Best Bars in Sydney: Sultry Sips in the City
Once the sun starts setting and the night begins to set the tone, the glamorous bars, pubs, and speakeasies in Sydney open their doors to mesmerise you.
With newly revamped venues offering a lively ambiance and lip-smacking drinks, Sydney’s nightlife is a world of its own.
Whether it's a date night or a fun hangout with mates, raising a glass at the stylish watering holes in Sydney is always a memorable experience.
Here's your cue to go pub-hopping and party the night away in style at the best bars in Sydney.
Remember: While some bars stay open all night, others close early. Check their timings on the website or ask to avoid disappointment. Enjoy responsibly!
Pubs in the CBD
Bar Luca
Bar Luca is one of the best pubs in Sydney's CBD, and its appeal extends beyond just its drinks.
The bar prides itself on incorporating sustainable practices, and in a commitment to the movement to eliminate plastics in the oceans, it is now 100% strawless.
Enjoy their signature cocktails, such as the ‘Kiss Me Chiara,’ at any hour within the bar and unwind with friends in its comfortable lounges.
Location: 52 Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 5-minute walk from the Circular Quay Railway Station
Timing:
Mon to Thurs, 11am to 9pm
Fri, 11am to 9:30pm
Sat, 5pm to 9:30pm
Closed on Sun
Burrow Bar
Discover Burrow Bar, a cocktail speakeasy praised for its charming ambiance and prestigious awards like Australian Bartender Magazine's Bar of the Year.
Indulge in craft beers, boutique spirits, and delicious drinks while enjoying the cosy atmosphere and mouthwatering beef.
Your taste buds are in for a zesty adventure, so what are you waiting for?
Location: Basement/96 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 11-minute walk from the St James Station
Timing:
Tue to Sun, 4pm to 12am
Closed on Mon
Old Mate’s Place
Old Mate's Place is a stylish multi-level venue with two bars, one of which is a rooftop area offering 360-degree views of Sydney CBD.
The lower part of the bar is adorned with bookshelves and smart furniture, giving it the appearance of an old library.
Contrastingly, the upper part is brighter and adorned with lush greenery.
This speakeasy-style rooftop bar is a hub for signature cocktails and beer and wine, making it a fab choice for a night out in the city.
Location: Level 4/199 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 6-minute walk from the Wynyard Railway Station
Timing:
Tue to Thu, 4pm to 2am
Fri to Sun, 2pm to 2am
Closed on Mon
The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel
Step into history at Sydney's oldest pub, a true gem with continuous upgrades through the years.
It is globally celebrated for its award-winning ales and offers packaged beers within its charming old-world bar.
The best thing to do here is sipping on their natural ales in the brewery or hanging out at the boutique accommodation on the upper floor.
Location: 19 Kent St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 13-minute walk from the Wynyard Railway Station
Timing: Mon to Sun, 11am to 11pm
Cocktail Bars in Sydney
The Doss House
Transport yourself to another era in this intimate heritage bar with an elegant vintage interior.
Exuding character, ambiance, and history, The Doss House is an ideal location for hosting a social or corporate occasion.
What better time than now to revel in this basement bar while indulging in cheese and charcuterie?
Location: 77-79 George Street The Rocks, Sydney New South Wales 2000 (map)
Directions: 10 minutes walk from the Wynyard Railway Station
Timing:
Tue to Thu, 5pm to 1am
Fri and Sat, 4pm to 2am
Sun, 4pm to 12am
Closed on Mon
Palmer and Co
Did you know that this underground bar dates back to the era when booze was not legal?
You’ll discover black and white photographs lining the walls as traces of those times.
Get your hands on their main selection of drinks, including spirits, cocktails, and even champagne to some extent.
Location: Abercrombie Lane, Sydney, NSW, 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 10-minute walk from the Circular Quay Wharf
Timing:
Tues, 5pm to 12am
Wed and Thu, 5pm to 2am
Fri and Sat, 4pm to 3am
Sun, 5pm to 3am
Closed on Mon
The Baxter Inn
The Baxter Inn is a sophisticated bar located in the basement of an alley. Want to know what their speciality is?
It’s their selection of excellent whisky, though they also serve beer, wine, and cocktails.
The best part? No need for prior bookings or door lists - they welcome everyone with open arms.
