Old fossils fit in at this bar

THE full skeleton of an 244cm cave bear will be a special feature at a new high-end spirits bar to open on Hobart’s waterfront this spring.

Evolve Spirits Bar will be a sophisticated lounge space at MACq 01 Hotel, filled with a collection of rare fossils and artefacts from around the world.

In addition to the huge cave bear, the bar will also include a giant pig skull and prehistoric deep sea fish fossils, to be displayed in glass cabinets throughout the space.

MACq 01 Hotel restaurant and bars manager Elizabeth Thomas said the quirky bar would serve more than 100 spirits.

“The fossils are intended to reflect human curiosity and appetite for discovery — the same drive that ignites the world’s master-distillers in crafting fine spirits,” she said.

“Evolve lounge bar will showcase the finest spirits from around the world and celebrate Tasmania’s emergence as an international heavyweight in spirit distilling.

“While The Story Bar has an energetic atmosphere, Evolve Spirits Bar will be a more intimate lounge setting, where guests are invited to come for a drink before an event and after work or dinner.”

Evolve Spirits Bar has a budget of about $1 million for its fit-out, not including the collection of fossils.

The lounge bar, which will include personalised table service and deck seating, is expected to open in early October and will create eight to 10 new hospitality jobs in the city.