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Admin_Bardar In Bars, Clubs, Guides, Pubs, Sydney

Sydney’s Best Nightlife Areas

Sydney’s nightlife is largely segmented into a series of distinct nightlife precincts, each offering different aesthetics and venue styles. When going out for the night, it’s best to pick one precinct in advance and stick to it, as moving around the city can be expensive and kill the momentum on a night out. The good news is that most precincts are fairly diverse, so if you’re after laid-back bars, pulsing nightclubs, or intimate live music venues, Sydney has a precinct to match your mood. With Bardar, navigating these areas and discovering the best spots is easier than ever. Here’s a guide to Sydney’s best nightlife areas.

1. Enmore Road, Enmore/Newtown

Enmore Road, a top-20 coolest neighbourhood in the world according to TimeOut, offers live music, quirky bars, and a vibrant alternative nightlife scene.

Enmore Road is the lifeline of the inner west’s alternative culture, famous for its live music scene and high density of restaurants, bars and pubs. The street is dotted with iconic venues like the Enmore Theatre, which hosts everything from rock concerts to comedy shows. Alongside these are an array of quirky bars, late-night eateries, and independent shops, creating a unique and lively atmosphere, and making it one of Sydney’s best nightlife areas.

Venues we love: Bar Planet, Jakobi’s Tiki Bar, Cairo Takeout, The Trocadero Room, the Vic

2. Hollywood Quarter, Surry Hills

The criminally underrated Hollywood Quarter stuffs a wide variety of first-class venues into a tiny amount of surface area.

Hollywood Quarter in Surry Hills is a lesser-known gem, blending an eclectic mix of really cool venues in a cityside corner of Surry Hills. Exemplifying the uniqueness of the area is the Golden Age Cinema & Bar, a combined (as the name suggests) cocktail bar and cinema, showing new indie productions and classic films. Plus, being walking distance of both Crown and Oxford St puts the Hollywood Quarter in a prime location for any night out.

Venues we love: The Rover, Hollywood Hotel, Tio’s Cervicerria, Chin Chin, Hotel Harry, Golden Age Bar

3. Crown Street, Surry Hills

Crown Street is Surry Hills’ vibrant hub, offering an eclectic mix of trendy bars, pubs and restaurants perfect for a lively night out.

Crown Street is the beating heart of Surry Hills, one of Sydney’s liveliest areas. Surry Hills is best from around 7-11:30pm, when legendary pubs like The Clock and The Dolphin are packed and super fun. As you move up Crown St, you’ll find more late-night bars like Low302 and Tucanos, before you hit the clubs of Oxford St. Crown St is also home to tonnes of great restaurants, making it a vibrant street with lots of positive energy, and one of Sydney’s best nightlife areas.

Venues we love: The Clock, The Dolphin, Forrester’s, Bad Mama

4. Stanley Street, Darlinghurst

The Stanley Street nightlife precinct packs a lot into a small area, with a selection of extremely groovy bars, pubs and restaurants that bring life to the street.

Stanley Street is a charming precinct that combines European-style alfresco dining with cozy bars. The street is home to a variety of venues, from traditional Italian eateries to hidden speakeasies like The Long Goodbye. Stanley Street is usually full of beautiful people having a beautiful time and especially comes alive when they have their bi-annual bloc parties, which take over the whole street and go absolutely wild.

Venues we love: Stanley’s On Stanley, The Long Goodbye, La Farmacia, Club 77 (not technically on Stanley but just around the corner).

5. YCK Laneways, Sydney CBD

YCK Laneways offers a bar-hopping adventure through Sydney’s historic laneways, featuring craft cocktails and live music.

YCK Laneways is Sydney’s newest nightlife precinct, a cluster of small bars tucked away in the CBD’s historic laneways. The area has quickly become a favourite for after-work drinks and late-night adventures, with bars like Since I Left You and Uncle Ming’s offering everything from craft cocktails to live music. It’s the perfect spot for bar hopping with a group of friends.

Venues we love: The Lobo, Old Mate’s Place, Uncle Mings, Since I Left You

6. King Street, Newtown

Taking the baton from Enmore Road as you come East, King Street is Newtown’s alternative hub, offering an eclectic mix of bars, cafes, and cultural experience.

King Street in Newtown is the (as well as Enmore Rd) heart of Sydney’s alternative scene, famous for its diverse range of bars, cafes, and vintage shops. The street is lined with venues that cater to every taste, from the hipster hangouts to classic pubs. It’s also a cultural melting pot, reflecting the eclectic and inclusive spirit of the area.

Venues we love: The Courty, Coopers, The Newtown Hotel, Mary’s

7. Oxford Street, Darlinghurst

Oxford Street is Sydney’s iconic nightlife strip, celebrated for its vibrant, inclusive atmosphere and legendary clubs.

