Vasco
Surry Hills, Australia
Most themed bars try to remove incongruities. Vasco basks in them. Named after 1980s Italian rock star Vasco Rossi, this Sydney-area establishment has its roots in cocktails — the founder Max Greco was formerly the head bartender at Eau-de-Vie — but blends its high-brow mixology with a rock-n-roll vibe that includes Fender bar stools, a killer jukebox, bathroom walls lined with records, and photos on the wall from famed rock photographer Ross Halfin. If that wasn't enough, the place also features a kitchen cranking out a short but satisfying menu of Italian fare, ranging from brushetta and calamari to Italian-style hot dogs and gnocchi with bolognese.
