Sydney’s Growing Small Bar Scene

By Ben Stephens…

The Sydney small bar scene is getting ridiculous; eccentric fit outs, rooftop hideaways and loading dock introductions. With the small bar movement spreading, we thought we’d go around sitting and sipping in various establishments… all in the name of research. After all this research we were able to create a list. Please you can spend the night catching up on conversations while you wrap your lips around some delicious concoctions. By no way does this list cover all the scrumptious beverages being served in the CBD, but it’s a start:

Ramblin’ Rascal:

On the corner of Elizabeth and Park Street, follow the stairs down to one of Sydney’s best dive bars, where you’re encouraged to “drink like a champion”. The team behind the bar can whip up a fine cocktail, ask what’s good and see what you get. That’s how you live on the edge and what being a rascal is all about, right? If you are feeling hungry, you are in good hands. The team will run around the corner and grab you burgers from Marys. So order a beer, take a shot and jump into one of the leather booths to drink away the trauma of another busy day in the thirsty rat race.

Shady Pines Saloon:

A small walk from the CBD, look for the line that appears on Foley Street in Darlinghurst, everyone in that line knows what’s good. Shady is full of whiskey, peanuts and stuffed animals,. Start off with a whiskey and apple, then move onto something minty or just something heavier, like a shot of Jack. The team at the bar will always be there to help you with any of your choices, or another bowl of peanuts.

Stitch:

Stitch is like going to see an old friend. A really good friend that serves tacos, beers and some of the friendliest cocktails in the city. Take a seat at the bar, check out the menu on the blackboard and tell the crew what your tastebuds are in need of… Or grab a table at the back, hidden away from prying eyes and get to know your date.

The Lobo Plantation:

Rum, wicker lounges and a hilarious bar team. Lobo will have you feeling like you have left the state’s capital for the shores of San Juan and feeling like Hunter S. Thompson in no time. The flames at the bar are captivating, order an Old Grogram to see raging fires or a personal favourite, grab a Fizzy Bubbler, not only for the flavour profile, mainly for the little duck that comes with it.

Gilt Lounge:

Tucked above Gowings Bar & Grill, you’ll find a hidden gem in Gilt Lounge. The team behind the bar are mixing some fresh cocktails with the release of a new list of creations. Mix this with old school class and charm and Gilt has ahold you for the night. Order a Lady Gowings and perch yourself on a lounge for the night, the music won’t disappoint and you never know who you will see up there.

Grandma’s Bar:
This feels like Grandma’s in every sense, from the nostalgic smell of mothballs to the feel of velvet the lounges. This would actually be my Grandma’s if only my mother’s mother were a top moonshiner, alas she’s not, but the team behind the bar are. They do to an epic ‘Dark ’n’ Stormy’ that Grandma would easily approve… while ordering a cheeky gin and tonic.

Image: The Lobo Plantation Facebook