Oxford Street is Sydney’s most famous nightlife strip, known for its LGBTQ+ friendly venues and vibrant party atmosphere. The street is home to legendary clubs like ARQ and Stonewall, which have been at the centre of Sydney’s nightlife for decades, making it undoubtedly one of Sydney’s best nightlife areas. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s dynamic and inclusive party scene.

Venues we love: Ching-a-lings, Carousel, The Oxford Art Factory, The Beresford, Universal

8. George Street, Sydney/Circular Quay

George Street combines Sydney’s historic charm with modern nightlife, offering a blend of iconic venues and sophisticated bars.

George Street runs through the heart of Sydney’s CBD, linking some of the city’s most historic and iconic venues. From the sophisticated bars near Circular Quay to the lively pubs in The Rocks, this area offers a mix of old and new. It’s ideal for those looking to experience Sydney’s rich history alongside its contemporary nightlife.

Venues we love: Miu Miu, Mary’s Underground, The Republic Hotel, Palmer & Co

9. The Rocks

Sydney’s most historic and most touristy nightlife district is home to a number of great bars and pubs.

Particularly lively around St. Paddy’s Day and NYE, the Rocks is a stalwart after-work drinks destination, and most of the historic pubs in this area get a lively crowd on Friday nights. One of the best parts of the Rocks is just walking around, absorbing the ambience and watching the harbour late at night.

Venues we love: Maybe Sammy, Frank Mack’s, The Orient

Conclusion

Sydney’s nightlife precincts offer something for everyone, whether you’re after a quiet drink in a hidden bar or a night of dancing on the city’s busiest strips. With Bardar, you can easily explore these diverse districts and find the perfect spot to suit your mood. So grab your friends, plan your night, and dive into the vibrant nightlife that Sydney has to offer. Cheers to unforgettable nights out!

Admin_Bardar In Bars, Guides, Pubs, Sydney

Sydney’s Best Happy Hours

Sydney is bloody expensive, however, if you put your ear to the ground and lock in slots at a few of these top-notch happy hours you can figure out ways to consume an appropriate number of beverages without causing a Venezuala-level economic crisis. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day at work or kickstart your night out, here are some of the best happy hours around the place. Check out our guide to Sydney’s best happy hours below.

1. The Rover

The Rover’s daily happy hour offers $6 drinks and $2 oysters in a charming, nautical setting.

Located in Surry Hills, The Rover is a cozy bar that brings a touch of old-world charm to Sydney’s nightlife. During happy hour, which runs daily from 4 pm to 6 pm, you can indulge in $6 wines, beers, and G&Ts, along with freshly shucked $2 oysters. It’s the perfect spot to start the evening in sophistication, before sinking into depravity.

2. The Beresford

The Beresford serves up $7 drinks daily in one of Sydney’s most popular beer gardens.

The Beresford in Surry Hills is a favourite among locals, thanks to its vibrant atmosphere and beautiful beer garden. Their happy hour runs every day from 6 pm to 8 pm, offering $7 schooners, wines, and spirits along with $9 pints and $14 Aperols. It’s an ideal spot to catch up with friends or enjoy a casual drink after work. On Sundays in summer, the Bero becomes one of Sydney’s premier LGBTQ+ party spots and hosts the famous Laneway party during Mardis Gras.

3. Tucano’s

Tucano’s offers $12 cocktails and snacks in a vibrant, tropical setting that’s perfect for a midweek pick-me-up.

Tucano’s brings some zesty tiki energy to Surry Hills with its colourful décor and lively ambience. Their happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm, Tuesday to Friday, featuring $12 house cocktails, $12 snacks and $8 beers and wines. Warming up with a few happy-hour drinks is especially advisable on Fridays, when DJs fire the place up later in the evening, fostering an energetic and fun dance floor.

4. Hotel Harry

Hotel Harry’s slings $6 schooners and $10 cocktails from 4-6pm in a relaxed spot that’s reliably busy throughout the week.

Harpoon Harry, located in Surry Hills, combines vintage flair with a modern twist. Their happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm daily, offering $6 house beers, $8 wines and spirits and $10 cocktails. The Bardar team are particularly big fans of the Harry’s whiskey sour. This place’s eclectic design and laid-back vibe make it a great spot to start your evening, and if you’re hanging around there for a particularly busy Friday or Saturday night, to finish it too at Harry’s House Party – their weekend house and disco event.

5. Shady Pines

Shady Pines is among Sydney’s best (and most well hidden) bars – delivering one of Sydney’s best happy hours with $6.50 tinnies, mixed drinks and house wines, plus $12.50 margs and negronis from 4-6pm every day.

