Sydney's small-bar revolution has produced one of Asia-Pacific's deepest speakeasy scenes. The 10 below show why.
Part of our 50 Best Hidden Gem Bars in the World listThis article is one chapter in our larger global guide. See the full pillar with every featured city.
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The 10 best hidden gem bars in Sydney
01 · Sydney
Darlinghurst
$$$
Speakeasy · Reservations
Through the Kirketon Hotel.
Order: Bartender's choice with rye
02 · Sydney
CBD
$$
Down an alley · 800+ whiskies
At the back of an alley off York Street.
Order: A Japanese whisky neat
03 · Sydney
CBD
$$
Speakeasy · Through a stairwell
At the top of an unmarked stairwell.
Order: Bartender's choice
04 · Sydney
CBD
$$
Tiny · Mezcal-led
Sister bar to Tio's. Tiny, mezcal-led.
Order: A flight of mezcals + a Margarita al Pastor
05 · Sydney
CBD
$$
Tiki-leaning · Cuban
Cuban-inspired tropical cocktail bar.
Order: A Mai Tai with their reserve aged rum
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06 · Sydney
The Rocks
$$$
Pastel · Showmanship
Stefano Catino's Vegas-meets-Sydney room.
Order: Sammy Special
07 · Sydney
Circular Quay
$$
Daily-changing menu
The menu changes every day based on whatever produce arrives.
Order: Whatever's on today
08 · Sydney
CBD
$$
Cocktail bar · Modern
Modern CBD cocktail bar with a sister soda factory.
Order: A drink built around their house-made tonic
09 · Sydney
Surry Hills
$$
Brewery + cocktails
Surry Hills brewery with a serious cocktail program.
Order: A craft beer + a stirred cocktail
10 · Sydney
CBD
$$$$
Hotel bar · 25th floor
On the 25th floor of the A by Adina hotel.
Order: A Manhattan with the harbour view
More Sydney hidden gemsThe full Sydney hidden-gem-bar index by neighbourhood.
See the full list
How Sydney hides its best
Eau de Vie and Baxter Inn are essential. Most peak between 9 and 11 PM.
