Buddy's Bar Newtown

Buddy’s Bar Newtown is a two-level, self-serve bar on King Street with a format that makes choosing a drink part of the experience. The venue has more than 40 taps pouring a constantly changing selection of local craft beer, premium wines, house-made cocktails and non-alcoholic options. Rather than ordering each drink at the bar, guests pour for themselves, making it easy to compare different styles and start a conversation with the people nearby. There is also a food offering described around local produce, with function menus including a canapé menu and taco bar.

The space is designed for movement and interaction, with seating by the window, room to dance and a lively programme of DJs, live music and comedy. It is not presented as a quiet drinking den: the emphasis is on a social, energetic night where people can catch up with friends, meet someone new or settle in for a late session. The two-level layout also includes a private event space upstairs, making it suitable for parties and group bookings as well as casual drinks. The website encourages guests to reserve tables or enquire about functions ahead of time.

Buddy’s opened in January 2023 after an unusually hands-on build, which the owners describe through the long list of Bunnings trips, missed sleep and YouTube tutorials that went into creating it. Founders Jimmy and Duncs say they wanted to offer something distinctive, using the self-serve system to make the room more engaging and break down the barriers between strangers. That intention comes through in the venue’s focus on shared energy, conversation and the simple ritual of pouring a drink and asking someone what they recommend.

Located at 391 King Street, Buddy’s is a short walk from Newtown Station and suits groups looking for an interactive night out, private functions and solo visitors who enjoy a more social bar setting. It trades from late afternoon on Tuesday to Friday and from 2pm on Saturday, with Sunday and Monday listed as closed. A weekday happy hour is also advertised from 5pm to 7pm, featuring $7 beers and $10 wines.