Shady Pines Saloon in Darlinghurst is a Sydney institution and Bardar team favourite known for its Nashville honkey-tonk aesthetic and welcoming atmosphere. Their happy hour runs from 4 pm to 6 pm daily, featuring $6.50 house mixers and $12.50 Margaritas and Negronis. It’s a place where you can kick back with a whiskey and enjoy some old-school charm.

6. Queens Hotel Enmore

Queens Hotel sets itself apart with one of Sydney’s best late-night happy hours, giving you the chance to reload on $7 schooners, wine and mixed drinks from 10pm-midnight.

Queens Hotel in Enmore is a stylish pub that combines modern design with a touch of heritage charm. Their happy hour runs from 5 pm to 7 pm daily and then again from 10 to midnight, offering $7 beers, mixed drinks and house wines. It’s a first-class drop in for a few cheap power-up bevvies on a night out in Enmore.

7. Corridor Newtown

Corridor Newtown’s nightly $10 pints, $15 jugs and $14 cocktails make it a lovely spot to sit back, polish a few off and watch Newtown’s eclectic denizens slide by on a Friday night.

Corridor, a cozy bar on King Street, Newtown, boasts one of the happiest happy hours in the area, which is saying something given the density of pubs in the area. Every night from 5 pm to 7 pm, you can enjoy $10 pints, $15 jugs, and $14 cocktails, with different specials throughout the week. The intimate atmosphere makes it a lovely spot for a date, a relaxed catch-up with a mate or somewhere to just vibe out.

8. Tequila Mockingbird

If you’re looking for a solid happy hour in the East, you could do a lot worse than Paddo’s Tequila Mockingbird’s $12 Margaritas

Tequila Mockingbird in Paddington is a South American-inspired restaurant and bar with a focus on fresh, vibrant flavors. Their happy hour runs from 4:30 pm to 6 pm, Tuesday to Friday, featuring $12 Margaritas and a selection of Latin-American snacks starting at $9. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a few pre-dinner drinks and snacks in the inner-East.

Conclusion

You do not have to empty the coffers to get absolutely hammered on a night out in Syd. Whether you’re looking for a glass of wine, a tropical cocktail, or a craft beer. So, grab your friends, head to one of these fantastic venues, and get happier with Sydney’s best happy hours, whatever that means.

Admin_Bardar In Bars, Pubs, Sydney

The Best Date-Night Spots in Sydney

Sydney’s nightlife offers a plethora of venues perfect for a memorable date night. Whether you’re looking for an intimate cocktail bar, a lively pub, or a unique drinking experience, it’s all out there. With Bardar, finding the perfect spot for your next date is a breeze. Here’s our guide to some of the best date-night spots in Sydney.

1. Bar Planet

Bar Planet offers a cosmic date-night experience with its celestial-themed décor and inventive cocktails.

Bar Planet is an otherworldly experience, with its celestial-themed décor and inventive cocktails. Located in Enmore, this bar is often busy, and despite the space theme, the ambience is warm and bubbling, with groovy tunes pumping and background conversations filling up this dimly-lit bar nicely. Among the signature drinks are their martinis, as well as the Scorpino – a slushie cocktail made with a weekly rotating gelato.

2. Apollonia

Apollonia is a hidden gem offering a romantic, old-world charm with its Sicilian-inspired cocktails and ambience.

Hidden beneath the streets of Circular Quay, Apollonia is a Sicilian-inspired bar that transports you to another time and place. The bar’s intimate, dimly lit setting and carefully crafted cocktails are perfect for a romantic evening. The old-world charm and luxurious ambience make it a standout as one of the best date-night spots in Sydney.

3. The Dolphin

The Dolphin has great energy, excellent food and decent cocktails, along with all the standard pub options, making it a great option for a more casual date.

The Dolphin in Surry Hills is a modern pub with a stylish edge. It features multiple spaces, including a mini cocktail bar (Bar Red), street seating and a rooftop area. The Dolphin is known for its excellent pizza and standout menu of pub food, as well as better-than-usual cocktails for a pub. The laid-back vibe paired with quality drinks and food ensures a great evening.

4. Bad Mama’s

Bad Mama’s is a funky and eclectic Asian fusion bar with unreal food, live music and great cocktails.

Fitting right into the perfect middle ground of casual and high-end, Bad Mama’s is an unreal bar and restaurant. Pumping old-school hip-hop most of the time, with various live music acts on different days and neon, blade-runner-esque styling, Bad Mama sick setting for a date night of any kind.

5. Alcatraz

Alcatraz is a Spanish bar in Annandale that gives you fantastic options for having a bit of a boogie after a few cocktails and tapas bites.