Location: 152/156 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 2-minute walk from QVB Bus Stand, York St, Stand E
Timing: Mon to Fri, 4pm to 3am
Ramblin Rascal Tavern
Ramblin Rascal Tavern is a cool basement bar comprising vinyl booths, splendid carpets, and more!
Their skull logos are not only recognisable but also eye-catching, to say the least.
And the rascals of the core team maintain a prim and proper appearance and service.
Not only do you experience an excellent atmosphere, but also high-quality booze.
What's there not to like?
Location: Basement/60 St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: A 1- minute walk from Hyde Park Bus Stand, Elizabeth St, Stand A
Timing:
Mon to Wed, 5pm to 1am
Thurs and Sat, 4pm to 2am
Closed on Sun
The Library Bar
Perched above the State Library of NSW’s iconic Mitchell Building, this bar will allow you to view The Domain and Sydney Harbour.
You'll love the snug ambience indoors, especially when the baby piano comes alive with mesmerising live music (provided you time your visit just right).
Indulge in a delectable menu featuring Newtown’s Young Henry, Rosebery’s Archie Rose gin, etc.
And don't miss their signature rare ale, a unique 100% NSW brew.
Location: 1 Shakespeare Place, Sydney NSW 2000 (map)
Directions: A 4-minute walk from Martin Place Railway Station, Macquarie St, Stand
Timing:
Wed to Sat, 4pm to 10pm
Closed on Sun, Mon, & Tues
Apollonia
This history-laden spot has derived inspiration from The Godfather’s Apollonia Vitelli-Corleone.
Lying in a warehouse basement, it is full of the old-world romantic escapist aura - for instance, incorporating Sicilian drinking venue-styled elements.
Enthrall in the stunning contrast of a marble bar and lush leather banquettes with naked stone walls and brickworks.
While in Apollonia, stay till 12am for the bartenders to lead a collective toast.
Location: 5-7 Young St Basement Level, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 2-minute walk from Circular Quay Railway Station, Young St, Stand D
Timing:
Mon to Wed, 4pm to 12am
Thu, 4pm to 1am
Fri, 3pm to 2am
Sat, 4pm to 2am
Closed on Sun
Rooftop/Sky Bars in Sydney
Zephyr
Besides a superb view, Zephyr has extensive drinks from contemporary tipples to signature classic cocktails and bar exclusives.
If you're a rum-lover, you must taste their vivid collection from all corners of the world, along with a tailored gin.
The disco balls and delicious cocktails served in pineapple glasses will make your celebrations a hit.
Alternatively, you can enjoy the sensational view of the glistening sun over Darling Harbour with a cocktail in your hand.
Location: Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 7-minute walk from Bay St Bus Stand at West Botany St
Timing:
Tue to Thu, 3pm to 10pm
Fri, 3pm to 12am
Sat, 2pm to 12am
Sun, 2pm to 10pm
Closed on Mon
Brigade Bar
Brigade Bar once bagged the title for 'Best Pub TAB-Fold Standard' in the Australian Hotels Association Awards for Excellence.
It's the perfect spot to chill with your buddies, catching up on all the important sports games on those big screens.
And oh, you've gotta try their classic cocktails like 'Firefighter,' Rosato Colline delle Rose, and Don Julio Reposado – they're absolute gems!
Location: Oxford St and Jersey Rd Woollahra NSW 2025 (map)
Directions: 2-minute walk from Oxford St Bus Stand, Victoria Ave
Timing:
Mon to Thu, 10 am to 12am
Fri and Sat, 10am to 1am
Sun, 10am to 10pm
Lady Banks Rooftop
A modern, vibrant, and exciting venue, Lady Banks Rooftop offers fascinating 360-degree views while you enjoy top-notch cocktails and other items.
Here, you can either stay in the comfy booths or grab a cocktail and head to the rooftop for beautiful views.
Location: 25 Restwell St, Bankstown NSW 2200, Australia (map)
Directions: Take 10T3 to Restwell St at Stewart Lane before walking for 1-minute
Timing:
Wed & Thurs, 12pm to 10pm
Fri & Sat, 12pm to 12am
Sun, 12pm to 9pm
Closed on Mon & Tues
The Rooftop Sydney
The new chic destination by the Pyrmont Footbridge serves delicious mains, bar bites, and splendid drinks.
Its bright and beautiful decor, inspired by the Hamptons, will please you while you feel relaxed on the terrace with a retractable roof.
