The Three Blue Ducks team has launched their fifth venue, opening Locura – a late night bar offering – in Byron Bay.
Chefs and co-owners, Darren Robertson, Andy Allen, Mark LaBrooy, Chris Sorrell, Sam Reid and Jeff Bennett recently visited LA and Mexico for inspiration on vibrant and flavoursome Latin American cuisine.
It was local mescal producer, Eduardo Angeles of La Locura in Oaxaca, who predominately influenced their inspiration for Locura, through his knowledge, passion and close connection to the land.
Locura’s menu showcases a variety of smaller style plates influenced by a blend of Mexican, Costa Rican and Peruvian cuisine. Dishes include a selection of cold and hot options including fried corn and chickpeas, oysters, ceviches, tacos and salads.
Award-winning bartender Tim Philips (Dead Ringer and Bulletin Place) has joined forces with the Locura team to create a cocktail list to complement the food offering, described as “simple, fun, fresh and flavoursome”.
With over 17 years’ experience in hospitality, Tim has honed his craft in multiple cities and the best bars around the world and for this bar, has created an eclectic cocktail list including Mezcal-based mules with kombucha, a take on the classic Mexican favourite Michelada, and homemade Tepache – a fermented pineapple beverage made using the leftover pineapple skins from juicing at The Farm.
The wine list will feature a compact selection of international organic, biodynamic and natural wines, with a smattering of South American wines. A combination of local and international beers will be available by the bottle, with all beers on tap rotating regularly to showcase a selection of some of Australia’s best craft beers and ciders.
The décor draws on the minimalistic modern bars of Mexico City, and there will be a strong focus on music at the venue – the existing sound system hybridized by DJ Jono Ma with a retro horn and amp hi-fi system called the Klipschorn.
With a capacity of 350, Locura will play host to a range of functions and events, and officially opened last Friday (26 October).
