On Thursday, 2 November, Busby’s Wine and Record Bar will open its doors at Oxford House in Paddington. Spearheaded by Mike Bennie from P&V Merchants, the bar will offer an impressive collection of wines, highlighting selections from various Australian, French, and Italian producers. Standout choices include the French Le Juice Gamay Beaujolais and the NSW-based Chateau Acid Chardonnay Central Highlands.
Read more: November Two Good Chef of the Month
The short and punchy cocktail menu is crafted by Paolo Maffietti from Maybe Sammy and features five signature cocktails, including Abbey Road (Citrus Gin, Vermouth Bianco, Davidson Plum, Champagne) and Megatone (Grappa, Tequila, Ginger Wine, Pastis), paying homage to the venue’s HiFi inspiration.

“We wanted to create something truly unique with the cocktail menu – these cocktails are all designed to be classics in their own right”, says Stefano Catino, Director of Hospitality, PUBLIC. “Created Aperitivo style and crafted in 3-4 steps, the cocktail list at Busby’s reflecting our minimalist and no-nonsense approach. As a natural wine and Hi-Fi bar, we focus on flavour and origin of ingredients, and our cocktails embody Busby’s cool, laid-back feel”.
The bar menu is overseen by Creative Culinary Director Clayton Wells, a renowned Australian chef (formerly of Automata), and Busby’s Head Chef, Brendon Bullock. The menu, characterised by shared plates, is contemporary Australian and changes with the seasons. Some highlights from the opening menu include Sydney Rock Oyster with Blackberry Vinegar & Roasted Kelp Oil, Chicken Liver Parfait with Spiced Pineapple and Liquorice, and Yellowfin Tuna Crudo with Grilled Watermelon and Kefir Cream.
Sydney’s latest wine and HiFi bar promises to be a relaxed and approachable venue. Hosting an array of curated events, the venue offers an extended, 5-hour residency on Thursdays starting from the launch on 2 November, featuring Jonti from Stones Throw Records. Additionally, guests can enjoy regular sessions on Fridays with renowned DJs such as The Santamaria Brothers and Millie, a former London resident of Secret Sundaze. Saturdays are dedicated to playing complete vinyl albums from around the world without interruption.
- Where: Busby’s Wine and Record Bar, Oxford House Hotel, at 21 Oxford St, Paddington.
- When: Monday-Saturday 5pm-11pm from 2 November 2023.