Sydney’s bar scene goes far beyond the obvious harborside venues and rooftop lounges that grace tourism brochures. Behind unmarked doors, down dimly lit laneways, and within historic buildings lies a world of speakeasies and hidden gems that showcase the city’s most creative mixology.
These secret spots range from intimate jazz bars to experimental cocktail laboratories, each offering a unique experience that rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path.
The Baxter Inn
Hidden in a basement off Clarence Street, this whiskey lover’s paradise stocks over 800 rare and exceptional spirits. The vintage-style space features warm wooden shelving that reaches the ceiling, with bartenders using rolling ladders to access the highest bottles.
The complimentary pretzels and old-school blues music create an atmosphere that transports you to a prohibition-era American speakeasy.
Door Knock
Finding this bar requires following brass pineapples down an office building hallway and knocking on an unmarked wooden door. The underground space combines tropical decor with sophisticated cocktails featuring house-made ingredients and unique spirits.
The bar’s signature coconut negroni and weekly changing punch bowls have earned it a devoted following among Sydney’s cocktail enthusiasts.
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Bulletin Place
Tucked away in a heritage building, this tiny bar changes its cocktail menu daily based on the freshest seasonal fruits available at local markets. The intimate space features exposed brick walls and simple wooden furniture that lets the innovative drinks take center stage.
The bartenders’ creative process is displayed on brown paper menus hung on the walls, showing their experimental approach to mixology.
Old Mate’s Place
Four flights of stairs lead to this rooftop bar hidden within a CBD office building. The interior feels like an old library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves and vintage furniture, while the outdoor terrace offers stunning city views.
The menu combines classic cocktails with creative concoctions that change seasonally, including their famous Philly cheesesteak sandwiches.
Earls Juke Joint
Behind the facade of an old butcher shop in Newtown lies this New Orleans-inspired bar, complete with blues music and southern hospitality. The original ‘Betta Meats’ signage remains outside, while inside, you’ll find one of Sydney’s best selections of bourbon and American whiskey.
The bar team crafts exceptional cocktails while maintaining a casual, welcoming atmosphere that makes regulars out of first-time visitors.
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The Barber Shop
A functioning barbershop at the front conceals one of Sydney’s finest gin bars at the back. The extensive gin collection includes rare and vintage bottles from around the world, with knowledgeable bartenders offering guided tastings and education.
The Victorian-era decor creates a perfect setting for exploring traditional gin cocktails and contemporary creations.
Papa Gede’s Bar
Hidden down a Kent Street alley, this voodoo-themed bar offers an eccentric experience complete with skeleton decorations and authentic New Orleans cocktails. The intimate space features quirky artwork and authentic ritual objects that create an immersive atmosphere.
The house specialty zombie cocktail comes with strict limits per customer due to its potent rum blend.
Ramblin’ Rascal Tavern
Behind an unmarked door marked only by three skulls, this basement bar serves up unpretentious fun with serious drinks. The bar team’s motto of ‘fancy drinks without the fancy’ perfectly captures their approach to high-quality cocktails in a relaxed setting.
The cognac selection is particularly impressive, with rare bottles available at surprisingly reasonable prices.
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PS40
This experimental bar doubles as a soda factory, creating unique mixers and non-alcoholic beverages used in their innovative cocktails. The minimalist space features industrial design elements that reflect their scientific approach to drink making.
The menu regularly features collaborations with local chefs and artisans, creating unique flavor combinations you won’t find elsewhere.
Since I Left You
Housed in a heritage-listed storehouse, this small bar features a hidden courtyard perfect for warm Sydney nights. The cocktail menu draws inspiration from different historical eras, with drinks named after significant events and cultural movements.
The intimate indoor space hosts regular jazz performances that complement the vintage atmosphere.
Webster’s Bar
Located above a Korean restaurant in Newtown, this whiskey bar offers one of Sydney’s most extensive collections of Japanese spirits. The dark wooden interior creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for exploring their impressive selection of rare Japanese whiskeys and sakes.
The rooftop area provides a contrasting bright space for enjoying their Asian-inspired cocktails.
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The Wild Rover
Behind an unassuming green door lies this three-story Irish-inspired bar known for its extensive whiskey collection and warm hospitality. The pressed tin ceiling and vintage decor create an authentic pub atmosphere without falling into cliché territory.
The house specialty ‘Rover’s Penicillin’ combines smoky whiskey with honey-ginger syrup and fresh lemon juice.
Mjølner
This Viking-themed bar serves cocktails in horns and features a restaurant where you select your own hunting knife for the meal. The underground space combines medieval aesthetics with modern cocktail crafting techniques.
The extensive whiskey selection is presented in a unique format where you can choose your own vessel from their collection of horns and chalices.
Cantina OK!
Housed in a former garage barely big enough for 20 people, this Mexican-inspired micro-bar specializes in rare mezcal and tequila. The tiny space features standing room only, with guests squeezing in to sample some of Sydney’s best margaritas made with hand-crushed ice.
The constantly rotating selection of agave spirits includes bottles you won’t find anywhere else in Australia.
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Button Bar
Hidden in a Surry Hills terrace, this pirate-themed bar combines quirky decor with serious cocktail credentials. The rum-heavy menu features both classic tiki drinks and creative modern interpretations.
The intimate space fills up quickly on weekends as locals come for their famous spiced rum, old-fashioned, and house-made ginger beer.
Uncovering Sydney’s Secret Bars
These hidden bars represent Sydney’s most creative and innovative drinking establishments, each offering a unique experience that goes beyond just serving drinks. Whether you’re seeking rare spirits, innovative cocktails, or simply a memorable night out, these secret spots provide an alternative to the city’s mainstream bar scene.
Remember to check their social media pages for current opening hours and entry instructions, as part of the fun is in the finding.
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