Nola Smokehouse & Bar - Barangaroo

I’ve got to admit the food was very good however the whole experience was ruined by forcing gratuity (a tip) upon us and automatically adding it to the bill. It was explained to us that it insured the staff are fairly compensated for their work. I was always under the belief that was the employers responsibility to pay them fairly, not gouge it out of customers. So by this admission, is the employer under paying them? It should be my choice to tip for good service and not forced on us undeservedly. Who knows if the staff actually receive anything

Review: I had a mixed experience at NOLA. The ambiance and the views were lovely, but the food was just average, nothing stood out. But what really put a sour note on the evening was the 10% gratuity fee added to our bill. It was not clearly communicated, and it felt like a forced tip, regardless of the level of service provided.

For me, the bar is Nola's strong point. There's a great selection of whiskeys and very nice wines. The service in the bar and restaurant is excellent, attentive but not intrusive. This was our first meal at Nola and it started with Michelin star worthy, white bait on toast and Kingfish tartare on pancake. just magnificent and fresh! A first for us were the smoked meats. The pork neck and brisket were very tasty. The brisket was lovely and pull apart but the pork was dry. Both were served at just above room temperature. Maybe its a smoked meat thing but I like my food to be warmer.

We only went for drinks and tasting. The service and recommendations were great. Barman, Curtis organised a personalised whiskey tasting and was really knowledgeable. We'll be back and next time for food as well

The staff, the atmosphere, the food, the bar, all of it just goes! The staff that greet you are happy, friendly and super efficient. Whether it be at your table for dinner or the bar staff for drinks. We had the corn bread, sampler meat dishes, the brisket and all was 11 out of 10 for flavour! The cocktails were yum, especially the hurricane! and the old fashions were the best I've ever tasted! After dinner we sat in the bar lounge area and listened to some live rhythm n blues music and some after dinner bourbons to finish the evening off. The bar staff are very experienced with the bourbons so if you know what you like but haven't tried some (there's hundreds to choose from! just ask them, they know what they're doing. We've been here a few times and it never dissapoints. I wish I lived nearer and would make this a regular weekend visit. Throughly recommend.