While Dear Darnell’s is billed as a contemporary bistro it’s got the vibes of a village-pub-come-small bar, hooking locals well beyond up-and-coming Witchcliffe.
A part of the years-long renovation of the Old Darnell’s Store, housing Witchy Brews Espresso Bar, creative retail businesses and the Amato Vino tasting room, Dear Darnell’s adds to the eclectic mix. The aesthetic is reclaimed and vintage throughout, from the stained glass to the central circular bar. It all adds to the vibe that this watering hole has been in situ for many years, not months.
The décor might say this is a place to sink a few local beers, like their own Darnell’s Lager, but the cocktail offering is strong from seasonal additions to the list, and rusted on classics like an Old Fashioned, Negroni or a Dark and Stormy. As you’d expect there’s wine from the neighbours at Amato Vino, as well as locals Si Vintners, McHenry Hohnen, Arlewood and South by Southwest. At the heart of the Dear Darnell’s kitchen is a wood fired oven that’s quickly gained them a reputation for their pizza game. Looking for a country pub classic? The woodfired chicken parmigiana with macadamia pesto and fries should be on your down south to do list.
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