Hobart's newest drinking venue will set the bar high

Hobart's new Tasman Hotel, part of Marriott's Luxury Collection, will be home to a cocktail bar with a difference. 

Mary Mary will be run by cocktail and spirits creatives Proof & Company, with awarded drinks slinger Charlie Ainsbury behind the bar when it opens later this year. 

The name Mary Mary stems from the origin of the building in which it resides, the former St Mary's hospital dating back to the late 1800s, now reimagined as part of The Tasman and Parliament Square, located in the heart of the city. 

Ainsbury (above) will bring over 17 years' experience in some of the top cocktail bars across the world, including This Must Be the Place, Eau de Vie and Bulletin Place in Sydney and The Diamond in Vancouver.

“Hobart's food and drinks culture has long commanded global attention and attracts a discerning customer seeking a compelling experience, which offers us an impressive foundation to build upon,” Ainsbury says. 

“Mary Mary will be a celebration of and dedication to the abundance of exceptional ingredients, spirits and liquors of Tasmania and Australia, with an experience curated for the appreciator of a fine beverage. 

"Most importantly, we want to create a drinking den with a sense of discovery that feels inviting and convivial for our guests.”

Proof & Company is behind a portfolio of some of the top globally acclaimed bars, of which six venues are ranked amongst the World's 50 Best Bars, including their cornerstone venue 28 Hong Kong Street (Singapore), Manhattan Bar (Singapore), ATLAS (Singapore), Pontiac (Hong Kong) and Charles H (Seoul).

“As the first and only representative of The Luxury Collection brand in Australia with the upcoming opening of The Tasman, we are proud to deepen our connection to the unique local character of Hobart with Mary Mary,” says Stephen Morahan, general manager for The Tasman.

“This venue will be a beacon to the world of fine drinking here in Tasmania, joining a collection of the world's most notable hospitabilty experiences. Our vision is for Mary Mary to enchant both locals and travellers in the know, guided by the passion and expertise of Charlie and Proof & Company.”