Cocktails & Dreams

In a bout of organisation (by other people, of course), I recently found myself catching up with some old school buddies at the hallowed grounds of West End.

We kicked off at the Lychee Lounge - one of the most terrifyingly chic establishments in all of Bris Vegas. Fortunately, because we'd come quite early, the Lounge wasn't totally jumping yet, so my fears were somewhat allayed.

A short squizz of the extensive cocktail list and we'd each chosen our poison. I'd thoroughly recommend my 'Turkish Delight', with genuine rosewater and everything. Very lovely. And very pink. Certainly calmed my nerves, which were a little on edge due to the barbie-doll-head chandeliers...

Aaanyway, the stomach grumblies soon called for a mosey over to the Ottoman Cafe, just 'round the corner by the Gunshop Cafe. I'd wanted to go to the Ottoman for ages, having long admired its cute fairy lights and Aegian blue glass, so I was extremely happy by this turn of events.

Not surprisingly, the Ottoman's offerings were lamb, lamb, lamb, chicken and lamb. And the vegetarian option was beef ravioli. Odd. Still, the meal was great and the entertainment entertaining - featuring a charming (but not overly useful) French Turkish waiter, and a crazy-arsed 'hips don't lie' belly dancer.

Oh, and for the record, everyone should try hot Turkish apple tea some time. I like apples. I like tea. I REALLY like apple tea - even after I spilled it all over the table and it had to be mopped up by the hot French Turkish waiter. (Oh. Did I neglect to mention how hot he was before? Hmm...)

Still, leaving the fair shores of the Otto behind, we made a short cross to every late-20-something Brisbanite's sentimental favourite, the Three Monkeys. A few biscuits and soup-sized chais later, it was time to call it a night - but not before a quick sighting of Mutto from 2006 Aus Idol. Wow.

Who would have thought anyone could pack so much manic liquid chaos into one night, huh? I, for one, am well impressed with myself. We are wicked kewl.