There’s no better place to spend a summer’s day than one of the most epic rooftop bars in Sydney, especially if you’ve spent a long winter in lockdown.
After all, where else can you experience jaw-dropping views, open air and feel the sun’s rays breathe life into your Vitamin D-deficient skin?
Discover the Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney
While our underground bars and hidden cocktail corners have their place, on a beautiful day, Sydney’s rooftop bars offer a glorious way to indulge in a delicious cocktail or sip on a cold one under the sun.
So, which are the best rooftop bars in Sydney? Keep reading to find out!
1. Old Mate’s Place
Hidden in plain sight is Old Mate’s Place, a cosy bar right in the middle of the city with a sun-drenched rooftop bar. The perfect place for a Friday afternoon, be sure to leave work early to score a spot sipping a drink as the sun goes down, as this hidden gem isn’t a large venue.
2. East Village Pub
You’ll have to climb a few sets of stairs to reach East Village Hotel in Darlinghurst, but the climb is well worth it and will help you burn off your first drink, anyway. Once there, you can enjoy the view from underneath beach-style umbrellas sipping champagne. Once you’ve had enough sun, there is always ample space in the trendy Athletic Club bar below.
3. Glenmore Hotel
If you’re looking for views, the heritage-listed Glenmore Hotel in The Rocks won’t disappoint. Head straight to the rooftop terrace for sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. The Glenmore is easily one of the best and most centrally-located rooftop bars in Sydney.
4. Henry Deane
If you’re feeling a little bit fancy, try Henry Deane in Millers Point. Located on the top of the Hotel Palisade, Henry Dean is the perfect indulgent venue for a lush birthday celebration or the New Years’ Eve fireworks to allow you to fully appreciate the stunning views and Instagram-worthy décor. Just be sure to book ahead, as this is a small venue that is very much in demand!
5. Slim’s Rooftop
Located in Hyde Park House, Darlinghurst, Slim’s Rooftop is one of the prettiest rooftop bars in Sydney. This mid-city oasis features a background of lush greenery alongside colourful cocktails and pretty pink umbrellas. Enjoy a glimpse of the city views over the low walls or sample the delicious menu which features a range of fresh sashimi, oysters and other small bites.
6. The Royal Hotel
The Royal Hotel in Paddington has been an institution for the Paddo locals for many years, but the rooftop bar is a recent revelation. Renovated just last year, this pretty Hamptons-style spot is the perfect place for a cheeky rosé (or three). With epic views of the Sydney CBD, city bays and harbour, this is a great sunset spot; just be sure to secure a place early!
7. Coogee Pavilion
If you’re looking for rooftop bars in Sydney with space enough for all your friends, Coogee Pavilion will come to your rescue. Just a stone’s throw from the city, it contains an enormous rooftop bar with uninterrupted views of the coast. Featuring a tasty menu of Mediterranean delights, this is the perfect place to grab a bite, work on your tan for the day or enjoy catching up with friends and family.
8. The Fernery
The Fernery is Mosman’s worst kept secret. True to its name, this is a lush, greenhouse-inspired venue. It offers expansive views of the harbour, Harbour Bridge, and the Opera House. It even has its own rosé bar and a wide range of cocktails with herbs straight from The Fernery’s rooftop herb garden!
9. Babylon Rooftop & Garden Bar
Babylon Rooftop has to be one of the largest rooftop bars in Sydney, at over 1200 square metres. Experience a smorgasbord of Mediterranean dishes with the tapas-style bar menu or the more expansive restaurant menu. This rooftop bar and restaurant is a luxurious, glittering mid-city delight, furnished in style. It’s the perfect spot for a mid-week dinner or a weekend day-drinking session accompanied by some tasty tapas.
What are your favourite rooftop bars in Sydney? To discover what else our beautiful harbourside city has to offer, contact us for more information or browse our other local insights blogs to learn more.
