If you’re returning to the office in the city centre after working from home, you might be looking for some new places to go when you clock off.
We asked our Instagram followers to share their favourite bars and pubs they head to when they’re in need of an after-work cocktail and catch-up. Here’s what they told us.
Palmer & Co
“It has the best Reuben Sandwich and a great speakeasy vibe” said @mattgurr
This classy 1920s-themed cocktail bar is hidden underground. The prohibition-style bar is known for the cocktails, atmosphere, dapper staff and live music.
Untied
4/400 Barangaroo Avenue
Barangaroo
“Great spot in Barangaroo with a rooftop terrace” said @oli_gal
Expect tropical vibes at this rooftop oasis in Barangaroo. Inventive cocktails through summer and mulled wine and cider in winter.
The Doss House
“It has a cosy vibe, live music and friendly staff!” said @funbobbyarnold
If you fancy a whisky after work, head to this intimate heritage bar. Its vintage interior will make you feel like you’ve been transported back to another time.
Employees Only
“They do some great cocktails and the vibe is so chill and classy” said @itsntr
Let go of your working day with burlesque dancers and psychic readers at this basement hub. On the menu you’ll find all the cocktail classics, fancy specials and beer and wine too.
Above Par
“Their Turkish food is the best!” said sydneystriowski
Middle Eastern-inspired cocktails, Turkish food and a beautiful cherry blossom tree. This vibrant indoor and outdoor space has live DJs on Thursday and Friday evenings.
Babylon
“For an espresso martini after a long days editing,” said @eye_capture_it
“Great space and live music,” said @cee_wee
A rooftop bar covered with lush greenery right in the middle of the city. Inspired by one of the 7 wonders of the ancient world, you can feast on Turkish food and sip on alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails.
The Lobo Plantation
“Great team, great vibes and great cocktails - it’s always a good time at the Lobo,” said @estellemarianne
Bringing a bit of the Caribbean to the heart of the city with a handpicked collection of over 250 rums and live music every Wednesday.
Bopp and Tone
“For happy hour prosecco!” said @shelliewatchesthestars
If your commute home starts at Wynyard station, this is the perfect place to stop for a quick one. The luxury space is inspired by the nostalgic and optimistic post-World War II era.
Paragon Hotel
“Nice atmosphere and vibe,” said @mima_r
Down at Circular Quay, this pub has a ground-floor sports bar and an open-air garden bar upstairs.
Bar Totti’s
Shop 4/330, George Street
Sydney
“Feels like a weekend escape,” said @kateporterdesign
Find this Italian-inspired bar and restaurant within the Ivy precinct serving house-made antipasti and cocktails.
Matteo Downtown
“Great pizza and great décor! Also close to Wynyard for the B-line home,” said @emilyka611
With a section dedicated to negronis and a menu inspired by all things Italian, this bar is a pure slice of Italy just around the corner from Australia Square.
Matteo Downtown is temporarily closed, but the team are working hard to open again soon.
Ship Inn
“Perfect spot for a drink prior to catching the Manly ferry home,” said @jubersax
Get to this Circular Quay pub after work on a Wednesday for a happy-hour bargain, with cocktails at just $17.
Kittyhawk
“Feels a world away in a past era with fab design and delicious cocktails” said @thesuzelife
This French restaurant and bar is designed around the 1944 liberation of Paris. It has an old-world charm, amazing cocktails and great food.
The Library Bar
In December 2021, the State Library of NSW opened a new bar on the rooftop of the historic Mitchell Building. If you're after phenomenal views, a classy and intimate outdoor setting, as well as a drinks menu using mostly local ingredients, check out the Library Bar.
Published 27 April 2021, updated 8 August 2023
