Inspired by the fashion and design icons of the 1960s, Soirée is a hip new contemporary bar at Sofitel Sydney Wentworth.

According to the hotel, Soirée “pays tribute to both the rich heritage of the Wentworth – launched as the first 5-star hotel in Sydney in 1966 – as well as Sofitel’s unique heritage born in the heart of Paris”.

Sofitel Pacific Vice President and General Manager for Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Ian Alexandre, who joined 150 partygoers to officially open the new lounge recently (Feb 20) said the result is a classic cocktail of effortless elegance and chic comfort.

“Soirée is at once understated, modernist and urbane,” he said. “It has been designed with a contemporary yet retro appeal that invites both celebration and good conversation.”

Drawing inspiration from the hotel’s bold 20th century architecture, created in the mid 1960s by Skidmore Owings and Merril (the US architects behind Chicago’s Sears Tower), the Joseph Pang-designed bar has placed a contemporary face on a heritage-listed hotel.

“Hotel bars can be so serious, so we wanted to have fun with Soirée and channel the playfulness of the 1960s,” Alexandre said.

“It’s a sophisticated space, with a broad curve wall and bronzed finishes and overhead lamps that evoke the distinct style of the swinging 60s.

“I think we’ve successfully paid homage to the original Wentworth’s origins, whilst still updating with a fresh, modern finish that links in with the rest of the hotel’s polished look and feel,” he said.

Described by Alexandre as, “perfect for the after five rat race”, Soirée’s 60s inspired bar menu of finger food and more satisfying light meals is a mix of kitsch and classic cuisine.

Options range from devilled eggs, shrimp cocktails, fondue and French onion dips to more luxe and high-end options such as caviar, oysters and lobster; or charcuterie and cheeses platters with Serrano ham, Chorizo, dried sausage and pickles.

More substantial offerings for lunch or dinner include Croque Monsieur, fish and chips, Wagyu burger with fries or quiche and salad.

In addition to its cocktail bar and 60s styled booth seating, Soirée also features a clever ‘cachette’ (which translates from French to mean ‘hiding place’), which can be closed into a small private space available for up to 15 guests.

Featuring live entertainment every Friday night, the bar is also strongly aligned with the hotel’s many arts partners to bring the arts and culture experience to life within the hotel.