For a date night that transports you straight to the heart of Spain, look no further than Alcatraz in Annandale. The ‘Traz offers delicious tapas along with a mix of Spanish and Australian wines, and cocktails inspired by Spanish wine mixers like Calimocho and Albariño Mint. Thursdays are particularly special, with Sultry and Sample sessions filling the air with jazz, Latin, and R&B tunes under dim red lights. It’s a sultry setting that’s ideal for an intimate date. On Saturdays, the energy ramps up with El Pazo Mercado, a night of DJs, dancing, and solid party energy. This variety of options makes Alcatraz easily one of the best date-night spots in Sydney.

6. Shady Pines

Shady Pines offers a cozy and rustic date-night spot with its Wild West décor and relaxed atmosphere.

Shady Pines Saloon in Darlinghurst is a Sydney institution, known for its Wild West-inspired décor and welcoming vibe. The bar’s rustic charm, complete with wooden barrels and taxidermy, creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. It’s a laid-back spot where you can enjoy a whiskey or two with your date while soaking in the unique ambience.

7. Cantina OK!

Cantina OK! offers an authentic and vibrant mezcal experience in an intimate, standing-room-only setting.

Cantina OK! is a tiny, 20-cap standing-room-only mezcal bar tucked away in a CBD laneway. Despite its small size, it packs a big punch with its authentic Mexican drinks and vibrant atmosphere. The bartenders are passionate about their craft, creating unique cocktails that showcase the rich flavours of mezcal. It’s a great spot for a quick, lively drink before heading off to your next destination.

8. Menzies Bar

Menzies Bar provides a refined, elegant setting for a sophisticated date night in the heart of the CBD.

Menzies Bar, located within the historic Shell House in the CBD, offers a refined and elegant setting for a sophisticated date night. The bar’s plush interiors and classic cocktails evoke a sense of timeless luxury. It’s the perfect spot for couples looking to enjoy a quiet, upscale evening with excellent service and a touch of old-world charm, which is why we love it as one of the best date-night spots in Sydney.

9. The Courty

The Courty offers a relaxed, no-frills date-night experience with its casual beer garden and friendly atmosphere.

The Courty, short for The Courthouse Hotel, is a beloved Newtown institution with a laid-back, friendly atmosphere. The large beer garden is perfect for a relaxed date, offering a casual setting where you can enjoy craft beers and pub fare under the stars. It’s a great spot for couples who prefer a more chilled evening.

10. Ante

Ante provides a tranquil, minimalist setting for an intimate date night with a focus on Sake, whiskey and quality music.

Ante is a minimalist Japanese-inspired bar that offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in Newtown, this bar is known for its curated selection of sake and Japanese whiskies. The simple yet elegant design creates a calming ambience, making it an ideal spot for a quiet, intimate date night focused on good drinks and better conversation.

11. Freda’s

Freda’s offers delicious food and cocktails to go with vibey music and one of Sydney’s finest people-watching destinations.

At Freda’s, everything is delicious. That’s the baseline. Add to that sick tunes from DJs spinning Fri and Sat, and an outdoor seating area that offers a view of Oxford St. and therefore some of Sydney’s finest people-watching, and you’ve got a date-night winner on your hands.

Conclusion

There’s a venue to suit every couple’s taste. With Bardar as your guide, finding the perfect spot for your next date night is simple and stress-free. So, plan your night out, and enjoy the best of what Sydney’s nightlife has to offer. More dates, less stress.

Admin_Bardar In Bars, Clubs, Guides, Sydney

The Best After-Party Spots in Sydney

In recent years Sydney has developed a few great spots for those who want to keep the party going into the early hours, the city offers some fantastic after-party spots. Whether you’re coming out of a club and not ready to call it a night or simply want to dance until dawn, these venues have you covered. With Bardar, you can easily find the best spots to keep the rave alive. Here’s our guide to the best after-party spots in Sydney.

1. Sutra Sunrise

Once per month, you can rest safe in the knowledge that no matter what time or where you end your night out, if you feel like reviving it you can head to Sutra and it will be epic.

A mini-festival happening once-per month from 11:30am Sat to 12:30pm Sun, Sutra Sunrise is a fantastic, colourful and psychadelic rave that turns the Bridge Hotel in Rozelle into a tropical dance music paradise. Sounds range through a variety of genres, encompassing everything from D&B to organica and deep house. Always packed, Sutra is one of the best after-party spots in Sydney, especially in Summer.

2. Breakfast at SASH

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, without a doubt, and similarly breakfast at S.A.S.H. is the most important long-weekend afters sesh there is.

S.A.S.H. is well known for distributing their brand of groovy, minimal house every Sunday and their “Breakfast at SASH” event is a must for after-party enthusiasts. Held from 5am to midday at Home The Venue every long weekend Monday, it’s a party that allows you to transition from Sunday-night depravity to Monday-morning revelry seamlessly. With top-notch house DJs, a lively crowd, and an unbeatable vibe, Breakfast at SASH is where you go when you’re not ready to stop dancing.

