Adelaide has a new cocktail bar, and it has brought a serious dose of disco glamour with it.
Velvet Violet opened above the Wakefield Hotel last Saturday, transforming the pub’s upstairs space into a colourful late-night destination built around cocktails, live entertainment and big nights out.
Designed to feel like a world of its own, the new venue combines old-school glamour with a playful, modern edge.
Think gold ceilings, purple and black walls, neon lights and a gold mirror ball, with the overall aesthetic drawing inspiration from the 70s and 80s.
Cocktails are at the heart of Velvet Violet, with the venue’s name inspired by the 23rd Street Violet Gin Sour, a signature drink created by general manager Gerry Ebert.
The concept has been years in the making, with Gerry spending the past decade working in hospitality while holding onto plans for his own bar.
The opportunity came when he joined the Wakefield Hotel earlier this year and began working with owners Pat and Josh to transform the upstairs space.
Velvet Violet also takes inspiration from Adelaide’s former cocktail institution La Bohème on Grote Street.
The French cocktail bar was an important part of Gerry’s early years in Adelaide, and its influence has helped shape the new venue’s focus on creating a place where people can celebrate milestones and make memories.
Entertainment is another major part of the experience, with drag, cabaret and burlesque joining jazz, DJs and acoustic performances across the program.
Inclusivity is also central to the concept, with Velvet Violet designed as a welcoming space where everyone can feel comfortable.
While the upstairs venue has its own distinct personality, it remains connected to the Wakefield Hotel downstairs, giving guests the option to move between the two spaces.
After years of planning and months of work transforming the upstairs space, Velvet Violet is now officially open.
If opening night is anything to go by, the bar is certain to liven up Adelaide’s entertainment scene.
“A massive thank you to everyone who packed out Velvet Violet last night and brought the energy!”, a jubilant facebook post read.
“This was one for the books, but we’re just getting started. Keep an eye on our socials so you don’t miss our next massive event!”
