever walked past an art gallery, paused to take a peek, only to scurry off before making eye contact with the very cultured looking human working inside? Well one super savvy GC duo is changing up the traditional art gallery stereotype so that we mere mortals do in fact move past go and collect $200 (sans the $200).
Imagine feeling relaxed and inspired, finally getting up close and personal with those Slim Aarons plastered all over your Pinterest boards. Better yet, imagine being able to sip on a specially crafted artisan cocktail as you admire classic and contemporary works and yes, this is definitely scratching an itch. Introducing FINEPRINTCO Art Bar, expertly fusing a gallery space with a private bar, and guaranteed to make any gallery trepidation vanish faster than Milli Vanilli’s career.
The brainchild of St Barts, Gallery One and FINEPRINTCO founders Leanne Pearce and Jasmine Smith, these ladies are certainly no strangers to the wonderful world of art. With a mission to redefine the gallery experience, they are listening to client feedback, broadening their market, and creating something truly unique here on the Coast.
Demonstrating that you can visit a gallery, get customised assistance to align your personality with the perfect artwork (a margi print should do it), and kick back with friends for a relaxed PM tipple, this one’s a keeper. And, with more people than ever before creating an inner sanctuary vibe at home using the likes of art, we declare this concept Expert Level: Genius. Oh and we weren’t kidding about the Slim Aarons’, which are sold exclusively by FINEPRINTCO in Australia and New Zealand #micdrop.
Aptly brought to life by the fit-out and design ‘artists’ at Zero 9 Constructions, the intimate space is nothing short of perfection. It’s vibrant yet restrained, allowing guests to appreciate the art but also the elegance of the venue design. Using marble and concrete in an open plan layout to best showcase the artworks, warmth was added with a bespoke timber bar and hand-designed wallpaper, accentuated with gold leaf detail by in-house artists.
It’s also ideal for unique, customised private events and corporate functions, hosting up to 40 people. A great idea for your work end of year get-together, you’re bound to score brownie points from the Big Cheese for the suggestion. Plus you can spoil yo’self with a little artwork Christmas pressie for your lounge which LBH, is always easily justified when you’re several cocktails deep.
Speaking of, it’s time to unpack the beverage menu and yes, this is our favourite part too. Serving the finest Australian and International spirits and wines, Bar Manager Rumtin Nouzat has created a suite of signature cocktails designed exclusively for the venue. And, each one is inspired by the work of Slim Aarons and srsly, could this get any cooler?
With possibly THE most innovative and exciting cocktail list we’ve seen (and believe you me, we’ve seen our fair share), you certainly won’t leave thirsty. We strongly recommend Life in the Bahamas (both literally, and the drink) with Caribbean rum, toasted coconut, salted mango and habanero. Equally satisfying is the Sundowner with triple juniper gin, rose vermouth, strawberry, rhubarb, and bubbles. To stop these refreshments from going to your head, tuck into one of the divine Antipasto Platters or if you’re planning a function, feel free to BYO caterer.
So if you love your art, your sips, and your chillaxed catchups with friends, FINEPRINTCO Art Bar marries the three effortlessly. Cross our h-ART-s and hope to…see you there.
Where: Brickworks, Shop 302, 107 Ferry Road, Southport
When: 12pm – 7pm Wednesday – Saturday & 12pm – 4pm Sunday. Closed Monday & Tuesday.
Instagram: @fineprintco_artbar
Website: www.fineprintco-artbar.com
Images by Brittany Kreskas
Words by Bianca Trathen
After slugging it out at work all week, there’s not much that could persuade us to skip a night in with takeaway and ‘Pamela, a Love Story’. Unless of course your crew are heading to a new bar or distillery, by which case it’s hoo-roo jim-jams and hello LBD.
2022 was certainly a year for epic sips spots and we challenge you to say that after a few chardys. We’ve penned the holy grail of last year’s newest power players on the GC watering hole scene, so grab your Berocca and get ready to experience 15 of the best.
BARS
The Malibu Racquet Club
Get ‘served’ like a VIP at this mid-century Southern Cali inspired A-lister. Perfect for a sunset sip, pre-dinner drink and/or sophisticated Modern Australian meal, guests can sit outside and enjoy the beautiful southern GC breezes, park inside at a table or private booth, or simply pull up a pew at the bar. Become a member and unlock a VVIP menu, with bottles ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 #A-ListerFeels.
Where: 1740 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
FINEPRINTCO Art Bar
Sip on a specially crafted artisan cocktail as you admire classic and contemporary works (#HiSlimAaarons) at FINEPRINTCO Art Bar. Expertly fusing a gallery space with a private bar, its vibrant yet restrained aesthetic allows guests to appreciate the art and the elegance of the venue design. Also the perfect option for unique and customised private events. Do.Not.Miss.
Where: Brickworks, Shop 302, 107 Ferry Road, Southport
Local
Imagine a modern, lush, insta-worthy upmarket pub with a blend of classic and refined lunch and dinner options, late night drinks, and even a breakfast menu #NotYourAveragePub. Nailing contemporary pub-grub and a coastal industrial chic aesthetic, it also houses Burleigh’s only beer garden and a tinnie bar #NuffSaid.
Where: 1744 Gold Coast Highway, Burleigh Heads
La Luna Beach Club
The newest addition to arguably THE hottest (or coolest…) venue in town is La Luna Beach Club, Australia’s very first floating beach club. Modelled on life aboard a luxury yacht, imagine a sparking Mediterranean pool complete with sun lounges, plush day beds, and private cabanas. Take a dip, order a cocktail, rejuvenate, and luxuriate, before enjoying a selection of carefully curated European eats at the Beach Club’s exclusive MĀRE restaurant.
