12 Best Bars in Sydney CBD
Sydney's CBD has plenty of drinking holes to suit different moods—from craft beer joints to cocktail bars with views. Whether you're after a speakeasy vibe, live music, or a quiet corner to catch up with mates, there's something worth visiting in the city centre.
- 1Bars Sydney CBD
1. The Baxter Inn
A solid spot for whiskey enthusiasts and those who appreciate a focused, no-fuss drinking experience in the CBD.
View venue4.7(3,940)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look 
2Bars Sydney CBD2. Cantina OK!
If you're after a neighbourhood bar atmosphere with a more relaxed vibe, this is a straightforward choice in the CBD.
View venue4.8(1,015)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
3Bars Sydney CBD3. Papa Gede's Bar | Cocktail Bar Sydney
A dedicated cocktail venue for those wanting properly made drinks in the heart of the city.
View venue4.8(1,227)· Google$$$$68Spot ScoreWorth a Look
4Bars Sydney CBD4. Shady Pines Saloon
Offers a different setting if you're in the mood for something themed and character-filled.
View venue4.7(1,317)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
5Bars Sydney CBD5. Bar 83 at Sydney Tower
The standout choice if you want to combine drinks with views over Sydney Harbour and the city skyline.
View venue4.6(2,042)· Google67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
6Bars Sydney CBD6. Old Mate's Place
A casual, unpretentious option for a straightforward night out in the CBD.
View venue4.7(1,395)· Google$$$$67Spot ScoreWorth a Look
7Bars Sydney CBD7. Employees Only Restaurant & Bar
Combines food and drink in one venue, useful if you want more than just a drink.
View venue4.5(2,190)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
8Bars Sydney CBD8. The Noble Hops
The pick for serious beer drinkers wanting a range of quality brews in the CBD.
View venue4.8(542)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
9Bars Sydney CBD9. Bitter Phew
Another solid craft beer option if you want choice and expertise in your glass.
View venue4.7(851)· Google$$$$66Spot ScoreWorth a Look
10Bars Sydney CBD10. RAMBLIN RASCAL
A venue with its own distinct personality if you want something a bit different from the standard CBD bar.
View venue4.6(997)· Google$$$$65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
11Bars Sydney CBD11. Cardea Sydney – Cocktail & Live Music Bar
The choice if you want cocktails paired with live entertainment to set the mood.
View venue4.6(865)· Google65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
12Bars Sydney CBD12. The Lobo
Another option with character if you're exploring bars with a particular theme or atmosphere.
View venue4.6(1,149)· Google$$$$65Spot ScoreWorth a Look
At a glance
| Venue | Spot Score | Price | Suburb | Top feature | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Baxter Inn | 68/100 | 4.7(3,940) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Cantina OK! | 68/100 | 4.8(1,015) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Papa Gede's Bar | Cocktail Bar Sydney | 68/100 | 4.8(1,227) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Shady Pines Saloon | 67/100 | 4.7(1,317) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Bar 83 at Sydney Tower | 67/100 | 4.6(2,042) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| Old Mate's Place | 67/100 | 4.7(1,395) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Employees Only Restaurant & Bar | 66/100 | 4.5(2,190) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| The Noble Hops | 66/100 | 4.8(542) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Bitter Phew | 66/100 | 4.7(851) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| RAMBLIN RASCAL | 65/100 | 4.6(997) | $$ | Sydney CBD | — |
| Cardea Sydney – Cocktail & Live Music Bar | 65/100 | 4.6(865) | — | Sydney CBD | — |
| The Lobo | 65/100 | 4.6(1,149) | $$$ | Sydney CBD | — |
Frequently asked questions
Which CBD bar has the best views?+
Bar 83 at Sydney Tower is your best bet for views, being located at height in the Tower with sightlines over the harbour and city.
Where can I get live music with a drink in the CBD?+
Cardea Sydney – Cocktail & Live Music Bar specifically combines cocktails with live entertainment.
Which bars focus on craft beer?+
The Noble Hops and Bitter Phew are both highlighted as beer-focused venues in the CBD.
Are there bars that serve food as well?+
Employees Only Restaurant & Bar combines both food and drinks in one venue.
What style of bars are in Sydney CBD?+
The CBD has a mix of craft beer bars, cocktail venues, themed saloons, and casual neighbourhood-style drinking spots. Individual venues each have their own approach to atmosphere and focus.
Keep exploring
Sydney guides
roundupSydney Nightlife: The Best Bars & Live Music
From hidden CBD cocktail rooms to Bondi beachfront drinks, these are Sydney bars worth choosing for their setting, speciality and atmosphere.
Read guide →roundupFree Things to Do in Sydney
Plan a free Sydney day around harbour walks, coastal views, beaches, parks and lookouts, with honest notes on the paid experiences worth considering.
Read guide →roundupSydney With Kids: Family-Friendly Things to Do
From harbour parks and Northern Beaches to Sydney Park and hands-on challenges, these family outings make it easier to plan a day with kids.
Read guide →The best of Sydney, in your inbox
New openings, hidden gems and weekend ideas. One thoughtful email a week. No spam.