Our city? It's filled with unique places to drink. Whether you're looking for chilled out beachside retreats or romantic rooftops with breathtaking views, we really do have it all. To help you navigate through them, we've rounded up the best cool and quirky bars in Sydney, making your next night out that much better.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Upgrade your boring ol' day out with Bondi Bowling Club. Not only is this awesome venue boasting a lawn for plenty of non-stop games with pals, but it also whip ups a delightful range of grub, including wings and schnitzels. If you're thirsty, they have a fabulous bar for that too.
Searching for cool Sydney rooftop bars? Look no further than The Tilbury Hotel. This Nicholson Street haunt has a swoon-worthy terrace space worthy of some 'Gram action. Be sure to pop in for a few bespoke bevvies in the sunshine or for some tasty small plates.
Head on over to Beach Road Hotel in the heart of Bondi for a fabulous range of entertainment and food. Whether you're popping in for an Aperol spritz in its glorious beer garden or for a top-notch meal while enjoying some live music, this is the haunt to visit.
Forrester's is a unique bar in Surry Hills that's split into three areas: a chilled out bar, botanical restaurant and buzzing event space. As well as offering a crackin' happy hour, this place serves up bottomless rosé lunches at the weekend or a Monday $10 steak night.
Made up of rich foliage, mahogany wood and a rum-laden back bar, Old Mate's Place is one of the best quirky bars in Sydney. Enjoy sultry sips in the stunning indoor space, or head to the rooftop terrace when the weather warms up for sun tanning and cocktails galore.
If you're searching for one of the best bars in Darling Harbour, Smoke is sure to impress. Modelled off slinky haunts in New York and LA, this venue itself is dripping with style from the menu of top-notch tipples to the atmospheric dimmed interiors.
Taking inspiration from Twin Peaks and Polynesia, Jacoby's Tiki Bar is one of our favourite drinking dens. As its name suggests, this spot rustles up punchy concoctions that are full of tropical flavours and served in tiki glasses, sharing bowls or hollowed out fruit.
Fancy a tropical escape? Saga Bar features a menu of tipples inspired by the Middle East, India and Southeast Asia which can be enjoyed under lush fauna. Looking more like an ancient temple than a Chippendale bar, this is undeniably one of the best places to drink in Sydney.
This quirky Erskineville bar also happens to be a staple in Sydney's LGBTQIA+ community. Housing an Italian restaurant, lively bar space and basement venue, The Imperial Hotel has plenty of things to do under one roof, and we're not just talking about the legendary Drag N' Dine event.
With rum-laced creations at the centre of its menu, The Lobo has earned its place as one of the best bars in Sydney CBD. Staples include a rum 'n' rye old fashioned and The Clandestino, which makes use of waste citrus juice and husks to create a flavourful, yet, sustainable sip.
Bondi Hardware may have started life as an actual DIY store, but now it's a haven for drinking and dining. Alongside a selection of signature cocktails, you'll find beer, wine, spirits and a menu of wholesome sharing plates that are ideal for group outings.
On the hunt for secret bars in Sydney? Don't be fooled by its exterior, as The Soda Factory is a hidden haunt behind a fake Coca-Cola machine. Once inside, you'll find a dark watering hole with candy-inspired cocktails, classic American dishes and a roster of live events.
Not only is Zeta one of the best bars in Sydney with a view, but it also offers an eclectic menu of signature creations. Whether it's a sultry date night with beau in its gorgeous indoor space or a catch up with pals on the rooftop terrace, this haunt is a top choice.
Recognisable by the giant moose head on the wall, Shady Pines Saloon is a unique drinking den in Darlinghurst that's filled with quirky wares that nod to its American influences. Expect the party to be in full swing when you arrive, with whiskey-laced cocktails taking centre stage.
Bringing the essence of New Orleans to Newtown, Earls Juke Joint is one of the best Sydney bars. Made up of saloon-style interiors, a toe-tapping soundtrack and lip-smacking cocktails, this lively local is filled with old-school Southern charm.
The Rook is one of the best outdoor bars in Sydney, comprising bright interiors, modern furnishings and botanical touches. Saying cheers to the weekend? Raise a glass with an Italian-style bottomless brunch, featuring endless seltzers, spritzes with a spread of classic antipasti.
Tucked away off the beaten track, Ramblin' Rascal Tavern is a quirky hidden bar in Sydney CBD. Hunker down amongst the mismatched decor and dive bar furnishings for the chance to slurp on some of the city's best cocktails, where there's something for every palate.
The Barber Shop is a bar that's full of surprises; while it may specialise in haircuts by day, when the night falls it becomes a hotbed for sipping drinks and hanging out. If you're in need of cool bars in Sydney, this speakeasy hidden behind a bookcase is sure to knock your socks off.
Goros is injecting a little bit of Tokyo into Surry Hills, through old school arcade games, pool tables and blaring karaoke booths. Head into this stylish hotspot for a night of exotic sips or mouthwatering Japanese cuisine. Need we say more?
In the mood for cold craft brews and a dash of live music? Not only known for its massive steel fermenters and 1960 Dodge pickup covered with beer taps, but 4 Pines Truck Bar also offers freshly poured pints, alongside delicious plates of grub in Brookvale.
