There’s no denying that Sydney has an impressive lineup of venues on offer. From quirky restaurants to some of the best fine dining destinations.
However, we’re home to some of the best rooftop bars in the world, all overlooking the city skyline. Whether that be front-row views of Sydney Harbour, a touch away from the Queen Victoria Building or tucked away in hidden nooks – explore, indulge and sip your way through our list of the 10 best rooftop bars in Sydney of 2023!
Photographed by Steven Woodburn. Image supplied.
Babylon Rooftop
Described as an Aladdin’s cave for adults, Babylon sits graciously on top of the bustling Westfield Pitt Street. But forget designer bags, homewares and apparel, because visitors will be transported to a bazaar of fine food and drinks. Stocking 400 international and Australian spirits, a 250+ whisky list and over 300 bottles of wine, you’ll definitely be spoilt for choice at Babylon Rooftop. To pair with their exotic drinks list, Babylon boasts a mouthwatering food menu that features the likes of Spiced Fried Cauliflower, Saikou Salmon and 12hr Braised Lamb Neck Soup to name a few.
Photographed by Kitti Gould. Image supplied.
Bar Ombré Rooftop
Opening their doors in May 2019, Bar Ombré is presented by one of Australia’s favourite Italian restaurant groups, Salt Meats Cheese. Found on the rooftop of the Circular Quay venue, Bar Ombré is adorned with an eclectic mix of deck chairs shrouded with hanging palms and lively greenery to create a laid-back, intimate experience – all the reason why they’re titled as one of the best bars in Sydney. As for the menus, guests can expect nothing short of exceptional thanks to the refreshing mix of antipasti, wood-fired pizzas and, not to forget, their impressive drinks list. Saluti!
Photographed by Daniel Boud. Image via Destination NSW.
Henry Deane
Looking for a stunning rooftop bar in Sydney with the best views of Sydney Harbour? Look no further than Henry Deane. With undisturbed views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the surrounding mesmerising city skyline, Henry Deane is located inside the Hotel Palisade. Here, visitors will be welcomed to the enclosed rooftop space featuring an extended open-air verandah. Or, if you wish to take the party inside, guests will still have the best seat in the house with Henry Deane’s floor-to-ceiling windows. One of the best cocktail bars Sydney has to offer!
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Old Mate’s Place
Led by Gabrielle Walters (Black by Ezard) and Daniel Noble (Mojo Record Bar), Old Mate’s Place is an intimate rooftop bar hiding in Sydney’s heart. After making your way up the four flights of stairs, guests will be greeted by a mysteriously styled interior embellished with pendulum lighting, leather booths and lush greenery. Then, heading up another set of stairs (it’s worth it, trust us), visitors will open the door to a small rooftop area where they’ll be treated to 360-degree views of Sydney’s surrounding skyline – Sydney Tower Eye will seem like a touch away. Old Mate’s Place’s menu is short, sweet and nothing short of the best – one worth visiting in 2023!
Photographed by Jasper Avenue. Image supplied.
The Rook
Inside the enclosed rooftop space in Sydney’s CBD, Sydneysiders will find The Rook – the ultimate rooftop destination year-round. Adorned with marble accentuated bar tabletops, wrap-around windows and hanging rattan egg chairs, The Rook is perfect for Monday to Sunday festivities – whether that be after-work drinks, weekend catchups and everything in between. Their food and drink menu is delightfully addictive too, with exquisite creations taking centre-stage. Come for a drink and stay for a good time as one of the best rooftop bars in Sydney!
Photographed by Dallas Kilponen. Image via Destination NSW.
Slims Rooftop
Sydney, if you’re looking to brighten up your food and drink travels, look no further than Slims Rooftop. Nestled high above Hyde Park House, Slims praises good weather, fine cocktails and a delectable range of mains to feast on. Featuring checkered floor tiles, giant succulents that encase the venue and blossoming pastel-coloured beach umbrellas for shelter, there’s no doubt that Slims Rooftop creates an intricate, bewitching atmosphere that praises the warmer months. As for the food, Slims serves up izakaya-style dishes which are just as colourful as the venue. One of the best rooftop bars in Sydney!
Photographed by Alana Dimou. Image supplied.
Smoke Bar
Led by Australian super chef and restaurateur Matt Moran, the waterside venue, Smoke Bar, sits elegantly atop of Barangaroo House in the heart of Sydney’s newest drinking and dining precinct. Overlooking Darling Harbour, Barangaroo’s best rooftop bar, Smoke, encapsulates everything Matt Moran is renowned for all under the one open-air rooftop. With unsurpassed harbour views, table service and delectable eats, Smoke is best enjoyed both day and night thanks to their scrumptious classy cocktails and an exceptionally creative bar menu. Thank us later.
Image supplied.
SoCal Sydney
Over the bridge and less than 15 minutes north of Sydney’s CBD, lovers of tacos, tequila and everything in between will fall in love with Neutral Bay’s SoCal. Founded by Applejack Hospitality’s Hamish Watts and Ben Carroll, SoCal draws heavy inspiration from America’s sunny state of California – so expect a laid-back, southern vibe and theme throughout. Their rooftop space is filled with an array of succulents and cacti, pastel decor, hanging greenery and a range of vibrant eats including meats from their smokehouse, exotic taco fillings, fresh salads, raw fish dishes and even Churros for those who can squeeze dessert in. As for tipples, SoCal features an impressive tequila menu that will surely get you talking.
Image supplied.
Untied
Operated by Australian Venue Co. and inspired by the lush rainforests of north Queensland, Untied is one of the best rooftop bars in Barangaroo. Just a touch away from Wulugul Walk, Untied is described as a rooftop oasis featuring fantastic food to snack on, riveting cocktails and adventurous furniture to create a relaxing holiday-like atmosphere. Coming to life in summer, Untied uses fresh, seasonal produce to make a modern Australian menu perfect for shared-style gatherings. With both wine, beer, mocktails and fresh juices to enjoy, Untied also serves up an impressive range of signature and classic cocktails.
Image supplied.
Zeta Bar
What seems like a touch away from Queen Victoria Building, Zeta Bar in the heart of Sydney’s CBD encompasses award-winning cocktails, pristine city skyline views and luxury all into one. Entering Zeta Bar, guests are welcomed by the elegant atmosphere of leather-plushed decor and mesmerising white marbled fireplaces. Heading outside, the rooftop space is wrapped in clear glass railings to ensure the view will always be the best from any angle. Guests will also find high topped bar tables and chairs as well as portable heaters for the colder months. Renowned for being Australian pioneers of the bartending world, Zeta Bar certainly serves up to their pristine reputation.
Looking for another drink? Shake up your weekend with a fancy concoction at one of the Best Cocktail Bars in Sydney of 2023! Or, fo something more classic, say cheers to Sydney’s 10 Best Pubs!
Stunning views and the best cocktails Sydney has to offer? You’ve come to the right place!