There’s hardly anything better than enjoying a cheeky bevvy outdoors, preferably atop the usual hustle and bustle. While Sydney’s got a good number of rooftop bars, unfortunately, only a few grant views of the gloriousness that should be the Australian capital (snap!). And because we know the struggle is real, we’ve compiled a list of five watering holes that take drinking to all new heights (see what we did there?)
The Glenmore
An oldie but a goodie. The three-level Glenmore Hotel, located in the heart of the historic Rocks district, features a lengthy cocktail menu perfectly paired with contemporary Aussie food.
Views: Sydney and the Opera House.
Great for: Friday night drinks, welcoming friends and family to the city
96 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Coogee Pavilion
No expense has been spared to turn this beach-vibing eatery and ‘waterhole’ into Coogee’s next big hotspot. Note, the rooftop bar is certainly more adults-only than the family-friendly eatery downstairs.
Views: Coogee Beach
Great for: A hot date, all-round weekend shenanigans
169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034
Henry Deane at Hotel Palisade
The classiest spot in town, Henry Deane has killer views and an even more, erm killer, cocktail menu. TBH, we’d totally hang there without the incredible drinks list (like legit, even if water was the only thing on the menu, it’d still rate in our eyes).
Views: Sydney from every angle
Great for: A romantic date, showing-off Sydney to visitors, sophisticated drinks with colleagues
35 Bettington St, Millers Point NSW 2000
The Royal Hotel
The intimate, 40-seater rooftop bar is particularly beautiful late in the afternoon, when the sun sets. To complete the experience, grab a delicious cocktail from Elephant Bar on the level below – place got some serious mixology game.
Views: Paddington and city skyline
Great for: A romantic date, after-work drinks, a chill Sunday sesh
237 Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021
Hotel Sweeneys
Tbh, it’s not the most glam place, but its rooftop bar is right up there with the city’s best (and the pub’s vibe is pretty chill, so we love). If you’re into beer, you’ll want to try their tasting paddles, available only up top.
Views: Skyscrapers
Great for: A sneaky afternoon drink, an relaxed evening with friends
236 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000