3. BASEMENT

Joining BASEMENT’s 4am crew is one of the best ways to shake off that last bit of sweat to some high-energy music before turning it in for the morning.

BASEMENT is the prime Saturday-night late-night event, providing an unreal space for lovers of harder dance music to put their brains and bodies through the wringer until 6am. The Bardar team particularly loves BASEMENT as an after-festival destination – hop in an uber there, recover for a minute in the booths over a cold bevvie and then plunge back into the action. The fact that BASEMENT is on every week makes it extra-reliable as an afters spot, and cements it as one of the best after-party spots in Sydney.

4. The Abercrombie

The Abercrombie is Sydney’s ultimate 24-hour party spot, offering non-stop music and a vibrant atmosphere.

The Abercrombie, recently reopened as Sydney’s only 24-hour nightclub, is a haven for those who want to party without worrying about closing times. Located in Chippendale, this multi-level venue offers a mix of Italo-disco, house, and techno across its various spaces. With events running through the night and into the early morning, The Abercrombie is the ultimate spot for after-party seekers who crave a continuous party atmosphere.

5. Club 77

While it wouldn’t have made this list were it written last year, 77 has recently acquired a 5am closing license AND kick-started a new series of Sundays at 77s, running from 6am Sunday to 4am Monday. Kick-ons galore.

Club 77 has been a staple of Sydney’s nightlife for decades. Known for its gritty, no-frills vibe and monster sound system – Club 77 specialises in house and techno, and it’s one of the few places that stay open until 5 AM on weekends. The club’s history and reputation for epic all-nighters make it a go-to for those who want to keep dancing well into the morning.

6. Universal

You’ve been out seeing a gig at the Oxford Art Factory, or partying late in the city, and you’re juuust not quite ready to go home yet – the only logical choice is the reliably-going Universal.

Universal, located on Oxford Street, is another excellent spot for those looking to keep on keepin on. This LGBTQ+ friendly venue is known for its inclusive atmosphere and high-energy dance floors. Open until the early hours of the morning, Universal plays a mix of house, techno, and pop, catering to a diverse crowd. Whether you’re coming from a night out on Oxford Street or looking for a welcoming space to dance until dawn, Universal has you covered.

Conclusion

While Sydney may not be the easiest place to kick-on indefinitely, these are a few solid options and with Bardar, you can easily check to see which of these spots is the most pumping on your night out, and select an afters destination accordingly.

Admin_Bardar In Bars, Sydney

Sydney’s Most Unique Bars

Intro

If you’re keen to mix up your night and go beyond the standard speakeasies and rooftop bars, this guide is for you. The Bardar team has worked hard to put together this list of (in our opinion) Sydney’s most unique bars. Rather than just looking for gimmicks, we’ve searched for venues that combine a unique aesthetic, atmosphere and combination of features to create an out-of-the-ordinary vibe.

The Guide

1. Pleasure Club

Pleasure Club is one of Sydney’s weirdest bars, with bizarre cocktails (i.e. the “Chicken Parm” and “Vegemite”), hot dogs, mystical interior design and live music until 4 am.

This lasciviously named basement bar revels in its completely outlandish mix of aesthetics and concepts – live music (mostly jazz) late into the night, hot dogs, eclectic cocktails ranging from delish to deliberately disgusting and an occult retro-future aesthetic (which may sound like complete gibberish, but is 100% accurate). Even if that doesn’t sound like it’s for you, indulging in the many Pleasures of the Club is a fantastically entertaining experience you should at least try once.

2. Tiva Bar

Tiva Bar is a sophisticated, super high-end bar that also hosts club nights focusing on afro, house and melodic techno.

At the opposite end of the spectrum from Pleasure Club, Tiva is a lavish bar that focuses on exceptional drinks, exceptional vibes and (later in the evening) exceptional music. Words like “opulent” and “luxurious” all spring to mind when first feasting one’s eyes on the interior of Tiva, but make no mistake – things get pretty silly and sweaty on the weekends when the DJ decks come out and the d-floor opens up.

3. Since I Left You

Since I Left You is a fantastic small bar situated entirely around a courtyard space in the centre of the city.

Hidden down an alleyway in an office-building courtyard, Since I Left You (SILY) is a charming bar that feels like an inner-city oasis. The main area of the venue is a courtyard space with astroturf, numerous potted plants and fairy lights, creating a magical garden atmosphere. SILY is known for its creative cocktails and delectable bar bites, making it a perfect spot for relaxed after-work drinks with mates. Live music and themed events add to its unique charm.

4. Buddy’s Newtown

A lively bar and pub in Newtown with a unique twist – all the delicious beverages on offer (beers, wines and cocktails) are self-served from a tap.

