Arcane Fairies launches Australia’s first zip-line cocktail delivery system
Arcane Fairies has opened on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne’s CBD, introducing Australia’s first fully integrated zip-line cocktail delivery system inside a licensed venue. The installation spans more than 50 metres of overhead lines and delivers drinks directly from the bar to booth seating.
The custom-built system runs above the venue floor and operates as part of standard service. Cocktails travel through the space before arriving at tables, placing the delivery system at the centre of the venue’s operation.
The venue features a speakeasy-style interior with booth seating and overhead installations. A central bar structure known as the fairy chest bar anchors the space, while a jukebox supports a rock-focused music programme during service hours.
Zip-line system and late-night menu define Arcane Fairies concept
The drinks menu features signature cocktails, craft beers, and Guinness on tap, complemented by a well-stocked back bar that includes rare spirits. The venue design integrates the zip-line system into regular bar operations rather than treating it as a standalone feature.
Director Steve Thomas said the delivery system shaped the venue from the outset.
“The zip-lines were always the hero,” said Steve Thomas. “We wanted to create something Melbourne hasn’t seen before, an experience that feels theatrical, immersive and just a little bit wild. Watching your cocktail fly in from above never gets old.”
Head Chef Jake Warhurst developed the food offering for Arcane Fairies. His career includes work in Michelin-starred and hatted kitchens across multiple countries.
Warhurst has cooked for private clients including Drake, Richard Branson, George Clooney and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He later served as Head Chef on Richard Branson’s private island and toured the United States as Drake’s personal chef.
The Arcane Fairies menu features late-night dining options. Dishes include a smash burger with Warface Sauce, Nashville hot fried chicken and folded pizzettas created exclusively for the Melbourne venue. The menu also includes gluten-free and vegan options.
“I wanted the food and the venue to be a pilgrimage for Melbourne’s late-night legends. A place that you had to stop in at,” said Jake Warhurst. “Everything on the menu was built around the absolute classic late-night eats. From spicy noodles to smash burgers and all the way to Nashville hot fried chicken. It was about making every dish as strong as the one next to it.”
Steve Thomas led the concept, design and build of Arcane Fairies. His previous venues include StoryVille, Pawn & Co. and 29th Apartment.
Thomas oversaw the engineering and installation of the zip-line cocktail system as part of the venue build.
“Arcane Fairies is about letting go,” said Steve Thomas. “It’s immersive, playful and intentionally unexpected, a place where cocktails fly, music plays and the night can go anywhere.”
Address: 185 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
Website: https://arcanefairies.com.au