Sydney’s nightlife is an irresistible blend of energy and sophistication. If you are visiting the city or staying in a nearby neighbourhood, Sydney has something to offer. The atmosphere is vibrant, and you’ll surely love the cocktails and the live music. Below is our curated list of the best bars in Sydney that promise an exceptional night out.
Best Cocktail Bars in Sydney
The Baxter Inn
Address: 152/156 Clarence St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Mon–Sun: 4 pm–3 am
Step into the whisky world at The Baxter Inn, a dimly-lit, basement-style bar with an unparalleled collection of whisky from around the globe. The intimate ambience with bluesy tunes invites guests to sip on expertly crafted cocktails or enjoy a crisp beer. Check out their pretzels as the perfect snack to accompany your drink of choice.
PS40
Address: 40 King St Enter, Skittle Ln, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Tues & Wed: 5 pm–12 am
- Thurs – Sat: 5 pm–1 am
PS40 elevates cocktail-making into an art, thanks to its menu that balances creativity with a taste for quality. This bar is renowned for its house-made sodas, which create a variety of drinks with unique flavours. Whether you are out for a casual evening or a celebration, you won’t go wrong stopping by this bar.
Arches on Market
Address: Level 8/68 Market St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Mon–Sun: 12 pm–11 pm
Arches on Market is located above Sydney’s thriving CBD and is one of the bars that offers old-world charm with a modern twist. Stop by to enjoy a martini or champagne under elegant arches, or visit the bar on Fridays to catch the live piano entertainment and an exciting, happy hour menu afterwards. This spot is perfect for a sophisticated evening out with a friend or significant other.
Best Jazz Bars in Sydney
The Swinging Cat
Address: 44 King St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Wed: 5 pm–10 pm
- Thurs: 5 pm–11 pm
- Fri–Sat: 5 pm–12 am
Inspired by New Orleans’ vibrant culture, The Swinging Cat is a cosy, underground bar where live jazz music sets the tone for an unforgettable night. This bar features vintage decor and expertly crafted cocktails. The staff are friendly and welcoming, plus you won’t want to miss their live Jazz Music on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Restaurant Hubert
Address: 15 Bligh St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Mon-Sun: 12–3 pm, 5 pm–12 am
Known for its Parisian flair and incredible live jazz, Restaurant Hubert blends fine dining with lively music. The plush interiors and carefully curated wine list make this bar a favourite spot for romantic evenings and special occasions. If you are a Jazz lover, don’t miss the chance to dance to your favourite melody in the Beatrix Dining Room.
The Caterpillar Club
Address: 92 Pitt St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Mon-Thurs & Sun: 4 pm–3 am
- Fri-Sat: 4 pm–4 am
For late-night jazz enthusiasts, The Caterpillar Club is a must-visit. This bar has one of the largest private vinyl collections and a menu that features snacks like their famous cheeseburger. The Caterpillar Club promises a laid-back vibe and is one of the cosy spots to enjoy live music and cocktails into the early hours.
Best Bars in Sydney’s CBD
Sky Bar at Shell House
Address: 37 Margaret St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 pm–12 am
- Sunday: Closed
This is an open-air bar that wraps around the historic Shell House Clocktower. It features retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors, allowing guests to enjoy unobstructed city views. The premium wine pairings and the chef’s table experience come highly recommended at this bar.
Ragazzi
Address: 1 Angel Pl, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 12 pm–12 am
- Sunday: Closed
Tucked away in Angel Place, Ragazzi feels like a slice of Italy in Sydney’s CBD. It is known for its welcoming ambience and the impressive 300-bottle wine list. This bar specialises in handmade pasta, but the menu changes weekly. Ragazzi has the unique ability to feel upscale yet approachable and is undoubtedly one of the best spots to have a leisurely dinner.