Buddy’s is a relaxed self-serve boozer in Newtown with a chill vibe, tasty pub food including pizzas, burgers and snacks and a regular rotation of events including bingo, live DJs and comedy.

5. Jakobi’s Tiki Bar

Sydney’s OG and most decorated tiki bar, Jakobi’s stands out with a unique aesthetic that’s one part Hawaiian boat-house, one part Twin Peaks homage and overall enormously fun.

You would be hard-pressed to find a more broader and more entertaining collection of tiki cups anywhere in Sydney, and while it would be fun drinking anything out of these extravagant chalices, the fact that the cocktails are unreal makes it all the better. The cocktail menu is diverse and delicious, with some of the more spectacular items being served spouting plumes of smoke and jets of flame. The lively atmosphere and friendly staff make it a great spot to escape the everyday and indulge in a bit of island fun.

6. Ante

Ante offers a minimalist and sophisticated setting to enjoy Sake while listening to judiciously selected jazz records pumping on a hi-fi sound system.

While the Japanese style sake and vinyl listening bar has become something of a trend, Ante is the prototypical example of this venue type and it makes an art form of the experience. The knowledgeable staff are passionate about their craft and are always forthcoming with excellent recommendations, while the interior design and overall aesthetic create the perfect vibe for appreciating sake and vinyl of only the highest quality.

7. Rosie Campbell’s

Rosie Campbell’s offers a vibrant Caribbean experience with reggae tunes, tropical cocktails, and delicious Jamaican cuisine.

Rosie Campbell’s brings a slice of the Caribbean to Sydney. This lively bar and restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere, reggae tunes, and mouthwatering Jamaican cuisine. The cocktail menu features tropical delights that perfectly complement the spicy dishes. It’s a place where the food, drinks, and music come together to create a festive and welcoming vibe.

8. Golden Age Cinema & Bar

With this beautiful art-deco cinema/ bar combo screening fantastic old and new films, hosting DJs and live music and mixing unreal drinks, the question is not “Why go?” but “Why leave?”

Golden Age Cinema & Bar offers a unique blend of film, drink and live music, located in the beautifully restored Paramount building in Surry Hills. The intimate cinema screens classic and independent films, while the adjoining bar serves up expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet snacks. The Golden Stage, meanwhile, hosts live music events ranging from hard-edged UKG DJs to relaxed R&B and Jazz live performances.

9. Tucanos

Tucanos is an energetic, tropical bar that combines Mediterranean, Hawaiian and Disco aesthetics, with regular live music, vinyl DJs and a thriving dance floor.

Tucanos is a vibrant Brazilian bar that brings the energy and excitement of Rio de Janeiro to Sydney. The décor is a riot of colours, and the atmosphere is always buzzing with the sound of samba and bossa nova. The cocktail menu is inspired by Brazilian flavours, featuring refreshing drinks like caipirinhas and batidas. With live music and dance performances, the party never stops at Tucanos.

10. Ivy Pool Club

The Ivy Pool Club is a summer party hotspot, when it’s Friday and Saturday night events attract international house music DJs, and nobody is afraid to risk a dip.

As Sydney’s only pool club, this bar is a necessary inclusion on any list of Sydney’s most unique bars. The Ivy Pool Club is a glamorous rooftop bar that feels like an oasis in the middle of the city. With its luxurious cabanas, sparkling pool, and lush greenery, it echoes the beach bars of the Mediterranean coast. Functioning as a bar earlier in the evening and transforming into a club as the night runs on, the only laps you’ll be doing are of the dance floor.

Outro

However strange, distinctive and wonderful these venues look on paper, they are even better in person! Sydney’s most unique bars are best experienced, rather than read about – and (while we’re pretty biased) the best way to experience Sydney nightlife is with the Bardar app in hand! Bardar gives you real-time info on all these venues including how busy they are, what’s on and any upcoming events. Use it to make the most of your nights visiting Sydney’s most unique bars.

Admin_Bardar In Bars, Guides, Sydney

The Bardar Guide to Sydney’s Best Bars

An intro to this guide

There can be no criticising Sydney’s bar scene. The depth and variety of venues across town, from basement drinking dens to relaxed rooftops, saloons to speakeasies, is simply awesome. The Bardar team loves getting around a bar the odd cocktail or two, and so we’ve compiled a (by no means exhaustive) list of Sydney’s best bars.

The guide

1. Old Mate’s Place

Old Mate’s Place is a hidden rooftop gem offering panoramic views and an impressive whiskey selection.

Ascend the narrow staircase of an unassuming building on Clarence St, and you’re greeted with an intimate setting that feels like a well-kept secret. The rooftop bar offers sweeping city views, making it an idyllic spot for both laid-back afternoons and lively evenings. Their cocktail menu, brimming with classics and innovative concoctions, pairs perfectly with an extensive whiskey selection that would make any enthusiast’s heart sing.

