The Stoned Crow

LOCATION
On Willoughby Road in Crows Nest, in Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
Yes, the name does seem to suggest nefarious qualities, but try to fight past this impression. This Crows Nest stalwart is actually quite a classy place. Having seen a couple of refurbishments which got rid of some of its more questionable characteristics – like the front wall, disco lights and its reputation as the local “cougar dive” – The Stoned Crow was reborn as a smart wine and cocktail bar. If you swing by you’ll find a relaxed space that is a bit confused in its decorative genre. Split into two areas by three steps and a drastic change in furniture, The Stoned Crow boasts a front section filled with library-style studded leather couches, white ottomans, low chestnut coffee tables and views onto Willoughby Road and a retro back half complete with a well-equipped bar and tables.

When it comes to food, expect quality pub-grub for a price that will blow your socks off. That is, most items fall around the $10 mark and all will give you change from $20. Starters, nibblers, entrees – however you prefer to treat them – include olives marinated in rosemary, chilli, citrus and spices and avocado dip with oven-baked crisps. The mains selection goes over token options like chicken schnitzels, steak sandwiches (made classier with the addition of caramelised onion and tomato chutney) as well as steaks, burgers and fish. Where The Stoned Crow finds its creativity, however, is in the beverage menu. Other than a decent selection of well-priced wine, beer and spirits, there is a great range of cocktails. These include classics alongside custom creations like “purple haze” which mixes vanilla syrup with blueberries and sparkling wine and the “stoned sling” (a mix of raspberries, blueberries, vodka, blueberry liqueur, cranberry juice and fresh lime). Try them, you won’t be disappointed.

Agnes Gajewska