As the central hub of Australia, Sydney’s drinking scene is bustling with trendy rooftop gardens, Hipster breweries and up-market cocktail bars. It can be difficult to choose where you want to go when there is so much choice, especially if it’s your first visit, or, if you’re on vacation and limited on time. So, to make your life a little easier, we’ve put together our top 5 bars, that we think you’ll love:
- Opera Bar
Renowned as ‘the best beer garden in the world’, Opera Bar is a popular pit-stop for tourists and locals alike. Its water front location offers panoramic views of Sydney’s most sought after land marks, including the Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the dazzling harbour itself. The stunning setting, paired with a vast menu makes Opera Bar a great place for a working lunch, or, a date night dinner and cocktails. Much of the fresh produce is locally sourced, so you can rest assured that you’ve had a real Aussie experience!
- Goros
For a quirkier vibe, Goros bar and restaurant replicates a traditional Japanese menu, serving chilled Ashai and Sapporo for a refreshing tipple and a mix of dishes from Bento boxes to Miso salads. Hit up the karaoke booth’s and sing along to everything from 90’s classics to Afrika Bambaataa, but be sure to book in advance if you’re planning a boozy weekend, as it fills up fast! Goros brings a taste of Tokyo to Sydney, perfect if you’re fancying a change of culture for the evening.
- The Light Brigade
The recently refurbished Light Brigade pub channels a classic art deco vibe with a modern twist. The roof-top bar is it’s crowning glory, offering visitors a spectacular view of Sydney’s horizon. Visit in the early evening and enjoy a glass of their favourite du jour slushy whilst the sun sets. If you’re staying for dinner, be sure to try one of the wood-fired oven pizzas at Subida, then retire to Brigade Lounge for intimate cocktails. Or, visit the Brigade Bar on game days and embrace the Aussie passion for sports – there’s something for everyone here!
- Ivy Pool Club
https://merivale.com.au/poolclub
Another roof-top bar to add to the list is the exclusive Ivy Pool Club. Visitors can recline by the pool side accompanied by a signature cocktail, our favourite is the lethal, yet refreshing Passionfruit Long Island Ice Tea. Embracing 1960’s Palm Springs, The Ivy Pool Club uniquely blends kitsch design with an opulent atmosphere, making it 100% Instagram-able!
- The Gretz
Part of the Hartsyard family, The Gretz is a true reflection of how we imagine the ultimate neighbourhood bar. The moody lighting creates a shadowy setting, perfect for a chilled evening with friends, whereas in the evening, the uplifting playlist creates a lively feel. It’s the perfect transition from ‘just a couple’ to ‘out-out’. The drinks list extends from local brews to traditional spirit-mixer combos, and the menu offers ultimate comfort with twists on pub-classics. Fish & chips anyone?
If this has got you feeling thirsty and a trip to the local just won’t suffice, then you’ll want to check out compare and choose, to compare the best deals on flights, hotels and holidays to the land down over. You’ll be able to explore our fave bars, first hand!