The iconic Double Deuce Lounge, once the vibrant heart of Bridge Street's nightlife, is set to pour its final drinks, leaving a void in the city's social scene. But why is this beloved bar, crowned Bar of the Year in 2025, shutting its doors? The answer lies in the changing landscape of post-pandemic Sydney, where the work-from-home culture has dealt a heavy blow to Friday night revelry. And it's not just Double Deuce; the northern CBD precinct is witnessing an exodus of hospitality venues.
"The buzz is gone," laments Sebastian 'Cosmo' Soto, co-owner of Double Deuce, reflecting on the stark contrast between pre- and post-COVID Fridays. The lounge, named after the legendary dive bar in the Patrick Swayze classic, 'Road House', is now facing the harsh reality of a new economic era. But here's where it gets controversial: is the work-from-home trend to blame, or is there more to the story?
The decline in Friday trade, a whopping one-third, has left a significant dent in the bar's finances. This loss could have covered essential expenses, from staff wages to utility bills. As the pandemic reshaped work patterns, the once-bustling CBD now faces a quieter reality, especially on Mondays and Fridays. Former Rockpool head chef Mike McEnearney, who opened Kitchen by Mike in 2019, echoes this sentiment. His restaurant, which thrived on high-volume traffic, is now grappling with the new normal.
The shift is evident as venues adapt to survive. Korean fine-dining restaurant Allta, despite not relying on the spontaneity of business lunches, has also relocated from Bridge Street to Surry Hills, seeking the vibrant atmosphere it needs. This begs the question: is the CBD losing its allure, or is it simply evolving?
As Double Deuce prepares for its final days on Bridge Street, Soto remains hopeful for a pre-Christmas surge. The bar's journey reflects a broader trend in Sydney's hospitality scene, where venues must navigate the challenges of a post-pandemic world. Will the city's nightlife ever be the same? Only time will tell.
What do you think about the changing nature of city nightlife? Are these closures a sign of a permanent shift, or just a temporary adjustment? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the future of our beloved city's social scene.