Where: Pool Pontoon, Marina Mirage, 74 Sea World Drive, Main Beach
The Beverly
Taking over from our fave of yester-year (Melba’s – upstairs), you’ll find this luxe venue thrusting us straight into the LA limelight. Paying homage to the chic coolness that oozes from the bars, clubs, and venues from La La Land, everything from the rich green, blush pink and gold-hued fit out, inane cocktails, live music, and ‘that’ baby grand piano are on point. Joey Lamattina, you’ve done it again #props.
Where: 46 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise
Little Vine Room
Vine means wine which means LET’S GO! An intimate space decked out in delicious deep green and apricot hues, we are fangirling hard for this place. Work your way through the beverage list curated by esteemed cocktail kween and local icon Breeana Erica, and enjoy gourmet Toasties, Jaffles, Cheese and Charcuterie Plates. Perfect for a girly catch up, drinks with your other half, or a private function to remember.
Where: 27-31 Currumbin Creek Road, Currumbin Waters
Fu Manchu Oriental Kitchen
Think oriental opulence meets British colonial plantation vibes…with a ten outta ten sips and eats experience. Recently undergoing a reno to inject more femininity and warmth, the new black London shopfront welcomes you into the cosy Fu Bar. Upstairs you’ll find a breathtaking a la carte dining area, an intimate private dining space, and a functions area. With chandeliers, a tropical jungle-esk wall mural, leafy ceilings, and exotic wallpapers, it’s Chevron’s best kept secret.
Where: 2/44 Thomas Drive, Chevron Island
Metabar
Oozing sophisticated cool with its New York basement feels, ‘it girl’ curves, and luxer than luxe accents, Metabar is an eats, drinks and events spot like no other. There’s indoor and outdoor dining for tapas share plates and pizza, an exclusive private mezzanine space, and luxury booth dining. The beverages are off the charts, plus there’s an area dedicated purely to live music, the secret sauce positioning Metabar as one of our region’s fiercest venues.
Where: 64 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
DISTILLERIES
White Oat Distillery
Helping reinvent the once sleepier end of the Coast is Biggera Waters’ White Oat Distillery. Pumping out top-notch gins like a boss, the ‘Covid baby’ of three GC mates has quickly become a destination in itself. With award-winning distiller Tudor Duxbury’s fresh take on classic tastes, an on-fleek fit-out, and ‘wise but cool with a hint of old school’ vibe, it’s a must-visit.
Where: 13-14, 211 Brisbane Road, Biggera Waters
Cauldron Distillery
This 18-acre working distillery is the darling of the Scenic Rim, featuring an established vineyard, lush rolling green meadows and a Prohibition style gin and cocktail bar. Earning a nod in Lonely Planet’s top ten destinations to visit in 2022, you won’t just fine amazing gins and Queensland inspired craft bevvies, but also mouth-watering Modern Australian tapas with native ingredients. Or keep it simple with a BYO picnic rug amongst the vineyards and complimentary lawn games.
Where: Cauldron Distillery, 89 Cauldron Estate, 123 Hartley Road, Tamborine Mountain
Winchester Distillery
Available for functions only and the ultimate IYKYK, this speakeasy distillery tucked away in the burbs nails the intimate, moody, industrial vibe. Accommodating up to 120 bods, if offers exclusive access to phenomenal small batch artisanal liquors and liqueurs. Producing spirits by hand (even the ethyl alcohol, flavours, colours and most of their tinctures), you won’t find their booze anywhere else. Trust you gintuition and check it out.
Where: 38 Kendor Street, Arundel
Burleigh Barrels
Made for and by the locals in the heart of Burleigh, this 2022 newcomer achieved cult status at the speed of light. Just a 10-minute walk from bustling James Street, hook yourself up with crisp lagers, caramel amber ales and ladies, if you’re all about a vino or cocktail (duh), there’s plenty of those. Also a smokehouse (drool), the flavours in their food are ‘pitcher’ perfect.
Where: 3-4/105 West Burleigh Road, Burleigh Heads
Two Mates Taphouse
With a name like Two Mates Taphouse, you just know the place is going to be a big, warm, amber ale-infused hug…and you’d be bang on the money. Brother venue to the Lismore Two Mates Taphouse, it was born from a love of families, mateship, and bringing communities together. The vibe is welcoming, approachable and relaxed, and it even boasts a fully operational kitchen #NoFoodTrucksHere.
Where: 2/235 Varsity Parade, Varsity Lakes
Hound & Stag Brewing Co.
The latest in a string of venues fostering the northern GC’s long awaited coming-of-age has just opened across the road from Harbour Town – and it’s a clanger! Hound & Stag Brewing Co is its name and if you’re a fan of the almighty amber ale (or any other boozy beverage), a top-notch feed and a bloody good time, this one’s for you.
Where: 13 Wrights Place, Arundel
Straddie Brewing Co
Just across the water, you’ll find this three-level architecturally designed showstopper. The ground floor welcomes you with double-height glass windows and the awe-inspiring brewery. Up the stairs you’ll find a 90-seat taproom with eye-popping art installations, and the top deck featuring panoramic views of the BrisVegas CBD skyline, the Glasshouse Mountains, and the stunning Redlands Coast #ShowUsYourSunsets. Plus there’s a menu with plenty of fancy local seafood inspired sharesies.
Where: 5 Junner Street, Dunwich, North Stradbroke Island
Words by Bianca Trathen.