Be sure to order the bar's signature cocktails and food items.
Location: Level 3/200 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: 10-minute walk from Pyrmont Bay
Timing:
Wed to Sat, 12pm to 10pm
Closed from Sun to Tue
The Butler
Panoramic views, innovative drinks, and charming decorations – The Butler has everything to captivate your mind.
As one of the best bars in Potts Point, it features an Ibero-American-inspired food menu.
What makes it special is that it is open for dinner every day and even offers lunch on most days.
Sounds like it's about time to visit and satisfy both your heart and your taste buds.
Location: 123 Victoria St, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia (map)
Directions: 2-minute walk from the King’s Cross Railway Station
Timing:
Mon & Tue, 4pm to 11pm
Wed & Thurs, 12pm to 11pm
Fri & Sat, 12pm to 12am
Sun, 12pm to 10pm
East Village Sydney
The fantastic skyline views, fresh dishes, and tasty drinks in East Village Sydney are one-of-a-kind.
Oh, wait, the best part?
It’s open throughout the year!
In summer, you can enjoy a refreshing drink with your friends and in winter, visit it with your partner as it becomes extremely cosy.
Arrive well in advance to enjoy their curated selection of wines and classic cocktails on the bright and colourful rooftop.
Location: 234 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010 (map)
Directions: 4-minute walk from Oxford St at Palmer St
Timing:
Mon to Sat, 12pm to 12am
Sun, 12pm to 10pm
Wine Bars in Sydney
10 William St
What’s so special about 10 William St?
Well, the bar is brightly illuminated with exposed bulbs and lined with huge chalkboards.
Its all-natural wine list is a favorite among local oenophiles and big-shot industry names.
And the glittering restaurant imparts a specific Italian flavour to elevate your experience.
Here, take a sip of Italy’s finest wine-producing areas, and explore a variety of orange wines and other international delicacies.
Location: 10 William Street, Paddington NSW 2021 (map)
Directions: 1-minute walk from Oxford St after William St
Timing:
Mon to Thurs, 5 pm to 12 am
Fri to Sat, 12pm to 12am
Closed on Sun
La Salut
La Salut offers a wide range of wines, drawing inspiration from Barcelona’s natural wine movement.
What’s more? Elements of Vino de Pasto or unfortified wines produced from Palomino grapes in Andalusia and even more!
Visit the bar to enjoy its rotating selection of AUD5 tapas and plates of cured meat and pintxos.
Location: 305 Cleveland Street, Sydney, New South Wales 2016 (map)
Directions: Take bus 374 to Cleveland St at Walker St
Timing:
Wed, 5pm to 10pm
Thurs & Fri, 5pm to 12am
Sat, 12pm to 12am
Sun, 11am to 10pm
Closed on Mon & Tues
Beau
One of the best bars in Surry Hills, Beau is intimate and caters to your mood.
Stepping inside, you will be greeted with a glass-fronted wall behind the bar.
Its cocktail list shows off a simple blend of orange Uludag Gazoz and Campari and several other exotic drinks.
You’ll also find a lot of accompaniments like lobster dishes and seafood to fill your tummy.
Location: 52 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 (map)
Directions: 14-minute walk from the Town Hall railway Station
Timing:
Tues & Weds, 4pm to 10:30 pm
Thurs to Sat, 12pm to 2:30 pm, 4pm to 11:30 pm
Closed on Sun & Mon
Love, Tilly Devine
What’s the secret behind the name ‘Love, Tilly Devine’?
It owes its origins to a diabolic female criminal in Sydney’s history.
Besides 300 robust wines on its list, it has a changing menu of European food items like rock oysters.
Do not miss out on the stellar wines and snacky dishes while having fun with your date.
Location: 91 Crown Street, Sydney New South Wales 2010 (map)
Directions: Take bus 389 to Stanley St at Crown St before walking for 1-minute
Timing: Mon to Sat, 5pm to 12am. Closed on Sun
Dear Sainte Eloise
When you step inside Dear Sainte Eloise, you're in for a treat with plenty of beverages and plush seating options.
Moreover, the extensive selection of beer and wine stands out as one of the prime attractions.
Enjoy their light bar snacks and perfectly curated beverages for a unique experience.
