12 TOP SPOTS FOR DRINKS WITH A VIEW IN SYDNEY
It’s no secret that of all the cities in the world, Sydney shows off with some of the greatest views going. And what better way to enjoy those views than with a sensational drink in hand? Here’s our pick of top places to do just that.
There are plenty of ways you can enjoy the myriad spectacular sights – particularly those of our sparkling harbour – although perhaps none better than kicking back with a refreshing beverage in hand as you gaze out and admire the vista.
If you’re looking for an exceptional spot to immerse yourself in Sydney’s spectacular scenes – from sails on sun-dappled bodies of water to sensational sunsets – while you wet your whistle, then look no further.
In no particular order, here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Sydney for drinks with a view – most of which are within easy walking distance of our hotel.
(Credit: Bar 83 Sydney Tower)
1: Bar 83 Sydney Tower
How can we start anywhere else but with Sydney’s highest bar? Sat atop the iconic Sydney Tower, the striking Bar 83 is an elevated spot for drinks with a view at 83 floors above street level. Lounge on the plush bright red sofas and soak in the 260-degree view of Sydney from up high while surrounded by memorable retro decor and soaring floor-to-ceiling windows. Delectable bar bites and bold specialty cocktails are combined with great table service to see you sipping in style.
Drink recommendation: Bonilla’s Comet cocktail made with Los Vecinios ‘Espadin’ Mezcal, chilli liqueur, lime, Sofi Aperitivo, watermelon, agave.
(Credit: Henry Deane, Hotel Palisade)
2: Henry Deane
Welcome to the crown jewel of the historic Hotel Palisade. Spread across two levels, Henry Deane offers uninterrupted views of Sydney’s cityscape at all angles. This cocktail lounge is decked out in pinkish hues and the menu is spearheaded by Head Chef Cian Mulholland with dishes designed to be shared. With one of the clearest views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge, here you can take a breath and enjoy the bustling and beautiful scenes of the surrounding harbour.
Drink recommendation: A glass of Fizzy Wine with tanqueray blackcurrant royale gin, chardonnay, citrus.
(Credit: Untied [Matterport])
3: Untied
Young, fun and bright, just like you! Untied is a tropical oasis with a plethora of drink options to enjoy as you peer out over the waters of Darling Harbour, right in the heart of dining precinct Barangaroo. Enjoy tropical cocktails, share-style plates and plenty of plant-based options, to a soundtrack of buzzing tunes in this modern bar inspired by Australia’s lush tropical rainforests.
Drink recommendation: A frosty schooner of Pirate Life South Coast Pale Ale on tap.
(Credit: O Bar & Dining)
4: O Bar & Dining
If you’re feeling fine and a bit fancy, Sydney’s only revolving bar has your name on it. Lounge Bar at O Bar & Dining serves up spectacular 360 degree panoramic views of the city skyline and harbour, set 47 floors above the city. Here you can sample the collection of 400+ carefully selected spirits and an impressive list of expertly crafted cocktails. Attentive table service adds an extra layer of sophistication to this opulent bar which boasts beautiful views day and night.
Drink recommendation: 24K Bling Espresso Martini made with 24 karat gold praline, Patrón XO Cafe, Mr Black Coffee Liqueur, salted caramel, 100% arabica coffee.
(Credit: Opera Bar Sydney)
5: Opera Bar Sydney
A staple on any Sydney itinerary, how could we omit this one from the list? Grab a drink at quintessential Sydney hotspot, Opera Bar tucked in underneath Sydney Opera House overlooking the harbour and ferries of Circular Quay across to the ever-spectacular Sydney Harbour Bridge. Mostly outdoors, this bar encompasses the true spirit of Sydney, with a sunny disposition and plenty of seats in the open air. Take a bite of something light and local, or sip on spritzy cocktails, crisp pale ales and pure Aussie wines. Just beware of the swooping seagulls who might try to steal your chips!
Drink recommendation: The ‘SYDNEY SLING’ signature cocktail made with Archie Rose dry gin, White Possum maraschino, citrus, bitters, soda
(Credit: Barangaroo House)
6: Smoke Bar (Barangaroo House)
Chic and sultry, indoor-outdoor Smoke Bar atop distinct Barangaroo House will woo you with its sunset and water views across Darling Harbour. Pair dreamy skies with their list of trendy tipples from up high on this super stylish rooftop that emanates the bar scenes of Los Angeles and New York. Head Sommelier, Georgina Larsson has hand-picked a worldly wine list with an emphasis on Champagnes for all occasions. Settle in to your seat and stay for the unmistakable sights of our famous harbour.
