12 Best Bars in Sydney to Visit Right Now
Sydney's bar scene spans hidden speakeasies, rooftop venues with views, and neighbourhood spots worth the trek. Whether you're after craft cocktails, wine, or a casual drink with mates, these venues offer something distinct. Here's where to head for your next night out across the city.
- 1Bars Sydney CBD
1. The Baxter Inn
Located in the CBD, this venue offers a focused bar experience in the heart of the city.
View venue4.7(3,940)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look 
2Bars Sydney CBD2. Papa Gede's Bar | Cocktail Bar Sydney
A CBD cocktail bar worth visiting if you're seeking craft drink options in the city centre.
View venue4.8(1,227)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
3Bars Darling Harbour3. Untied - Rooftop Sydney
Head to Darling Harbour for elevated views and a rooftop setting that makes any night feel special.
View venue4.7(3,860)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Bars Sydney CBD4. Cantina OK!
This CBD spot brings a different vibe to the city's bar offerings.
View venue4.8(1,015)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Bars Bondi5. Pocket Bondi
If you're heading to Bondi, this venue gives you a reason to stay for a drink with a beachside suburb feel.
View venue4.8(861)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Bars Sydney CBD6. Old Mate's Place
A CBD bar with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere for a casual evening out.
View venue4.7(1,395)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Bars Sydney CBD7. Bar 83 at Sydney Tower
Visit for unbeatable views across Sydney from one of the city's most iconic locations.
View venue4.6(2,042)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Bars Sydney CBD8. Shady Pines Saloon
Located in the CBD, this saloon brings a distinct character to Sydney's bar landscape.
View venue4.7(1,317)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Bars Surry Hills9. The Rover
Surry Hills location makes this a natural stop if you're exploring the inner city's hospitality precinct.
View venue4.6(1,232)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Bars Surry Hills10. The Winery
Head to Surry Hills for a wine-focused bar experience in a lively neighbourhood.
View venue4.5(3,378)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Bars Sydney CBD11. Bitter Phew
A CBD venue offering its own take on the city's competitive bar scene.
View venue4.7(851)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Bars Sydney CBD12. Employees Only Restaurant & Bar
This CBD spot combines dining and drinking in one venue, useful if you're planning a full night out.
View venue4.5(2,190)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Baxter Inn | 68/100 | 4.7(3,940) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Papa Gede's Bar | Cocktail Bar Sydney | 68/100 | 4.8(1,227) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Untied - Rooftop Sydney | 68/100 | 4.7(3,860) | $$$ | Darling Harbour | — |
| Cantina OK! | 68/100 | 4.8(1,015) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Pocket Bondi | 67/100 | 4.8(861) | — | Bondi | — |
| Old Mate's Place | 67/100 | 4.7(1,395) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Bar 83 at Sydney Tower | 67/100 | 4.6(2,042) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Shady Pines Saloon | 67/100 | 4.7(1,317) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| The Rover | 66/100 | 4.6(1,232) | $$ | Surry Hills | — |
| The Winery | 66/100 | 4.5(3,378) | $$$ | Surry Hills | — |
| Bitter Phew | 66/100 | 4.7(851) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Employees Only Restaurant & Bar | 66/100 | 4.5(2,190) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
Frequently asked questions
Where are most of Sydney's best bars located?+
The majority of quality bars are concentrated in Sydney's CBD, with notable options also in Surry Hills, Darling Harbour, and Bondi. The CBD clustering makes it practical for a single night of bar hopping.
Are there bars outside the CBD?+
Yes. The Rover and The Winery are in Surry Hills, Untied is in Darling Harbour, and Pocket Bondi is in Bondi. These offer reasons to explore different parts of the city.
Which bar has the best views?+
Bar 83 at Sydney Tower is located at height with views across Sydney, making it unique among these venues for that experience.
Is there a rooftop bar option?+
Untied in Darling Harbour is a rooftop bar, offering that experience if you're after outdoor and elevated settings.
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