Maybe Sammy
Address: 115 Harrington St, The Rocks
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4:30 pm–12 am
- Friday & Saturday: 3:30 pm–1 am
- Sunday & Monday: Closed
Maybe Sammy is known for its glamorous setting with touches of Vegas-style vibe. It features award-winning bartenders and unique cocktail presentations, making it an unmissable cocktail joint in Sydney. The bar’s happy hour, which features mini versions of their innovative cocktails, is a perfect way to explore their offerings.
Best Hidden Bars in Sydney
The Lobo
Address: Basement lot 1/209 Clarence St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Sunday: 5 pm–2 am
The Lobo is an underground bar hidden behind heavy wooden doors and down a winding staircase. Their extensive rum collection spans countries like Cuba, Barbados, and Martinique, while the cocktail list offers playful creations like the pineapple-infused Mr. Magoo.
Door Knock
Address: Basement/70 Pitt St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 12 pm–12 am
- Saturday: 4 pm–1 am
- Sunday: Closed
Finding Door Knock is an adventure on its own. This bar is hidden behind a fire door and is marked by a pineapple doorknocker. Once inside, the ambience is intimate and inviting, with warm lighting and thoughtful decor. The cocktail menu is as creative as it gets, thanks to the unique flavours like kiwi-infused vermouth and espresso-whiskey concoctions. Door Knock also has a food menu that features dishes like mac-and-cheese croquettes and miso eggplant.
Tiva
Address: 68 King St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Thursday & Friday: 5 pm–2 am
- Saturday: 8 pm–4 am
- Sunday to Wednesday: Closed
Tiva is one of the standout venues known for its plush booths, marble bar, and curated entertainment. Drinks lean heavily on tequila and champagne, with highlights like Tequila Rose, a show-stopping martini served tableside. The bar snacks, on the other hand, are crafted with love and precision, and you can try out their crispy hash browns with roasted chicken cream.
Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
The Library Bar
Address: 1 Shakespeare Pl, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Thursday to Saturday: 4 pm–11 pm
- Sunday to Wednesday: Closed
The Library Bar sits atop the historic State Library, offering a blend of culture and stunning views. This rooftop space combines a warm indoor bar with timber accents and an outdoor deck ideal for sunset drinks. The menu highlights local Australian produce, with cheese platters and chargrilled veggies stealing the show. Visit this spot to enjoy your favourite snacks with a Library Martini or a craft beer from a local brewery.
Zephyr Bar
Address: Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 3 pm–10 pm
- Friday: 3 pm–12 am
- Saturday: 2 pm–12 am
- Sunday: 2 pm–10 pm
- Monday: Closed
Located on the 12th floor of the Hyatt Regency, Zephyr Bar is a sky-high haven for cocktail lovers. This bar offers great cocktails, like their expertly crafted martinis. While seating is weather-dependent, the ambience and views make it worth the visit.
Untied – Rooftop Sydney
Address: Level 4/400 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 pm–10 pm
- Friday & Saturday: 12 pm–12 am
- Sunday: 12 pm–9 pm
Untied brings tropical vibes to the heart of Barangaroo. The rooftop is adorned with lush greenery and bright decor, which offers a laid-back yet elegant setting. Their menu celebrates contemporary Australian flavours, from wood-fired BBQ to plant-based dishes. Sip on a frozen yuzu gin and tonic or a spritz as you enjoy the views and lively atmosphere.
Read more: Best things to do in Sydney 2025
Make the Most Out of Your Sydney Trip with L’Abode Accommodation
With so much to explore in Sydney, you can make the most of your adventure with L’Abode Accommodation. Whether you are a solo traveller, a couple on a getaway, a family on vacation, or a group exploring the city, we offer a range of thoughtfully curated accommodation options to suit every preference.
When you book with us, you enjoy the freedom and comfort of a cosy, fully furnished boutique home in some of Sydney’s finest locations. Book your stay in Sydney with us or check out our services and varied locations to discover why discerning travellers and homeowners trust us for exceptional services and unforgettable stays.