Madame Brussels Review

Review by Kate Reynolds

What would you get if you fell down the rabbit hole into Alice’s Wonderland, and the Mad Hatter invited you over for four-point sandwiches and cheeky jugs of cocktails (to share, of course!) in between casual games of tennis on his pristine lawn?

The rabbit-hole is a lift hidden away on the top end of Bourke St, and the wonderland is Madame Brussels. Upon entering, you are greeted with romantic fairy lights, floral cushions on white wrought-iron chairs and plastic grass instead of carpet. Wait staff done up in cute tennis shorts and skirts dart about, luring you in as they carry enormous jugs of colourful cocktails to eagerly waiting patrons.

Pretty pink menus list the seasonal cocktails, including favourites (like Mai Tai’s) and twists on the classics (Prussian Iced Tea anyone?) as well as house specials. The Pimm’s jug is listed first on the menu, and is highly recommended by bar staff. A jug to share between two is $30, and between four is $50. A snack menu is also available, including a French cheese platter, dips, toasted four point sandwiches, and even lemon sponge cupcakes or chocolate fondue!

Early on in the evening there is table service where you can either sit inside amongst the pretend grass, outside on the large, uncovered balcony with plenty or seats, or upstairs on the terrace. As the night continues though, Madame Brussels becomes a chaotic flurry as the venue fills up, and seats can be a luxury hard to come by as casual afternoon three-pieces disperse and give way to partygoers in high heels and cocktail dresses. If crowds aren’t your thing and you’re after a quick and relaxing drink without having to queue up at the bar, it’s best to get there fairly early to avoid the late-night rush and scramblings for sitting space.

Madame Brussels is open 12pm until 1am every day of the week; perfect whether you’re looking for a light luncheon, a relaxing after-work drink or a fun girl’s night out. What’s more, you can organise a ‘Spring Garden Package’ for small parties and events; food and spring punch from $38 per person. It is recommended that for any package that bookings are made prior.

If you are looking to escape from the grey-blur of the city for an adventure of your own, filled with cocktails, cute waiters and dainty food, then Madame Brussels is definitely the wonderland you’ve been searching for. Just remember to avoid any strangle bottle of liquids next to tiny doors, and if a frantic rabbit tells you he is running very late, it may be time to embark on the adventure home.



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