2. Maybe Sammy

Maybe Sammy blends 1950s glamour with masterfully crafted cocktails so well it earned the title of “Best Bar in Australasia” in 2023.

If Gatsby were to open a bar in modern-day Sydney, it would probably look like Maybe Sammy. Stepping into this 1950s-inspired cocktail bar is akin to stepping back in time, where elegance meets a touch of playful mischief. The bartenders here are performers in their own right, crafting cocktails with a flourish that is as entertaining as it is delicious. Each sip is a journey, each drink a story, making Maybe Sammy a must-visit for those who appreciate the finer things in life.

3. Apollonia

Apollonia offers a Sicilian escape with its classic Italian cocktails and cozy underground vibe.

To descend into Apollonia is to discover a secret haven inspired by the rustic charm of Sicily. This underground bar, with its dim lighting and intimate corners, invites you to savour classic Italian cocktails as authentic as they are delightful. The ambience whispers tales of old-world romance and clandestine meetings, perfectly encapsulating the essence of the Godfather character from which the bar draws its name.

4. Bar 1880

Bar 1880 marries historic charm with an innovative cocktail menu and is one of Sydney’s best new bars.

Situated in a historic building, Bar 1880 exudes a rich, vintage ambience that transports you to a bygone era. The sophisticated décor, complete with plush furnishings and ornate details, creates an atmosphere of refined elegance. Their selection of wines and spirits is carefully curated, ensuring that every glass is a testament to quality and taste. It’s the perfect spot for a quiet evening with friends, or an intimate date.

5. Dean and Nancy on 22

Dean and Nancy on 22 elevates your night with stunning city views and luxurious cocktails.

Dean and Nancy on 22 offers not just drinks, but an experience. The upscale, retro-chic décor, paired with an expertly crafted menu, makes it a destination for those looking to elevate their evening—both literally and figuratively. It’s a place where every detail is designed to impress, from the stunning views to the luxurious ambience.

6. Tio’s Cerveceria

Tio’s Cerveceria infuses Sydney’s nightlife with vibrant Mexican flair and a stellar tequila selection.

If you’re looking for a bar that feels like a fiesta every night, Tio’s Cerveceria is your destination. This Mexican-inspired bar is a riot of colours, eclectic décor, and an infectiously relaxed atmosphere. The margarita is the drink of choice here, and the many delicious takes on this classic slung at Tio’s make this bar a hotspot for those who prefer their nights with a bit of spice and a lot of fun.

7. Bar Planet

Bar Planet transports you to a celestial realm with its creative cocktails and cosmic ambience.

Bar Planet is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for a (please forgive us) out-of-this-world martini. With its celestial-themed décor and a menu that pushes the boundaries of creativity, this bar promises an otherworldly experience. From the complimentary popcorn to the gelato-slushy cocktails to their famous “Infinite Spirit” gin martinis, no Hitchhiker’s Guide to Sydney’s cocktail bars is complete without mentioning this fine establishment.

8. Shady Pines

Shady Pines delivers a Nashville honkey-tonk experience with great live music and expertly mixed drinks.

Walking into Shady Pines is like stepping into a rustic Nashville saloon. The atmosphere is laid-back, the décor charmingly rough-around-the-edges, and the live music a delightful treat. Known for its warm, friendly vibe and expertly crafted drinks, it’s a local favourite for those who want a break from the polished and the predictable.

9. Lobo

The Lobo brings the Caribbean to Sydney with its exceptional rum cocktails and tropical ambience.

Lobo is a celebration of all things rum. This Cuban-inspired bar, with its tropical décor and lively atmosphere, offers an extensive list of rum-based cocktails that will transport you straight to the Caribbean. The staff’s passion for their craft is evident in every drink, making it a must-visit for rum enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

10. Baxter Inn

Baxter Inn is a speakeasy-style bar with one of the best whiskey selections in Sydney.

The allure of Baxter Inn lies in its speakeasy charm. Nestled in a basement, this bar is a haven for whiskey lovers, boasting an extensive collection that spans the globe. The atmosphere is both intimate and unpretentious, inviting whisky connoisseurs and newbies alike to sample their diverse offerings.

11. PS40

PS40 sets the bar high with house-made sodas and inventive cocktails in a chic, industrial space.

Whereas most bars look to the past, harkening back to the drinking dens of bygone eras to create unique aesthetics, PS40 is refreshingly forward-looking. PS40 stands out with its innovative approach to mixology. Known for crafting their own sodas, this bar’s cocktails are creative, ingenious and futuristic. The modern, industrial décor adds to the vibe, making it a hotspot for those who appreciate cutting-edge drinks in a stylish setting.

