Polēpolē

When most people think of Africa, they can’t help but think of horrible atrocities like poverty and famine. Melbourne’s latest new bar, the African themed Polēpolē, is the complete opposite of those things.

Owners Dean and Jeanelle Mariani have replaced The Kitten Club with Polēpolē, a small, intimate bar that would only be able to fit a small amount of people, but this place isn’t about getting packed. Australia’s as far away from Africa as you could imagine, and there’s not of a lot African influence in our country, so seeing a place like Polēpolē is refreshing.

Naturally, most of Polēpolē’s food and drink menus are African. With brews ranging from all over such Kenya, Ethiopia, South Africa, Mauritius and Namibia, you’re spoiled for choice. There are of course Australian drinks on offer too, but wouldn’t you rather try something you’ve probably never had before? On that note, part of the sales of African beers and ciders goes to two separate Africa-related charities, the YGAP and Women For Women In Africa. Drinking for charity, what’ not to like!

There’s also some great food at Polēpolē. I was fortunate enough to try some corn and chickpea cakes and “cigars” containing pork, almond and cinnamon. Yum-yum!

So if you’re wanting to go out to a classy place for a few drinks, but want something different from the average bar, Polēpolē is a great choice.

Polēpolē
Level 1, 267 Little Collins Street, Melbourne
polepolebar.com.au