Nothing can stop the machine that is Merivale with the hospitality group announcing yet another new member to its portfolio. This time it’s a new addition to The Ivy’s dining precinct, Palings Lane, where tapas space Bar Topa will set up shop. Led by Lauren Murdoch, the original head chef at neighbouring Felix, the intimate venue has been inspired by casual Spanish eateries.

Bar Topa will focus an ever-changing menu developed in collaboration between Murdoch and executive chef Jordan Toft. It will be short and sweet, served to a maximum of forty standing guests and the few stools that fit within the space. With an emphasis on the casual, Bar Topa has had ample influence from the Spanish coast, and will be a venue where guests are encouraged to drop in for a quick drink and a few snacks before heading for a main elsewhere.  

“Bar Topa will be the perfect pit stop for someone on the go, but who still wants to enjoy the pleasures that food and wine play in one’s day, and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere in close quarters,” says Toft. “They don’t mind squeezing to the front of the line to grab a glass and pick some snacks to share with the friends they’ve just met.”

There will be two distinct sides to the food offering. On one hand there will be a selection of small bites and snacks available on the counter; think sliced jamón on crisp bread or whipped salted cod. Just like in Spain, guests will be able to simply point at what they like. There will also be a selection of tapas-style dishes available, cooked on ‘la plancha’, a Spanish metal grill. There will be chorizo, cuttlefish with parsley, garlic and olive oil, whole sardines, patatas bravas and grilled vegetables, among options. Drinks are to be served as half-size pours accompanied by a range of cocktails, all priced at $8. Sangria will of course also be available, with beers served as miniatures at $4.

It being a Merivale venue, no expense has been spared on Bar Topa’s interiors. A collaboration between Justin and Bettina Hemmes, stylist Amanda Talbot and interior designer George Livissianis, the venue has been designed as a contemporary interpretation on the authentic tapas bar. Rich timber, earthy terracotta, and green terrazzo bar tops have been splashed throughout.

Bar Topa
4 Palings Lane, Sydney
merivale.com.au/bartopa