PICCOLO BAR
Piccolo Bar, a tiny little hole-in-the-wall cafe has been in the same spot in a Kings Cross back-street since the 1950’s when long-time owner Vittorio Bianchi was a newly arrived immigrant waiting tables. Many stars famous and infamous have passed through here*, Vito became the owner and was a fixture in the neighbourhood - still waiting tables, having a chat with locals, knitting scarves and passing comments on the passing trade with his acerbic wit.
Covid came along and amongst a prolonged lockdown, locals thought that the shuttered cafe was destined never to open again. But now a new chapter dawns in the life of Piccolo Bar - reopened as our Aperitivo bar & diner, playing Euro tunes and with an updated look that somehow has managed to retain the charm and vibe of the old bar. It’s a little slice of Europe that evokes the authentic Kings Cross vibe.
This space does great cocktails, limited but tasty food options, doesn’t take bookings, and is busy every night. Opens every day, except Monday, from afternoon till midnight.
*David Bowie!
Also fans of RAKE, this is Cleaver’s breakfast cafe with the flat above
THE GLITTERING MILE
The Glittering Mile is where it all began. In 1978 the party that became a protest started on Darlinghurst road and in 2022 it returns. We’ve come a long way since those days and and for two weeks (Thursday 17th February through to Sunday 6th March), Mardi Gras returns to the Cross to celebrate our LGBTQI community in camp sophistication and glamour amidst the neon.
From bottomless brunches and alfresco dining to cabaret shows and cosy cocktail dens. Retail offerings, history talks and walks or live music, viewing parties and art exhibitions, in 2022 all that glitters will be gold. There’s so much to do from Oxtravaganza to the Glittering Mile this Mardi Gras, so come join the party.
Kick off on Thursday 17th February at ‘Shop Late’ as you stroll the neighbourhood and check out the local style stakes - start with a shopping expedition and finish with a cocktail, a quick snack, or a 5 star meal.
Over the next two weeks take in some art, find a new favourite bar or come to a show. On the night of the Parade, Mardi Gras viewing parties will be at different venues, with fun hostessing and some performances as the parade goes on - it’s next best thing to being there!