12. The Rover

The Rover blends vintage charm with modern sophistication, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a relaxed, cosy setting.

Nestled in the heart of Surry Hills, The Rover is a charming bar that combines old-world elegance with the comforts of modernity. A warm and intimate ambience is created by the cozy, dimly lit interior – replete with exposed brick walls and plush banquettes to sink into. The Rover is renowned for its expertly crafted cocktails, which are as visually stunning as they are delicious. Their menu also features a carefully curated selection of wines and spirits, ensuring there’s something to satisfy every palate. With its warm vibe, the Rover is the perfect spot for a relaxed drink in Surry Hills.

13. The Caterpillar Club

The Caterpillar Club is a hidden speakeasy offering masterfully crafted cocktails, great vibes and live music in a charming, vintage setting.

Hidden away beneath the bustling streets of Sydney, The Caterpillar Club is a speakeasy-style bar that would feel like a well-kept secret, were it not for the massive line out the front. This gem of a bar exudes an air of sophistication and charm, with its dim lighting, plush vintage furnishings, and jazz-infused ambience. The Caterpillar Club bartenders are savants, and with a 4 am license on Fridays and Saturdays, are slinging their excellent beverages late into the evening. The Caterpillar Club also hosts “one of the world’s largest private record collections” and has live music and DJs, adding a lively touch to this sensual speakeasy.

Sydney Bar Crawls

Clarence St. Slide

This bar crawl takes advantage of the fact that four of Sydney’s best bars are so close together. Amble down Clarence St, hitting each of these venues at your leisure for a night of good times and better drinks.

Plan: The Lobo → Baxter Inn → Old Mate’s Place → PS40

Quay Crawl

This bar crawl focuses on the best spots in the Circular Quay area, hitting the busier Dean and Nancy and Maybe Sammy first before they get too packed and then heading over to the less flashy 1880 and Apollonia for a nightcap.

Plan: Caterpillar Club → Dean and Nancy on 22 → Maybe Sammy → Bar 1880 → Apollonia

Surry Hills Shindig

Heading over to Surry Hills, this bar crawl is a great way to spend a raucous Saturday night. A bit looser and more relaxed than the fancy spots in the city, these bars are the perfect places to unwind and catch up with your close pals. Plus, ending on Oxford St with Shady Pines leaves you with plenty of lively afters options, such as Universal, Carousel or Club 77.

Plan: The Rover → Tio’s → Shady Pines Saloon

Outro

Sydney’s bar scene is a kaleidoscope of experiences, each bar offering its own unique charm and character. Sydney’s best bars promise more than just great drinks — they offer stories, atmospheres, and moments that linger long after the night ends. That’s why we think you’ve got to get out there and start giving a few of these joints a try yourselves!

By the way, if you’re looking for the best method to discover even more of Sydney’s exceptional bars, check out the Bardar app – available now on iOS to help you amplify your nights out!

Bars

1. Enmore Road, Enmore/Newtown

2. Hollywood Quarter, Surry Hills

3. Crown Street, Surry Hills

4. Stanley Street, Darlinghurst

5. YCK Laneways, Sydney CBD

6. King Street, Newtown

7. Oxford Street, Darlinghurst

8. George Street, Sydney/Circular Quay

9. The Rocks

Conclusion

1. The Rover

2. The Beresford

3. Tucano’s

4. Hotel Harry

5. Shady Pines

6. Queens Hotel Enmore

7. Corridor Newtown

8. Tequila Mockingbird

Conclusion

1. Bar Planet

2. Apollonia

3. The Dolphin

4. Bad Mama’s

5. Alcatraz

6. Shady Pines

7. Cantina OK!

8. Menzies Bar

9. The Courty

10. Ante

11. Freda’s

Conclusion

1. Sutra Sunrise

2. Breakfast at SASH

3. BASEMENT

4. The Abercrombie

5. Club 77

6. Universal

Conclusion

Intro

The Guide

1. Pleasure Club

2. Tiva Bar

3. Since I Left You

4. Buddy’s Newtown

5. Jakobi’s Tiki Bar

6. Ante

7. Rosie Campbell’s

8. Golden Age Cinema & Bar

9. Tucanos

10. Ivy Pool Club

Outro

An intro to this guide

The guide

1. Old Mate’s Place

2. Maybe Sammy

3. Apollonia

4. Bar 1880

5. Dean and Nancy on 22

6. Tio’s Cerveceria

7. Bar Planet

8. Shady Pines

9. Lobo

10. Baxter Inn

11. PS40

12. The Rover

13. The Caterpillar Club

Sydney Bar Crawls

Clarence St. Slide

Quay Crawl

Surry Hills Shindig

Outro

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