Drink recommendation: The Above The Clouds cocktail made with Wild Turkey bourbon, St Germain liqueur, apricot, cinnamon, citrus
(Credit: Café del Mar, Cockle Bay Wharf)
7: Café del Mar
Sensational sunny day drinking vibes on the rooftop terrace of Café del Mar will zip you straight to the Spanish Isle of Ibiza, without leaving Sydney’s Darling Harbour. Relax in stylish interiors reminiscent of a European summer holiday house, while choosing from a comprehensive drinks list complemented by Mediterranean dishes, inspired by Spanish flair, French sophistication and Italian depth.
Drink recommendation: The ‘Italian Sailor’ signature cocktail made with Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Amaretto Disaronno liquor, pineapple juice, lemon juice and egg white.
(Credit: Bar Ombré Rooftop )
8: Bar Ombré Rooftop
The party starts early at Bar Ombré, a lively rooftop lounge in Circular Quay delivering spritzes and sours in a colourful setting, with uninterrupted vistas of the bustling harbour. Order up excellent and creative cocktails and enjoy live music and tunes by the bar. A fun place to start the night… or day.
Drink recommendation: An Ombré Spritz made with Absolut Citron, limoncello, cranberry juice, prosecco and soda.
(Credit: Leigh Griffiths, Zebra Lounge)
9: Zebra Lounge
One of Pyrmont’s local gems, this casual cafe and bar sits on the waterfront at lush green Pirrama Park, just a short 10 minute stroll from the hotel. A great choice for breakfast with a cheeky mimosa or a long, leisurely lunch, Zebra Lounge gives you harbourside dining without the tourist trap vibes. A local’s favourite, you will find plenty of wines, beers and cider to sip and savour here.
Drink recommendation: A bottle of Shiraz Nova Vita 2019 (Adelaide Hills, SA).
Credit: Steven Woodburn, Martinez Rooftop
10: Martinez
An all-in-one restaurant, terrace and bar, find Sydney CBD’s most colourful rooftop oasis, Martinez in Quay Quarter. One of the chillest bars in Circular Quay, here you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy world class views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge from a vibrant wrap-around rooftop. Their mighty drinks list includes cocktails of the riviera, local and international lagers, organic and biodynamic wines and an entire page dedicated to magnums. And if you’re feeling hungry, head inside their luxurious dining room, inspired by Southern France and enjoy the charming burgundy interiors and delicious Mediterranean seafood and share plates.
Drink recommendation: A glass of French wine, like the 2021 Rameau D’Or Rosé ‘Petit Amour’
Credit: State Library of New South Wales
11: The Library Bar
A hidden gem where you’d least expect it, The Library Bar is set within the oldest library in Australia, the State Library of NSW, as a spectacularly spacious drinks spot boasting expansive 360-degree views of the city of Sydney. Complete with a grand piano, cosy indoor seating and a large outdoor open-air rooftop, the bar brings together the best of New South Wales bounty with a menu representing the state’s finest distillers, wineries and breweries. It’s the perfect place for views of Sydney Harbour, the Botanic Gardens and also the sublime skyline during sunset.
Drink recommendation: Gospel Solera Rye on the rocks, via Australia’s only dedicated rye whiskey distillery in South Australia.
Credit: Cabana Bar
12: Cabana Bar
Be transported to a tropical haven where the drinks are flowing and the vibes are soothing. The resort-style beach club atmosphere of Cabana Bar at 25 Martin Place is the perfect retreat for day drinking with a view. One of Sydney’s largest open-air terrace bars, it offers excellent people watching, while sun soaking and sipping on sundowners. Enjoy an array of classic poolside cocktails and moreish bites with a wide view of Sydney’s cityscape from up high.
Drink recommendation: Piña Colada with Malibu Coconut Liqueur, Pampero Blanco Rum, Pineapple and Coconut Cream.
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Have we missed your favourite spot with a view? Tell us the place you love most by sharing with us on social media tagging #aidendarlingharbour or emailing us at hello@aidendarlingharbour.com.au
For more inspiration on our destination, visit the Neighbourhood section of our website here.