Sydney’s love affair with gin is anything but subtle.
From tucked-away speakeasies to sun-drenched rooftops and high-energy cocktail theatres, the city has quietly become a playground for juniper lovers. Whether you’re a die-hard martini devotee or someone who simply appreciates a crisp G&T done right, there’s no shortage of spots shaking things up in style.
So if you’re in the mood to swap your usual for something a little more refined (or a lot more fun), these are the best spots in Sydney to drink gin right now.
Bar Planet, Newtown
This new inner-west bar specialises in martinis and bartenders pour them theatrically from beautiful Spanish decanters. If you’re after a well-made gin cocktail, Bar Planet is the place to go.
Maybe Sammy, The Rocks
Tucked away in The Rocks, Maybe Sammy is far more than your average cocktail bar, it’s a full-blown theatrical experience where martinis meet jazz and every drink comes with a side of showmanship. Since opening in 2019, the award-winning venue has become a global name, known for its slick service, playful energy and boundary-pushing drinks. Expect bartenders shaking, stirring and performing in sync, with bubble guns and tableside theatrics elevating the entire experience. For something a little different, try the unique Never Never Beeswax & Olive Gin served with a light tonic and an olive “it’s an unexpected combination that just works,” says Sean Baxter, Never Never Co-founder and Brand Director.
Frank Mac’s, The Rocks
This bar opened on George Street from the hospitality heavyweights behind whisky bar, The Doss House. Frank Mac’s offers one of the biggest botanical collections available in Sydney with over 8- juniper blends sourced from all over the globe.
Archie Rose, Rosebery
Rubbing shoulders with Archie Rose’s on-site distillery, the Archie Rose bar is the perfect spot to sip some of the best gin in Sydney. Grab a seat and enjoy a classic G&T or go all out with a gin-fuelled cocktail like the Neighbourhood Negroni or Joan Collins. Plus with plenty of bar snacks to enjoy as well, you’ll want to sit, sip and linger over a drink or two.
The Barber Shop, CBD
Tucked away on York Street in the heart of the city, The Barber Shop is one of Sydney’s most awarded gin bars. Since opening in 2013, the venue has been offering a stellar cocktail list and gin “flights” with a gin-inspired food menu to match.
Manly Spirits Co., Brookvale
Manly Spirits Co specialises in craft spirits made with locally sourced ingredients. The bar offers a wide range of cocktails, gin and whisky tastings, and distillery tours for visitors to learn about the distilling process.
The Fernery, Mosman
Head to Mosman and flock to The Fernery rooftop bar for one of the best spots to sip gin in Sydney. While you can order gin-fuelled drinks from the main bar, we suggest heading to the venue’s sleek dedicated gin room to sample gins from locally crafted Australian distillers.
Finders Distillery, St Leonards
Finders Distillery finds its home in an unassuming industrial unit in St Leonards. Headed up by Aussie duo Kyle and Georgia, they sure know a thing or two about Australian-made spirits. Here you can sample the distillery’s top-notch spirits (all infused with botanicals and ingredients local to the Lower North Shore) including classic cocktails, G&Ts and so much more.
Gin Lane, Chippendale
Serving 150+ varieties of hand-selected gin, Gin Lane is Chippendale’s answer to the raft of specialty bars that have taken over Sydney. Located on Kensington Street, the intimate bar welcomes the 18th Century into the present day with an inventive drinks list and sleek ambiance. With radiant lighting and a timber interior, this 18th Century townhouse setting perfectly recreates the simplicity of olden day London.
Bondi Liquor Co., Bondi Beach
Located in the heart of Bondi, Bondi Liquor Co. is the beachside suburb’s first and only distillery, serving up small-batch gins, vodkas and citrusy liqueurs inspired by coastal living. The venue blends laid-back charm with premium pours, offering gin making masterclasses, tasting experiences and a rotating menu of signature cocktails like the Spicy Margatini and Acai Super Gin.
Poor Toms, Marrickville
Poor Toms is one of Sydney’s most beloved gin distilleries, born from a shared dream between two friends to redefine Australia’s craft spirits scene. Located in Marrickville, it’s the perfect spot to sip inventive cocktails, sample small-batch gins and soak in the relaxed, creative energy of the Inner West.
Whether you’re chasing a classic G&T, exploring a distillery tour or sipping something new under the Sydney sun, this gin guide has you covered with one juniper-filled stop at a time.
