Cafe Freda’s, the much-loved Darlinghurst haunt, is making a comeback in Chippendale as Bar Freda’s this April with a fresh new vibe.

Sydneysiders, get ready to welcome back a beloved Sydney icon! Owners Dave Abram and Carla Uriarte are partnering with Solotel to transform The Abercrombie’s Lil Sis space, just a stone’s throw from their O.G. location into Bar Freda’s, opening Thursday 24th April. Expect the same infectious energy and creative spirit that made the original Freda’s so special, now with a renewed focus on crafted cocktails and wines from small producers.

Bar Freda’s draws inspiration from late-night bars in Berlin, classic American dive bars, and New York-style delis. The menu blends nostalgia with comfort, offering bar snacks such as Sydney Rock Oysters, house-made pickles and sliced meats, alongside standout dishes like a lasagne croquette served with hot sugo. There’s a mix of pastas, including rigatoni with eggplant ragu and stracciatella, and mafaldine with crab, tomato, chilli and pangrattato—an ode to the popular pasta nights at Cafe Freda’s. The sandwich selection includes a Reuben-style stack with pastrami, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and house dressing, and a fried king prawn roll with Thousand Island dressing, pickled cucumber and iceberg.

The drinks list is unpretentious and built around quality and fun. Cocktails include a Frozen Espresso Martini made with NODO Coffee Tequila, a matcha-infused Piña Colada, and Freda’s take on a Martini featuring vodka, vermouth and pickle brine. There are three Margarita options, including a locally sourced version with Black Snake Agave, rosella and smoked salt. The bar will also offer a rotating wine list featuring small Australian and European producers, a specialty tap from Grifter Brewing, and a range of non-alcoholic options including Club Mate.

In addition to the bar, the team will also take over the adjoining nightclub space at The Abercrombie. Club Freda’s will host regular events showcasing local DJs, artists and promoters, continuing the brand’s commitment to supporting emerging talent. With a 24-hour license and 15 years of hospitality experience behind them, Dave and Carla are looking to create a venue that’s as much about community as it is about good times.

Get ready to experience the rebirth of Freda’s in Chippendale this April and follow Bar Freda’s to stay up to date on Instagram here.