CLANCY OVERELL | Editor | CONTACT
In a matter of hours, Sydney’s hospitality workers will endure their first Friday night crowd since New South Wales was released from the gruelling 16 week lockdown of 2021.
Right across the Harbour City, bartenders and waiters are being currently briefed by their managers, aheads of an onslaught of manic and thirsty energy.
With strict rules around bookings and patron capacity, there is expected to be a lot of fireworks surrounding the city’s long-awaited return to nightlife.
While the ‘eye of the storm’ atmosphere currently gripped pubs and restaurants in NSW is mostly one of excitement – industry professionals are also keeping a close eye out for red flags.
A red flag could include a large group of only boys, or only girls.
Or it could include an overly long booking.
Or it could be the name that the booking was made under.
One Kings Cross wine bar manager, Rachel, says she’s just been met with all three.
“Fuck” she says.
“I’v just spotted an eight-hour booking for six under Bianca.”
“Speaking from experience, that’s a real party girl name”
“I really should have put some time limits on these bookings. This group are preparing to spend the equivalent of an entire work day drinking wine on wooden chairs”
As Rachel applies her war paint, she says she’s hoping that this group includes a few couples at least.
“Usually a buzz-kill husband, or a prude girlfriend can bring the energy down to a more manageable level”
“But if it’s all girls. We are in for some strife…”
Rachel shudders as she thinks about the modern day Battle of Dunkirk that lies ahead of her.
“Actually, all girls isn’t the worst case scenario”
“If it’s 4 girls, and their two gay besties… Then I might have to give the cops a heads up”
