I arrived at the Bald Rock just as the sun was starting to sink in the west, after several hours of cycling, having been out photographing pubs and , er... 'gathering data'. I must have looked slightly dishevelled as I was greeted with a warm grin and immediately offered succour. Of course, I partook. The Bald Rock is situated where the former suburb of Bald Rock once was, if you were wondering - when seen from the harbour, the lack of vegetation was the most striking feature to folks arriving by ferry. A short walk uphill would bring you to the pub itself, first opened in 1876 and approaching 130 years old. Now you arrive along Mansfield Street as I did. A few locals were scattered around the bar with a solitary punter checking the form for the next race and sipping at a VB. A quick glance around reveals the essential character of the place. Bare sandstone walls and wooden fixtures scream 'old style Sydney pub' at you, and near the door you can read about the pub's history, including a contnuous list of the licensees from the beginning to the present. I have to say, I was very impressed with it as a friendly, traditional little boozer. The Bistro was just about to re-open for the six-o-clock feeding, but I decided against loading myself down too much for the return trip by bike and opted to stick with a glass of icy water and a Resch's. The Bald Rock is certainly a good spot to go for a quiet beer and a chat if you're in the area. In fact, it's worth a detour if you're in Balmain itself - and could be a good starting point or finishing point for a crawl taking in the West End, Exchange, Dicks and the Unity Hall - plenty of choice in this compact little suburb, y'see.
review by: Jason