Old Love's

Old Love's sits in a basement on Clarence Street in the heart of the Sydney CBD. A characterful underground cocktail bar, it's earned a near-flawless reputation — the kind of atmospheric, in-the-know spot that rewards seeking out, descending below street level into a moody, intimate space devoted to expertly made drinks.

The appeal is that combination of genuinely good cocktails, a wonderfully atmospheric basement setting and the sense of discovery that comes with a hidden city bar, ideal for after-work drinks, a date or a special night out. Its characterful underground space and serious approach to drinks have made it a beloved fixture of the Sydney bar scene, and the near-perfect feedback speaks to a place getting it just right.

A 4.9 rating from more than 270 reviews is an excellent result and a strong sign of quality drinks and a great atmosphere. Cocktail lists, any food, opening hours and booking arrangements vary, and a popular hidden bar fills up on weekends, so it's worth checking current details before you go — particularly if you're heading out with a group or want to settle in on a busy night in this characterful underground spot.