Step into Intermission, a modern ode to the 1950s espresso and wine bars that once defined ³Ô¹ÏÍø’s theatre district. Set within the lobby of luxury hotel Le Méridien ³Ô¹ÏÍø, the space pays homage to its past life as the St James Theatre & Metro, with a bar designed to evoke an Art Deco cinema foyer.

By day, baristas pour award-winning Axil Coffee alongside freshly baked pastries, cakes and a small menu of classics – including a croque monsieur and a steak sandwich with a cult following. Located right next door to the Princess Theatre, it’s an easy stop for lunch, matinees or pre-show drinks.

As dusk settles, Intermission shifts into a dimly lit wine bar with a curated list and bar menu. The fried calamari with smoked whipped ricotta is a local favourite, especially with a crisp glass of rosé. Insider tip: on Fridays from 5pm, the bar runs its cult all-you-can-eat $2 oysters with the purchase of a drink.