In December 2011 I went to Australia for a month’s holiday, which bizarrely turned into a two year working holiday (I just couldn’t bring myself to leave so soon).
The majority of the time that I lived in Australia was spent in Sydney, and in that time I got to know the city – and the bars – pretty well. These watering holes were some of my favourite places to hang out, so if you ever find yourself in this corner of the globe I recommend you visit a few of them.
- The Glenmore Hotel, The Rocks. Grab a table on the roof because it has fabulous views of the harbour, the bridge and the opera house. Go on Mondays to get a delicious steak (typically Australian) for $12.
- The Baxter Inn, Sydney CBD. This unmarked American-style whisky bar has a great vintage feel to it. If you are overwhelmed by the range of drinks on offer, I recommend you go for a whisky and fresh apple juice. This bar also has unlimited free pretzels… love it!
- Manly Wharf Hotel, Manly. Because who doesn’t want to sit and watch ferries while sipping your drinks?
- 4 Pines, Manly. If beer is your drink of choice you will love this micro brewery bar. My favourite was the pale ale.
- Opera Bar, Circular Quay. For those that are only in Sydney for a short time this is definitely one to tick off your list, pick a table outside and take in the harbour views.
- Frankie’s Pizza, Sydney CBD. A pizza restaurant come dive bar. I loved being able to order pizza by the slice and pinball machines are always a winner.
- The Beresford Hotel, Darlinghurst. A big, lively hotel (in Australia pubs are generally called hotels), with a great garden.
- Bucket List, Bondi. As well as having a great name this bar has a great location, as it is right on Bondi beach, perfect for watching the surfers while you are enjoying a cheeky cocktail.
- The Winery, Surry Hills. This was probably my favourite bar in Sydney because it is just so pretty! My friends and I would spend afternoons here in the leafy garden sipping wine, sitting on the white iron garden furniture and feeling like we were in a real vineyard.
- The Dock, Redfern. This is one of those bars that made me feel like one of the cool kids. It isn’t a flashy bar at all, but has a hipster crowd and an array of fun cocktails on the blackboard.