The Best Cocktail Bar Restaurants in Sydney

ANTE is a sake bar in Newtown, Sydney, that offers a friendly, laid-back vibe for both sake enthusiasts and newcomers. The menu changes often, and their thoughtful approach to cooking keeps things fresh. An impressive vinyl collection adds to the relaxed atmosphere, making it an inviting spot to explore new flavors.

Recommended by

Pat Nourse

Food Writer

Sake never looks better in Sydney The combination of Jemma Whiteman, a chef with experience across everything from Pinbone to Billy Kwong and Lankan Filling Station, and Matt Young, the former 10 William Street somm behind Black Market sake imports, was always going to be great, but Ante is even better than you’d have guessed – a sake bar with a killer menu, great tunes and a vibe wonderfully all its own.

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Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is a long-standing favorite in Sydney, known for its sweeping ocean views and relaxed setting. Whether you’re dropping by after a coastal walk or settling in for a leisurely meal, it’s become an important part of the city’s dining scene. With nearly two decades of history, this beachside spot continues to draw locals and visitors alike.

Recommended by

Beau Clugston

Chef

The city’s most iconic restaurant. If you're dropping in after the Coogee to Bondi walk and having a glass of wine and fresh seafood on the terrace with Australia’s most iconic view or a full blown meal in the evening, Icebergs is the place to be for many reasons. To me it is an important part of the Sydney culture and more than a restaurant.

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Lana is a modern Italian restaurant that brings in Asian influences, all set in the historic Hinchcliff House near Circular Quay. It offers a relaxed, playful atmosphere for any occasion, whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner. A nearby cocktail bar also invites you to enjoy a drink before or after your meal.

Recommended by

Beau Clugston

Chef

A house that has it all. A classy restaurant with fun at its core, Steve Seckold’s bringing his years of experience in creating a restaurant with care and commitment suitable for all types of occasions. Don’t forget to have a drink in the cocktail bar downstairs pre or post dinner.

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Set in a relaxed, bunker-like space in Sydney’s Surry Hills, NEL Restaurant delivers a playful spin on fine dining without any fuss. Their regularly changing tasting menus keep things fresh and exciting, giving guests an ever-evolving culinary experience. With an intimate atmosphere and a focus on creativity, it’s a welcoming spot for anyone looking to try something different.

Recommended by

Zoe Bowker

Food Consultant

You won’t find egos or snooty behaviour here, this is fine dining gone fun - ‘fun dining’ if you will. Chef Nelly Robinson’s infectious persona permeates every part of the meal at Nel. and we’re living for it. We experienced their Disney menu that boasted blue genie cocktails poured from the lamp, a venison dish accompanied by a shotgun shell of topping entitled ‘Bambi’s Mum’ and a Peter Pan-inspired crocodile croquette. You can probably see where we’re going with this. Their themed menus change regularly and one thing’s for sure - Nel.’s food will put a smile on your face.

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