10 Best Bars in Sydney, Australia

Sydney gives nightlife a whole new meaning with its colorful blend of world-class cocktail spots, laid-back drinking inns, and eclectic dive bars. It doesn’t matter what the mood calls for because this glamorous city of Australia has everything you’re looking for!

group in a bar

Here are the 10 best bars in Sydney, Australia to have some memorable nights out with the gang! 

Odd Culture Newtown

Straight out of Sydney’s most eclectic neighborhood, Odd Culture Newtown is a two-level industrial space with craft beer, natural wine, and all things bubbly!

Odd Culture has a very friendly staff and a vibrant crowd that make for a lively atmosphere. You’ll find some delicious food and drinks packed with creative flavors to take your taste buds on a rollercoaster ride! The bar has emerged as a popular post-work hang with some exciting lunch options and even a breakfast cocktail if you’re starting the day right!

This trendy dive is known for its out-of-the-box approach, experimenting with ingredients that you’d rarely find in your cocktails. You’ll stumble upon a wild concoction of minimal intervention wines and farmhouse ales to suit your taste. So, if you’re looking for a vibrant bar to enjoy a wicked all-dayer, Odd Culture is where you need to be.

Arcadia Liquors

Another full-of-life bar that sells all your favorite beer options, splendid wine, and some raving cocktails, Arcadia Liquors is among The Emerald City’s top dives. The bar has earned its rep as one of the top cocktail saloons in Sydney with some pretty good local brews as well. The establishment has an upstairs terrace and a well-lit outdoor courtyard that’s hard to miss. Grab some delicious toasties to go with your favorite drink and let the good times roll!

Although the bar closes at midnight, Arcadia Liquors will give you an evening you won’t forget. For some fine tunes and positive vibes, don’t forget to put this dive on your itinerary!

Earl’s Juke Joint

Earl’s Juke Joint is a true favorite when it comes to informal and rustic dives. This saloon-style establishment boasts a New Orleans vibe with distinguished interior décor. The exposed brick wall and corrugated iron ceiling add an authentic worn-in feel. With a warm embrace and some solid innings, you won’t find a better spot in all of Sydney that offers nearly any type of booze you can think of. Whether you want a cracking craft brew, a signature cocktail, or just some good old, minimal intervention wine, Earl’s Juke Joint won’t leave you disappointed!

The Barber Shop

Do you often fancy a drink after a fresh cut? The Barber Shop might sound like a place to get a mean buzz cut, but you can drink some great booze here as well! Located on York Street, this beaming post-work hotspot hides one of Sydney’s top cocktail and gin bars. You’ll find this comfy speakeasy bar adorned with classic, old-world décor that is sure to catch your sight! Don’t miss out on one of Sydney’s hottest barbershops cum dives!

Cantina OK!

Although a small, cozy dive, Cantina OK! has made quite a name for itself on an international scale. The trendy bar has managed to break into the world’s top 50 bars list with everything hand-done — hand-pressed limes, hand-shaved ice and hand-made agave spirits. The staff will serve you their takes on some classic Latin cocktails. Don’t forget to put this rustic-chic bar on your must-visit list!

Maybe Sammy

If sophisticated art deco vibes and classy cocktails captivate you, Maybe Sammy is your go-to? Although the name makes you want to question if you really should go there, the ambience and amazing booze would beg to differ. Plus, the awards speak for themselves — Maybe Sammy has been ranked as the 22nd best bar in the world while retaining its position as Australia’s best bar for the third year in a row. This 1950s- inspired CBD bar has everything on your checklist for a banger night out with the pals!

Double Deuce Lounge

The moment you step foot in the Double Deuce Lounge, you’ll be overwhelmed by the 1970s funky, soulful vibe and a furry feature wall! You’ll lose yourself in their delicious cocktails, scrumptious cheesy cabanossi, Jatz plate, cubed cheese, and did we mention cheese? With a setting that draws inspiration from the Golden Age of Porn, Double Deuce Lounge gives a whole new meaning to the term “Good Times!” Enjoy the tunes of the Boogie Nights-era classics and have yourself a wild night!

Dear Sainte Éloise

Dear Sainte Éloise boasts a Euro-centric feel with a beautiful perch that overlooks Llankelly Place — a destination that’s always bustling with lights! The name of this classy dive is an ode to George Orwell’s memoir, Down and Out in Paris and London. Be warned though; you might easily forget what drink number you’re on as the Sainte Éloise staff surely know their way around a superb wine list!

Baxter’s Inn

Baxter’s Inn is an independent and cozy establishment on Sydney’s Clarence Street. This classy cocktail and top-line whiskey spot has also made it to the world’s 50 best bars list. You’ll enjoy their extensive whisky collection and a fine Old Fashioned on tap — a well-mixed drink to enjoy within seconds! Baxter’s Inn also has over 800 bottles from every Scottish distillery in stock. This one’s certainly hard to miss on your travel list!

CIRQ

CIRQ is a classy rooftop bar with a well-lit terrace that sits on the 26th level of Crown Sydney. You’ll find yourself mesmerized by the remarkable bridge views, some killer food items, and delicious top-shelf cocktails! Enjoy a boujee night out with the mates that you’ll never forget in Sydney’s own CIRQ!

So, are you prepared to immerse yourself in the drinking culture of Sin City? UIS Australia is a certified consultancy with professionals trained to help you acquire an Australian visa without a hassle! Book yourself a free consultation today and get ready to explore the best of Sydney’s bars!

Ron Ford

Ron Ford immigrated with his family to Australia in 2005 to work as a social worker. Following their difficult immigration process, he slowly turned to blogging and creating content about immigration: "…As a family of 5, we struggled to make ends meet. I was working around the clock and Clarissa was working in housekeeping any time she could spare. The move to Australia completely changed our lives, but it cost us a lot of money, time, and tears. Ever since I've wanted to help others on their journeys the way I wished someone had helped us".

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