Australian comedian, actor and writer Nikki Britton has a new show Not To Be Dramatic which is now on as part of the Melbourne International Comedy Festival. You’ll know her from appearing on Have You Been Paying Attention?, Guy Montgomery’s Spelling Bee and soon in the upcoming second season of Amazon’s Deadloch – a black murderous comedy that has swapped the depths of Tasmania for filming to the hot top of Northern Territory and Brisbane this time around. If those accolades aren’t enough – she’s about to star in the world premiere of Yve Blake’s new play Mackenzie for Bell Shakespeare.
Nikki Britton spoke to The Write Drop for our At The Bar series.
MY CITY
I live in Manly, Sydney. The salty air mixed with the vibrant village energy makes it a very special pocket in the big city. I love walking my dog along the beach front and ducking into one of the many cafes and eateries along the corso. There is a marine reserve if you like to snorkel or scuba dive and a variety of beaches, both surf and harbour, within walking distance of each other. The bar scene is second to none, with truly something for everyone. My current fave is Henry G’s, but the Lilly Pilly sour at the secret prohibition bar, The Cumberland is also a staple.
FAVOURITE FOOD MEMORY
I studied at a Clown School in Paris (which has become a punchline in itself at this point). When I was living there I made it my mission to try as many créme bruleés as I could afford. Or ingest. It was during Parisienne summer, where the sun doesn’t set until 10pm and the warm breeze through the cool streets makes everyone a little giddy. At the end of the day I would crack the toffee top of another perfect dessert and there was something about that whole sensory memory that makes creme brulee synonymous with pleasure.
FAVOURITE BAR
I travel a lot, so my favourite bar is the closest one that serves a great Lychee Martini or Amaretto Sour. I have tasted them from Broome to Burnie and I’ve never met one I didn’t like!
DRINK THAT DESCRIBES YOU
A French 75. Bubbly, sweet but deceptively strong.
BEST HANGOVER CURE
What was once just a coke the next morning, has become a full-blown operation. Welcome to your 40’s! I take a Berocca before I start drinking, then a cold shower when I wake up. And get as much salty food and caffeinated beverages delivered as a single rider can manage, two paracetamol and then I hunker down and call everyone I saw to apologise for whatever I said.
BEST INTERSTATE BAR
I LOVE the Ski Club in Darwin. It’s not fancy by other states standards, but the vibe is always chill and friendly, and the sunset will take your breath away. Also. the Matso’s Brewery in Broome for the same reasons. I also love Nola in Adelaide. Their cocktails are unique and fun and they are open late during the Fringe Festival.
OVERSEAS BAR
I had a few iconic nights in The Slammer Tavern in Portland, Oregon. I’d tell you more about it but I can’t remember. If you love a show tune and haven’t been to Marie’s Crisis in NYC, stop reading and head there immediately.
FAVOURITE WINE
At Christmas, we love a chilled sparkling red. My favourite is Savannah Estate’s Sparkling Malbec. Dangerously easy drinking.
FAVOURITE WINERY
I had one of the most delicious lazy afternoons at Mora Winery just outside of Queenstown- bliss! A little closer to home, I LOVE Cupitt’s winery near Milton on the South Coast of NSW. The food is incredible and the wines are perfect sipping as you look over the picture-perfect pastures. And Josef Chromy winery in Launceston hosted one of the most fun days of my life!
NEXT DESTINATION
I’m looking forward to a trip to Vietnam after I finish my national tour in the next few months.
