PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAThe Different Drummer has been pounding out its unique beat since 1970, when eccentric characters from all walks of life used to darken its Darlinghurst doorway. A move to Glebe in the early nineties did nothing to dampen the deliciously bohemian soul of the joint, but recent years have seen a change in the Different Drummer. It’s like a coming of age that has smoothed the edges of the Drummer’s crazy youth, yet retained enough spark to remind you that this place was the scene of some hedonistic pursuits over the years. The decor is as sultry as the Drummer’s past; think dark boudoir style banquettes, sexy little corners and a gloriously opulent peacock sculpture in the courtyard. When Jim Morrison sang of L.A. women in tapas bars, this is what he had in mind.
Being a cocktail lounge and tapas bar, your first point of call at the Different Drummer ought to be the very well-stocked altar of a bar, which is crowned by a toy train set swishing overhead. The cocktail list has some inspired concoctions on offer: the Raspberry Beret is something to sing about with organic vodka, Chambord, lime and raspberry juice, and the mojitos are worth a sip or two as well. Soak it up with plates of grilled chorizo dressed with cherry tomatoes and basil; steamed asparagus spears wrapped in prosciutto, topped with fresh parmesan shards and bearnaise sauce; or be wicked and go for the sliced eye fillet, served pink with a blue cheese and vodka sauce. March to the Drummer’s beat for a happy hour and a half from 6pm daily for cocktail specials.
Amy Looker, December 2007
