By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
The Negroni has earned its iconic status worldwide. This September, Sydney’s YCK Laneways is putting the classic Campari cocktail - and all its incarnations - at the heart of the Harbour City with inventive recipes, immersive experiences and live performances spilling across the entertainment precinct between Town Hall and Wynyard.
Traditionally celebrated during a single week in late September as part of the global Negroni Week initiative, Campari and YCK are turning the dial up, stretching the festivities across the entire month.
That means more chances to sip, savour and discover a fresh take on one of the world’s most beloved cocktails. Each participating venue will serve a classic Negroni alongside two bespoke variations, with several also offering non-alcoholic alternatives for those who prefer to skip the booze.
YCK Laneways is a collective of independently operated bars, restaurants and creative spaces spanning York, Clarence and Kent Streets. Known for its vibrant energy, industrial heritage and hidden gems, the precinct is home to cocktail lounges behind unassuming doors, small bars in restored carriageways and dining destinations that make the most of every laneway nook.
During Negroni Month, these venues come alive with a program of activations including burlesque, live music, Negroni masterclasses, precinct tours and theatrical mixology experiences.
Some of the city’s favourite haunts are getting in on the action. Burrow Bar, Esteban, Kahii, Button Bar, Kuro Bar and Dining, Lucille’s, Papa Gede’s Bar, Roast Republic, Since I Left You, Stitch Bar, The Barber Shop, The Duke of Clarence, Vina Bar, Jolene’s, Little National, Local Sauce Tours, PS40, Next Door Restaurant & Bar, Cash Only Diner and Uncle Ming’s will all be offering their own unique spins on the Negroni. Expect everything from bold citrus twists to herbaceous surprises and smoky, barrel-aged renditions.
Karl Schlothauer, Vice President of YCK Laneways, says the month-long celebration is designed to cater to both seasoned Negroni lovers and the curious:
"Whether you’re a Negroni purist or new to the drink, Negroni Month at YCK Laneways is a chance to showcase our precinct’s creativity, community and love of this classic. After all, there’s no Negroni without Campari.”
Beyond the cocktails, Negroni Month is an invitation to explore the precinct in style. Discover tucked-away bars, enjoy live music while you sip, learn the secrets behind the perfect mix at masterclasses and soak in the theatrics of roaming performers.
Whether it’s a work catch-up, a weekend date or a solo evening of (responsible!) indulgence, this is the month to wander the laneways with a cocktail in hand and let Sydney’s creative energy sweep you along - as September shapes up to be one of Sydney’s most stylish and spirited months yet!
