A guide to Sydney’s best bars

Sydney's not shy on quirky, happening bars. No matter your liquor of choice, there's a kitschy, underground locale that'll serve it up to your heart's content. We've put together a list of some of the city's very best, all within half an hour's walk of your accommodation. Don't go spreading the word around though, because the locals want to keep these all to themselves!

Lobo Plantation – Clarence Street, CBD

This funky bar has a selection of more than 250 local and international rums, with some delicious homemade South American and Caribbean-style dishes to add a little flavour. The Latin theme is also emphasised in the interior decor; menus and walls are adorned with new world-era maps and photographs of colonial buildings.

Jangling Jack's – Victoria Street, Potts Point

"We wanted it to feel like it's always been here and you just unearthed it", owner Orlan Erin Raleigh said about Jangling Jack's to Broadsheet Sydney.

This one might just turn into your local when you stay at The Macleay Hotel – Jangling Jack's is only an eight-minute walk down the road. It's got a cosy, comfortable vibe that probably stems from the vintage posters and album art that adorn the walls. The Victorian-style green lampshades project an intimate atmosphere that will make you feel right at home.

Grandma's – Clarence Street, CBD

Grandma's website describes it as a "retro-sexual haven of cosmopolitan kitsch and faded granny glamour", and we really don't think they could have described this place any better! The cocktail menu is rum-heavy and Polynesian-inspired. Your grandma would remind you not to drink on an empty stomach, so when you get a bit peckish you can order some tasty jaffles (toasted sandwiches) to munch on.

Eau de vie – Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst

This bar is just a 15-minute walk from The Macleay Hotel and boasts an impressive range of whisky from Scotland, America and other places around the world. You must check out their extensive cocktail menu, which allows you to experiment by crafting your very own concoction.

Mrs Sippy – Bay Street, Double Bay

Mrs Sippy is more of a high-end establishment, so if you're looking for a grungy, underground place where you can wear whatever you like this isn't the place to go. But it's definitely worth a visit. The dance floor gets going if you're up for getting your groove on after a couple of cocktails. Get to this place early in the day to enjoy the sunshine out in the lovely courtyard before moving indoors. 

The Wild Rover – Campbell Street, Surry Hills

This Irish whisky bar is a must-visit on a night out in the inner city. The owners of this lively watering hole are the very same people who established Grandma's, and this joint includes a rotating craft beer list, cocktails and a selection of over 200 whisky varieties.

Frankie's Pizza – Hunter Street, CBD

Old school rock 'n' roll tunes, NYC-style pizza and darn good frozen margaritas combine to give birth to the unique atmosphere that is Frankie's Pizza. This is where Sydney locals congregate for late-night eats and heavy beats. Frankie's is a place you can enjoy on any night; there'll be karaoke, live bands or DJs every weeknight until 3 a.m.

Sydney's best bars are just a stroll or short commute away when you're staying centrally at The Macleay Hotel in Potts Point. Book your accommodation with us and get ready to explore Sydney's nightlife.