The Absent Ear

Tucked into Merchant City on Brunswick Street, The Absent Ear is a speakeasy-cocktail bar that’s as much art instalment as it is drinking destination. Opened in 2021, the bar draws inspiration from Vincent van Gogh—especially his missing ear—and builds around the idea that cocktails can be creative expressions. Think moody lighting, immersive design touches, playful interactivity, and a menu crafted to surprise. The drink menu is a rotating, immersive gallery of flavours. Cocktails are divided into “minimalist” and “maximalist” side of the menu: minimalist ones tend to be more restrained, elegant; maximalist ones are bolder, layered, theatrical. Drinks like Fragola-Rama (a strawberry-centric cocktail using cryo-concentration, lacto-fermentation, etc.), Roobarb & Custard (a nostalgic dessert-inspired showstopper), and even a Thai green curry-inspired cocktail are examples of how far the creativity goes. Entering feels theatrical: there’s a neon staircase, a concealed or subtle entrance (behind curtains / via a hidden bell or hatch) and a ritual of discovery. The bar avoids being pretentious, though—it balances high concept with warm service, so even the boldest drinks feel friendly. Staff are knowledgeable and tend to treat you like part of the experience. Music tends to support the mood: ambient / lounge / curated. The crowd? Mixed: date-nighters, cocktail enthusiasts, locals looking for something a bit special.