Best Bars in Sydney

Employees Only is an award-winning cocktail bar hidden behind an unassuming psychic sign. It combines flawlessly executed cocktails with delicious food in a beautiful space.

Hickson House in The Rocks is home to Hickson House Gin — the first of many spirits to be distilled here. An impressive bar stocks over 600 bottles from all over the world, with a strong focus on Australian-made spirits, including hard-to-find whiskies. With its ever-evolving cocktail list, it’s a definite must-visit for liquor lovers wanting to enjoy something new.

Dean and Nancy offer views of Sydney’s skyline in the surrounds of mid-century decadence with gold-veined marble and a curved brass staircase and some of the best cocktails in town. Perched high in the sky at A by Adina Hotel, this 1950s-inspired bar delivers old-school hospitality with a modern twist.

Playful, stylish and consistently ranked among the world’s best, Maybe Sammy is a cocktail bar like no other. Expect tuxedo-clad bartenders, award-winning drinks and spontaneous entertainment. A true gem in the Sydney bar scene.

O Bar is Sydney’s only revolving cocktail bar. Graze on the delicious food menu and take in the spectacular 360-degree views, 47 floors above the city. It’s one of the best bars in the Sydney CBD for a date night, for welcoming travelling friends and family, or simply to celebrate a special occasion.

Filled with lush greenery and florals, this newly transformed rooftop terrace space in the heart of the Sydney CBD, is an idyllic escape for after-work drinks at the 5-7pm happy hour, or Saturday afternoons with live music.

Located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, Menzies Bar & Bistro pays homage to the legendary Menzies Hotel. This European-inspired venue offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, featuring a menu that showcases modern, produce-forward dishes alongside a curated selection of cocktails and wines.

Bright, breezy and full of tropical energy, Cabana Bar brings a splash of coastal charm to the CBD. Its large terrace, vibrant décor and upbeat vibe make it one of the best bars in Sydney for alfresco cocktails and lively catch-ups.

Esteban is a CBD restaurant and bar well known for exceptional Mexican cuisine and cocktails in a dark, romantic fine-dining ambience. It’s one of the best bars in Sydney for mezcal and tequila lovers alike.

Highland Whiskey Bar is full of old-world charm, with polished oak and marble, and welcomes both hotel guests and those looking for a place to relax and unwind in elegant surroundings.

The Baxter Inn is a Sydney icon known for its staggering whiskey collection and hidden basement location. It’s dimly lit, always buzzing and hands-down one of the best bars in the Sydney CBD for a dram or three.

Rover Bar is a bustling neighbourhood bar and bistro in Surry Hills serving world-class cocktails, freshly shucked oysters and bistro classics that can be enjoyed at their copper-topped bar. It’s one of the best bars in Surry Hills for its personality and produce-driven drinks, bringing London pub meets New York Bistro energy to this vibrant inner-city neighbourhood.

A love letter to Australian produce and native ingredients, The Waratah combines heritage pub charm with rooftop energy. Enjoy house cocktails with a local twist and a food menu that supports small producers, all in one of the Inner East’s most inviting settings.

With a hidden entrance and vintage decor, Old Mates Place is one of the best rooftop bars in the city. This bar blends classic cocktails with modern concoctions — perfect for a relaxed evening or an impromptu night out.