Location: 29 Orwell Street, Sydney New South Wales 2011 (map)
Directions: 6-minute walk from Kings Cross Railway Station
Timing:
Mon to Weds, 5pm to 12am
Thurs to Sat, 12pm to 12am
Sun, 12pm to 10pm
Outdoor Bars in Sydney
Coogee Pavilion
Are you seeking innumerable dining and drinking choices?
From fish and chips to shared platters, bar snacks, and beverages, Coogee is the best of its kind.
Dress casually and dance to the tunes of live DJs with a drink in hand at this seafront rooftop bar.
Location: Ground Floor, 169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034 (map)
Directions: Take bus 374 to Arden St at Dolphin St before walking for 1-minute
Timing: Open Daily, 7:30am to 12am
The Glenmore Rooftop
This sky-high bar offers beautiful views combined with refreshing cocktails and seasonal snacks.
Sip cocktails while enjoying sunset views and chatting with friends in the open courtyard.
Be it a romantic night, a long lunch, or catching up with friends - The Glenmore Rooftop is lovely and intimate to suit your taste and purpose.
Location: 96 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia (map)
Directions: A 14-minute walk from the Wynyard Railway Station
Timing: Open Daily, 10am to 12am
The Beresford
The Beresford has a fantastic ambiance, and its top attractions are the high-quality food and drinks, making it one of the best bars in Sydney.
The main bar is designed for drinking and chatting, while the courtyard offers a space to unwind and relax.
Did you know that the garden is dog-friendly? Now is the time to visit the place with your furry friend and soak in good vibes.
Location: 354 Bourke St, Surrey Hills NSW 2010 (map)
Directions: A 6-minute walk from Crown Stand at Campbell Street
Timing:
Mon to Thu, 12pm to 12am
Fri to Sun, 12pm to 1am
Golden Sheaf Hotel
The popular beer garden at the Golden Sheaf Hotel is a leafy oasis that provides a rejuvenating experience.
Its dining and drinking options make it a splendid destination for party enthusiasts.
Besides marvellous decor and live bands, the popular Wednesday student night and diverse menu draw in numerous visitors.
If you visit on Sundays, don't miss the exclusive Sunday roast featuring Yorkshire pudding and grain-fed beef.
And if you're in the mood for seasonal classics, be sure not to miss Pure Blonde Pints while vibing and dancing the night away!
Location: 429 New South Head Rd, Double Bay NSW 2026 (map)
Directions: Take bus 324 to New South Head Rd at Knox St and walk for 1-minute
Timing:
Mon to Wed, 10am to 1am
Thurs to Sat, 10am to 2am
Sun, 10am to 12am
Nightlife Beyond Pub Hopping in Sydney
There’s more to Sydney nights than drinking and partying in the best bars in Sydney.
If you’re confused about where to start, here are some activities that you’ll undoubtedly love.
Soak in the history
The guide enlightens you on this historic walking tour about the ancient tales of the British colony in Australia. In addition, you get to drink your chosen beer, soft drink, house wine, or cider at each of the four pubs on the way.
Hike along the coast
The guided hiking tour from Manly Beach to the Brewery includes delicious food items and one beverage of your choice. Explore the environment, bond with fellow hikers, and sip the finest drink on the brewery visit afterwards.
Enjoy an aerial view
If you are visiting Bar 83 during sunset, you can watch it from the best seat while sipping on wine or champagne. Drop in at the vantage point for a spell-binding 260-degree skyline view.
Satiate your taste palates
Handpicked Cellar Door welcomes you with a glass of Tasmania Sparkling from their vineyards. Their impressive selection of wine from the finest wine regions in Australia will intrigue your tastebuds.
Taste and drink in abundance
The Vins, Gins, and Tins afternoon tour is unmissable- each venue will show you the craft of the production processes and methods of the finest drink producers in Sydney. So, explore a brewery, distillery, and urban winery if you want to have an awesome drinking experience!
Experience sunset from a yacht
The luxurious Southwinds is a storehouse of history and elegance. Notably, Laurent-Perrier La Cuvee champagne and super canapes are complimentary on the 1950s yacht.
Sydney’s Eclectic Drinking Solutions
From outdoor spaces to hidden gems, Sydney has an inexhaustible list of bars for every occasion.
All you have to do is choose your favourite kind and hop in with your near and dear ones.
So, chill and dance into the night with fancy cocktails and champagne!