The Vanguard

An iconic live music venue in Sydney, The Vanguard has previously played host to some of the globe's biggest music talents, from Elvis Costello to Diesel and Russell Crowe. No two nights here are ever the same as the versatile space can be easily transformed from a headbanging den of rock 'n' roll to a slinky cave of candlelit dinners and live burlesque.

The quirky spot fronts New Orleans-style interiors, from flashing neon lights to panelled walls and thick red velvet curtains. Guests are welcome to relax in the bar area pre or post-gig where a full menu of comfort food classics available. The perfect sustenance for a night of live entertainment, the menu includes guacamole-topped tacos, steaming slices of pizza and burgers stuffed full of pulled pork, oozing cheese and chilli jam mayo. And to sip? The bar offers all the craft brews, cider and wine you would expect, along with a full range of handcrafted cocktails. Highlights include the When Monkeys Jam (a potent mix of whiskey, lemon, orgeat syrup and strawberry jam), and the tequila and honey-based Eye of the Beeholder.