The Rook and Kooinda Golden Ale

West Wynyard continues its unstoppable crusade to become the pocket of Sydney that has the largest number of cool, small bars. The latest one I’ve visited is The Rook – “rooftop at 56-58 york”. Like many West Wynyard bars it doesn’t exactly scream its location at street level. If you know the address, it is straight-forward to find – just press R on the lift inside (R for roof or indeed Rook). Once out of the lift its straight ahead to the bar, which has a number of small high tables with bar stools. The main capacity is out to the right in front of the kitchen. I think that they are keen to get you to eat.

I didn’t bother to really check out the cocktails. The beer list is compact and probably changes regularly, given that it is handwritten in chalk on a blackboard painted door. The choice ranges from Cascade Light to Trumer Pils to Kooinda Golden Ale. $11 for a Trumer Pils is a little steep and this is definitely a place to be on someone else’s coin. The food choice is outstanding – so long as you like Burgers or Lobster. 3 varieties of each. $50 for a half lobster. There’s also a desserts menu including the great deep fried Mars Bar.

Great to see a Kooinda brew north of the border. I first had a Kooinda when I tried a Kooinda Pale Ale a couple of years and at least one label ago. They’ve expanded their range to 6 beers, including this cracking Golden Ale. Valhalla Golden Ale isn’t big, but it is very tasty. The hops is light, but distinct and really hangs around. Super session beer, so long as your (or preferably your host’s) wallet is deep. I’d be keen to see how The Rook performs in the dark and see how the views look and night lighting looks – very keen to return.