Your Guide to Sydney’s Rooftop Bar Scene

Located in Darlinghurst, the staircase leading up to Slims Rooftop could easily be renamed the stairway to heaven. This open-air watering hole is a real treat, surrounded by succulent plants and low walls that give you every opportunity to bask in the stunning views of the Art-Deco buildings on William Street. Slims Rooftop is a lively and large space with a short and sharp drinks list. Sip on Australian wines, a creative line-up of on-tap beers, and of course the yummy cocktail list. Food-wise, taste items from an izakaya menu with small sashimi plates, fish tacos, gyozas, grilled eggplant and more.

An absolute Japanese-inspired showstopping venue can be found in Joji. It’s a glamorous venue perched up high with sensational cityscape views. Located right in the heart of Sydney CBD, Joji features an unmistakably sexy cocktail lounge, dining space and rooftop terrace. Stay a short time or spend a while – Joji is open until 2am most nights. It’s a relatively new venue for the bustling city but the team behind it are far from inexperienced. Esca Group has well-known Aalia, Nour, Ito and pan-Asian restaurant Lilymu under their belt. An eclectic glow of energy, coupled with cocktails made to perfection, and so much more – there are so many reasons why Joji is on our list.

Stacked with bars, it can be hard to stand out in Sydney. Yet, Sky Bar – within the multi-level venue of Shell House – is a scene-stealer, located smack-bang in the middle of skyscrapers, above the most lively and bopping part of the Emerald City. Sip on the salty-rimmed Margarita that offers the right balance of tartness from lime and sweetness from orange liquor. Or, slurp down the High Society Sour – an exhilarating concoction of Tanqueray gin, elderflower, cucumber, mint and fresh lime. The decor at Sky Bar was what really impressed us. From large lightshades above the bar, to the low, curved chairs, expensive-looking timber bar stools, and the modern warm lighting. 

Following a huge $170 million Martin Place revamp, Cabana Bar was one of the many bars and diners that started slinging quality cocktails and tins in the heart of the Sydney CBD. Cabana Bar is the city’s largest outdoor terrace watering hole, surrounded by a slew of high rises. We love Cabana for the beachfront vibes it gives us, allowing us to picture our toes in the sand while sipping on a delectably made concoction of all the good flavours. Experience holiday vibes on a sprawling wraparound terrace of over 100 metres. Feeling peckish? Taste pub classics like a cheeseburger or chicken schnitty, or split a meal amongst friends with plenty of shared plates available.

A gigantic 250-person night club located on the third floor, The Bristol is a sparkling space with plenty to offer Sydney’s heaving rooftop bar scene. It’s a stunning venue spread across five floors, inclusive of a Mediterranean-inspired dining room and a moody cocktail lounge, not to mention a fantastic sports bar to catch the latest game. However, our favourite part (and the reason why you’re reading this guide) is the sun-soaked rooftop oasis – the perfect reward for loyal customers who have waited four years for this much-loved venue to reopen. Fronted by an unassuming entryway on Sussex Street, you wouldn’t expect the activity taking place within thanks to plenty of after-work folk taking advantage of happy hour under the macrame umbrellas.

Witness the majesty of the Sydney Harbour from the rooftop of The Glenmore Hotel. Located in the Rocks, Glenmore is a great spot to invite visitors from out of town, or friends for a weekend catchup. There’s plenty of chatter about the views experienced at this highly-regarded rooftop venue – from the majesty of the Harbour Bridge to the Opera House and Sydney CBD, it’s an easy drinking spot to sell to your friends – especially due to the relatively affordable prices on offer. Established in 1921, there’s a charming mix of history and modernity about this spot, exuding a sense of the city’s storied past while still providing all the stylish, contemporary touches.

Gather at one of the city’s best (almost) 360-degree views of Sydney at Henry Deane. Serving up a feast for the eyes, you’ll find the afternoon quickly escapes you at this sparkling rooftop bar that feels as if it is located on top of the world. Decked out with tan and salmon pink lounges, as well as pops of colour from red-velvet chairs and so much more, Henry Deane is a naturally-lit, glass-walled cocktail lounge with much to explore. Named after an Australian engineer and architect known for electrifying Sydney’s tram system and building certain railways – a magical evening can be spent at Henry Deane.

Catch breathtaking panoramic views of Sydney’s magnificent skyscrapers at Above 319, a vibrant rooftop bar situated atop the Vibe Hotel. Craving an inexpensive cocktail? Head to Above 319 from Wednesday to Friday for fun $15 tipples. All drinks arrive garnished with all the good stuff – from sparklers to liquid nitrogen bubbles. Beyond the drinks, the ambience at Above 319 is equally enticing thanks to its relaxed yet energetic atmosphere, with chic, comfortable seating areas. Taste a selection of tasty bar bites, perfectly curated to complement the cocktails. Fall in love with Sydney over and over again by giving Above 319 a chance.