Cactus Hound Bar

Head down Western Road in St Leonards and you'll find yourself in a bar that doesn't apologise for its Americana theme—it leans into it completely. You're greeted by saloon vibes without the kitsch; Cactus Hound takes its cocktails seriously even if the decor winks at a dusty frontier. The drinks list shows real craft, and staff actually know what they're doing. It's become a proper fixture on this stretch of the coast, drawing regulars who appreciate both the technical side of a well-made cocktail and an atmosphere that's fun without trying too hard. The place has that lived-in warmth of somewhere that's settled into its neighbourhood.