Sydney, a city renowned for its iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge, also boasts a vibrant culinary scene. From hidden speakeasies to waterfront wonders, this guide unveils the city’s best-kept secrets for an unforgettable dining experience.
Hidden Gems in the Heart of the City
Apollonia: Nestled beneath an old wool store, this secret cocktail haven inspired by “The Godfather” offers Sicilian romance in each sip. With a meticulously curated cocktail menu and sumptuous snacks, Apollonia is a must-visit for those seeking an intimate and exclusive bar experience. Explore more at Apollonia’s website.
Adding to the mystique of city’s bar scene, Employees Only emerges as a slice of New York’s vibrant nightlife right in Sydney’s heart. Hidden behind a psychic’s storefront, this bar extends its warm, eclectic ambiance to anyone looking for a hint of the extraordinary. From its renowned EO Manhattan to the fiery Playing With Fire cocktail, Employees Only is a testament to Sydney’s dynamic bar culture. Discover more about this hidden gem and possibly your future at Employees Only.
Suburban Delights: Where Locals Dine
Earl’s Juke Joint: Disguised as a butcher shop, this Newtown bar pays homage to New Orleans with eclectic music, strong cocktails, and a cool, secretive vibe. It’s the perfect spot for those in the know. Discover the unique atmosphere at Earl’s Juke Joint’s website.
Love, Tilly Devine takes the concept of a wine bar to a whole new level. Nestled in a Darlinghurst laneway, this intimate space boasts an impressive selection of minimal intervention wines. It’s the perfect backdrop for indulging in carefully crafted small plates, making it an essential destination for wine lovers and foodies alike. For a cosy evening exploring Australia’s finest wines, visit Love, Tilly Devine’s website.
Waterfront Wonders: Dining with a View
Catalina Rose Bay: Offering panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, Catalina is synonymous with chic coastal style and luxurious dining. With a focus on seasonal local produce and sustainably sourced seafood, the menu at Catalina changes daily, ensuring a unique experience with each visit. For reservations and more details, visit Catalina Rose Bay’s official website.
The Boathouse CYCA offers a fresh Mediterranean menu against the backdrop of Rushcutters Bay’s serene waters. Whether you’re there for a leisurely breakfast or a sunset dinner, the Boathouse’s combination of stunning views and delicious fare makes it a must-visit spot for those seeking dining with a view. Experience the maritime charm firsthand by checking out The Boathouse CYCA.
Sustainable and Artisan Eats
Rising Sun Workshop: A combination of a motorcycle workshop and a café, Rising Sun Workshop in Newtown is known for its communal spirit and innovative Japanese-inspired menu. This spot embodies the essence of sustainability and artisanal practices. Learn more about their story at Rising Sun Workshop’s website.
The Doss House presents an entirely different angle on sustainability and artisanal practices. This whisky bar, rich with history and housed in a heritage building, offers an extensive selection of whiskies and a cosy atmosphere that whispers tales of the past. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to savour history with every sip. Delve into The Doss House’s storied past at The Doss House’s website.
Latin-Inspired Cocktails and Cuisine
Lobo Plantation: A rum bar that transports its guests to a Caribbean jungle hideout, offering Latin-inspired cuisine along with a vast selection of rum. Perfect for those looking to experience the warmth and vibrancy of Latin America in the heart of Sydney. Visit Lobo Plantation’s website for more information.
Joining Lobo Plantation in offering a taste of Latin America, Cantina OK! celebrates mezcal and tequila in a tiny but mighty space. This award-winning garage bar might be small, but it packs a punch with its extensive selection of spirits and inventive cocktails. It’s a vibrant spot for adventurous drinkers and mezcal aficionados alike. Embark on a mezcal journey at Cantina OK!’s Instagram.