Recently one of our clients asked us, “Where should we go for after-work drinks in the Sydney CBD with a client?”
Naturally, we had a few favourites in mind.
Whether you’re entertaining clients, celebrating a successful deal, catching up with colleagues or simply looking for somewhere to unwind, these are the bars we return to time and time again.
From elegant cocktail lounges to lively wine bars and hidden gems, consider this your insider’s guide to Sydney CBD’s best places for a drink this winter
Our go-to recommendation.
Sophisticated without feeling formal, The Charles is one of the CBD’s best spots for client drinks. Expect beautifully crafted cocktails, an impressive wine list and European-inspired interiors that work just as well for a quick aperitif as they do for a long afternoon that turns into dinner.
For cocktails with a view.
Perched above the CBD, Dean & Nancy feels effortlessly luxurious. Floor-to-ceiling views, impeccable service and beautifully balanced cocktails make it ideal when you want to impress without trying too hard.
New York energy meets Sydney.
One of the city’s best cocktail bars, Employees Only delivers exceptional drinks, late-night atmosphere and polished hospitality. It’s lively without being overwhelming and always delivers.
Dark, intimate and undeniably cool.
Inspired by classic Italian cocktail culture, Apollonia is tucked beneath Circular Quay and feels like a well-kept secret. Moody lighting, exceptional martinis and refined service.
For the cocktail enthusiast.
A hidden whisky and cocktail bar that consistently ranks among Sydney’s best. Every drink is thoughtfully crafted, making it ideal when you’re after something memorable.
Escape to the Caribbean.
Rum-focused cocktails, warm lighting and a hidden basement location create a fun alternative to the traditional CBD bar.
A hidden speakeasy.
Door Knock is a hidden underground cocktail and wine bar in Sydney’s CBD, located beneath Pitt Street near Martin Place. Known for its speakeasy-style entrance and intimate atmosphere, it combines creative drinks with shareable food in a relaxed, tucked-away setting.
Bar Tilda
An elegant CBD escape.
Located within the beautifully restored Sofitel Sydney Wentworth, Bar Tilda celebrates contemporary Australian flavours through refined cocktails, premium local wines and warm hospitality. A timeless setting for everything from after-work drinks to client entertaining.
AALIA Wine Room
A hidden sanctuary for wine lovers.
Tucked beneath AALIA Restaurant, the Wine Room offers an intimate setting with an exceptional wine list and carefully crafted cocktails. Its understated luxury makes it ideal for meaningful conversations over a great glass of wine.
Joji
Rooftop drinks with a Japanese twist.
High above the CBD, Joji pairs sweeping city views with Japanese-inspired cocktails, premium sake and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s one of our favourite spots to watch the sun set over Sydney.
Bar Folio
A hidden theatre-inspired gem.
Nestled within the Roslyn Packer Theatre, Folio Bar offers an intimate setting with classic cocktails, quality wines and a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re heading to a show or simply looking for somewhere a little different, it’s a bar worth discovering.
