Best Bars In Surry Hills

This vibrant suburb of Sydney is best known for its diversity, art galleries and buzzing cultural scene, and it's not hard to find somewhere to stop for a pint or a cocktail around here. But where are the very best places to go? We've rounded up our very favourite drinking spots, from Tokyo-inspired dive bars to historic local pubs. So next time you're wondering about the best Surry Hills bars, check out our guide below.

Last edited by Scarlett Welch

Last updated on 16th July 2024




Surly's

If you're looking for cheap bars with delicious eats, then make your way to Surly's on Campbell Street. This vibrant American-inspired tavern is decked out in neon signs and rustic wooden furniture, with retro arcade games and shuffleboard tables to keep you entertained. You'll find all the beers, wines and spirits you could ask for here, alongside a barbecue-style menu of fried chicken tenders, pulled pork nachos, Buffalo burgers and more - with dishes starting from just $16. What's more, if you head upstairs to Smokey's cabin you'll find all kinds of fun events during the week, from live music to trivia nights.

The Taphouse

A local pub with a lot of character, The Taphouse can be found close to Centennial Park. This huge venue has over 60 different taps of craft beer to choose from, as well as one of the largest collections of bottles and cans in the whole of Australia. There are three levels to drink on here, including a sunny terrace that overlooks the streets below - perfect if you're after rooftop bars in Surry Hills. They host regular trivia nights and a Sunday banquet that fuses Chinese and Irish cuisines alongside $12 pints, though you can find delicious East Asian fare every day or the week thanks to Head Chef Sam Ng.

The Winery

For something a little bit sophisticated, The Winery is always a great option when it comes to the best wine bars in Surry Hills. This gorgeous bar and restaurant boasts a beautiful, leafy terrace for drinks under the sun, with more than 30 different wines available by the glass - alongside a range of classic and signature cocktails like the cranberry crusher spritz. Alongside the gorgeous garden and cosy igloos for the winter months, you can get your hands on a European-inspired menu that features everything from wild mushroom arancini to yellowfin tuna carpaccio.

Forrester’s

One of the best cocktail bars in Surry Hills for a date or group night out, Forrester's should definitely be on your radar. The laidback neighbourhood venue has been around for over 100 years, split into three distinct areas: a traditional bar, the bustling restaurant and a specially-designed events space where you'll often find live music, comedy and trivia nights. There's a huge selection of wines and cocktails to sip on here, as well as delicious dishes like harissa cauliflower salad, spicy chicken burgers or pub classics like bangers and mash.

Goros

For fans of all things Japanese, Goros is a buzzing Mary Street hangout designed like a Tokyo dive bar. This quirky venue boasts pool tables, retro arcade games and even karaoke, surrounded by trendy neon signs and cherry blossom decor. They've got one of the biggest collections of sake and whisky in the city, with a menu that helps you decide which drink is right for you. You can also get your hands on everything from miso salmon to vegetable gyozas and spicy pork skewers, and they're open until 3am on weekends if you're in the mood to party.

Mexican Burrito Cantina

With traditional decor and brightly coloured walls, Mexican Burrito Cantina is a quirky stop for a few margaritas. Situated on Crown Street, this restaurant bar boasts a huge number of cocktails and Mexican beers to choose from, alongside a mouthwatering menu that features grilled steak quesadillas, black bean burritos, loaded nachos and more. Even better, you can bring your own wine for just a $5 corkage fee when you're eating there.