COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHT - Laura from Uncanny
In this month’s Community Highlight, we’re excited to shine a light on the multi-talented Laura from Uncanny. You might know Laura as one of our incredible instructors, but outside the studio, Laura’s also the powerhouse Creative Director behind one of Newtown’s best bars.
In this exclusive interview, Laura takes us behind the scenes - sharing how Uncanny came to life, the signature cocktails you need to try, and the passion that fuels it all.
Hi Laura, can you share a little bit of your background and what brought you to Uncanny?
My brother, Julien, has always been in hospitality - shaking up incredible cocktails and managing venues like a pro. In 2021, he and our dad, Michel, saw an opportunity to open a place of their own. From day one, I wanted to support them, and since I was teaching yoga full-time, the best way I could help was by running the Instagram.
By July 2024, I was ready to step back from full-time teaching, and Julien was keen for me to officially join Uncanny as a partner. We knew that together, we could take the venue to new heights - and we have.
It has been truly incredible stepping into the Creative Director role, I have so much passion for this venue and everything we stand for. It is an honour and great joy to show Sydney who and what we are.
Can you tell us more about the story of Uncanny, and what makes it a unique bar in Newtown?
The name Uncanny comes from the Uncanny X-men, a comic book series first published by Marvel comics in 1963. Their slogan “hated and feared for who they are” is representative of a group of misfits. They are the marginalised, those who step outside of the mainstream. That’s who we are!! Proud to be different, awesomely eclectic and strong in our oddness.
Authenticity is at the heart of everything we do. Here, you can come exactly as you are and enjoy CBD-quality cocktails, mouth-watering food, and our fun monthly events. Whether you're dressed to the nines or rocking trackies, we don’t mind - just be yourself, always!
What does a typical weekday (or week) look like for you?
A typical week for me starts in the office from Monday to Wednesday, handling all things behind the scenes—responding to function requests, planning events, posting on Instagram, booking DJs for the weekend, mapping out the week ahead, and creating all our media and PR content.
From Thursday to Saturday, I’m more hands-on in the venue - supporting the team, chatting with staff, capturing moments, organising the space, running the floor, and making sure our functions go off without a hitch. And if I’m lucky, I even get a weekend off now and then!
What do you most love about your job?
My favourite part of the job? Hearing and seeing how much people love Uncanny. There’s nothing better than knowing we’ve created a space where people feel welcome, have an amazing time, and keep coming back for more!
What is an absolute “must-try” cocktail or food of your menu?
Cocktail wise, The Julio Richter is number one on the list and in my heart. Julien crafted this for me when he opened Uncanny, putting his own unique spin on a mezcal Tommy’s Margarita, and it’s been a favourite ever since.
Food-wise, I’m obsessed with the salmon, but I can never resist the chicken wings as well. Honestly, everything Chef Dimi creates is next-level. You really can’t go wrong!
What goal do you hope to achieve for Uncanny by the end of the year and/or any exciting things to look forward to this year?
Our goal for Uncanny is to keep establishing ourselves as the place to be for food and drinks. Being here for the people, that is our number one priority.
Myself, Julien and our team are also looking at opening a second venue on Enmore road. This one would be the incredible vibe you love from Uncanny with a 70s rock and roll spin.
When you’re not working, what are you up to / how do you like to spend your free time?
In my spare time, you will find me zooming down the streets on rollerblades, Stomping my feet in the grass at a bush doof or at Scout haha - teaching yoga or practicing pilates and yoga
Finally, where do we find you?
Find us at uncannynewtown.com, @uncannynewtown or at 349 King St, Newtown NSW 2042
Member perks: 15% off drinks on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.