Long time local Charles Butler-Bowden has created a place that could quickly become the go-to hangout for locals - serving world-class coffee during the day and offering an extensive cocktail list as soon as the sun passes the yardarm.
The interior design would be described as 'deconstructed' which, in this instance, says "look honey, I'm halfway through the renovations, but think I'll stop for a drink"..... It's a mix of rough hewn walls, Broadhurst-style wallpaper, kitsch memorabilia and comfy club leather chairs. It works!
Oh and did we mention the local historical book collection?
Whisper offers a laid-back vibe, the staff are friendly and knowledgable and patrons can either sit by the large open window and watch the passing street parade or hide themselves in the secluded lounge nook.
There's an entertaining collection of R-rated retro movie posters, original works by pop artist Denis Roper and memorabilia donated by local collectors. It's saucy and sassy and truly capturing the essence of the Cross that's, sadly, relegated to memory nowadays.
Also on display are covers from the sixties naughty-newsrag Whisper...... my favourite story concerns a local little old lady who popped in one day, pointed to a racy picture and announced to Charles "that's me!" Oh, if these walls could talk!
One night that's proving to be extremely popular at Whisper is the monthly One Deck DJ Sessions, heaven for vinyl junkies and music lovers alike. Each month a guest selector chooses two albums that have heavily influenced them, changed their lives in some way or played a significant role in the soundtrack to their lives. It's an album they want to share with you and then tell you why they love it.
No fancy mixing involved, just popping the album on the turntable, lowering the needle and playing it through [how old-school!]. It's a listening party with a difference. Last month was the esteemed Steve Kilby [The Church].
In August - that's this Thursday - it's local author and columnist Mandy Sayer. [Mandy co-edited this fab book].
WHISPER is open sunrise to 10pm Sunday to Thursday
with late 2am closing on Friday and Saturday nights....
WHISPER ARTICLE REGARDING NEW YEARS EVE FESTIVITIES IN KINGS CROSS......
"The Sydney City Council has decided to put man-eating piranha fish in the El Alamein fountain at Kings Cross. Revellers traditionally jump into the fountain every New Year's Eve. 'This should add to the fun of our next New Year's Eve'..."
(Kings Cross Whisper, No. 29)
best cocktails on the strip by far :)
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