Just Open: The Bitters Lab, Fitzroy

If you've ever dreamed of buying a bag of cinchona succirubra​ and making your own tonic water, Fitzroy's new Bitters Lab is the place to go.

Cocktail enthusiasts and bitters importers Sophia and JD (John) Dimitropoulos opened the shopfront in late April with a back catalogue of more than 650 small batch and boutique varieties of bitters, non-­alcoholic syrups, vinegars and tonics.

Many are open on the central tasting table for sampling, but remember: a little bitters goes a long way.

The space is rocking a Downton Abbey apothecary shop vibe – the art deco wall is a nice touch – and they've partnered with Tom Ambroz (also a partner in Mr Bitters, a locally­ produced brand of bitters) as a resident "bitter consultant" for all your cocktail making needs.

Open Wed-­Mon 11am-­6pm

Shop 9, 397 Smith Street, Fitzroy; 03 9419 4327; thebitterslab.com.au