Love Tilly Devine, celebrates Sydney’s less salubrious history. The bar is named after Matilda ‘Tilly’ Devine, the notorious Sydney crime figure involved in sly grog, prostitution and razor gangs. Name aside, the only thing criminal about this sly grog joint is how damn good it is.

Nestled down the end of Darlinghurst’s grungy Crown Lane, this intimate new wine bar would shine brightly regardless of its location. But we think there’s something to be said for the sense of adventure had in trying to find the place.

Opening right onto the laneway, Love Tilly Devine is all low exposed beams and recycled wood with hand built character and charm. The place is cute – darned cute.  Licensed for just 38 this new bar is one of the smallest in Sydney, but packs an impressive food and wine offering.

The vino is the most adventurous you’ll find outside of a three hat restaurant, minus the price-tag. We tried some newbie’s including the 2003 Rippon Osteiner from Central Otago. The hybrid varietal displays Riesling characteristics yet was still vibrant and fresh. Another stand out was the First Drop ‘The Big Blind’ Nebbiolo from Adelaide Hills – fleshy and plumy and a steal at just $10 a glass.

There is of course the wine friendly food offering – how does Duck Liver Pate with Sweet & Sour Onions served with Iggy’s Bread sound?  Or, what about the melt in your mouth Pino’s Prosciutto?

Love Tilly Devine? We certainly did.

Notes -

Where: 91 Crown Lane, Darlinghurst

Opening Hours: Tuesday – Saturday, 4pm till midnight

More info: www.lovetillydevine.com