Although the drinking scene has stifled by lock out laws, Sydney does have plenty of choice when it comes to quality bars. Despite the fact they haven’t been able to stay open til the crazy hours, these bars we’ve highlighted are those you visit for a quality cocktail or whisky and a sophisticated evening. There’s so many places we love, but these are our ‘best of’ for 2019.

Let’s start with cocktails. Maybe Sammy in Sydney’s The Rocks is a great cocktail bar and you are guaranteed to have a great time. The coffee cocktails here are a highlight. No wonder it made Timeout’s best 50 of 2019 too, as well as best International Cocktail Bar.

We were also introduced to Jackalberry this year. Located inside the Hyatt Regency, they also offer some great cocktails with flavours from around the world. Their lemon meringue pie was the pick of the night and an absolute must order. Zephyr in the Hyatt is also outstanding. What a view!

Hacienda in the Pullman Sydney reopened as Hyde Hacienda and boy did they throw a party to celebrate. A great vantage point over Sydney Harbour, a premium drinks list and DJ sets.

Old Mate’s Place in the heart of Sydney city has a quaint roof top bar and the mid level is a library type whisky bar, with an extensive list. Mjolner is also pretty cool, for its drink list is extensive, and even come in Nordic vessels.

Archie Rose in Rosebery is a distillery with a bar attached, they have an extensive drinks list and offer a range of experiences, including distillery tours and whisky blending sessions.

Websters in Newtown is a great place to learn about your booze and they do it through food pairings. Great value and a great night out.

Stockade Brew Co in Marrickville is our pick of the Breweries, this mainly due to the quality beer they pump out.

For wine, try Poly in Surry Hills. And for a simply stunning venue, view and beautiful cocktails, you can’t go past Hotel Palisade or Bennelong in the Sydney Opera House.

Hotel Palisade

Bennelong

Do yourself a favour and head out for a drink or two at one of these amazing places.