Soak up the sun from some of Sydney’s best rooftop bars. Bring on the cocktails!
Rooftop bars continue to pave the way as the most trendy, happening outings for Sydneysiders. With the warmer months upon us, it’s no wonder we gravitate toward open areas with plenty of sunshine. On a warm, sunny day, where would you rather be than on a rooftop bar sipping cocktails with your best friends? Here is our ultimate guide to the best rooftop bars Sydney has to offer. With more than 20 venues on the list, we challenge you to attend them all!
Cabana Bar, CBD
In 2022, Cabana Bar opened its resort-style playground in the new CBD precinct, 25 Martin Place. The new space boasts two bar areas, semi-private dining spaces and (drum roll), the city’s largest outdoor terrace spanning over 100m. Cabana Bar is open Monday to Saturday, all day long allowing Sydneysiders to escape the bustle of the city and operate on “Cabana Time“ from the light-filled Island Bar. From a quick bite to eat to boozy long lunches, wining and dining a special one and late-night cocktails, it’s a venue to suit all occasions. Find out more here.
Smoke Bar, Barangaroo
Set on the top level of Barangaroo House and led by restaurateur Matt Moran, Smoke Bar is one of the chicest rooftop bars in Sydney. The innovative cocktail menu provides solace from the Aussie heat and is made to match the seasons. Enjoy drinks like the Skyline Fizz with Bombay Sapphire gin, prosecco, grilled peach, raspberry, and the Strawberry Fields with 42 Below vodka, Amaro Montenegro, pineapple, vanilla and strawberry. What’s better than drinking alfresco while taking in world-class waterfront views? Find out more here.
Henry Deane at Hotel Palisade, Millers Point
The heritage-listed Hotel Palisade has been standing since 1912. Though, its newly renovated cherry on top, Henry Deane, is a rooftop bar that oozes modern sophistication. It’s a comfortable cocktail lounge, decorated with cosmopolitan charm and provides 360-degree views of the city from the Harbour Bridge to Barangaroo and beyond.
Food and drinks are all available in their finest forms, from white caviar and marinated pipis to Korean fish tacos. We love the cocktails at Hotel Palisade, particularly their Fuzzy Peach made with don Julio Blanco tequila, frozen peach and spices, and the Fizzy Wine made with Tanqueray blackcurrant gin, chardonnay and citrus. For more info read our full review on Hotel Palisade here.
Untied, Barangaroo
Barangaroo is home to a plethora of Sydney’s best rooftop bars, and the chic Untied is no exception. Untied welcomes the flavours and ambience of the tropics to the CBD. With the dim thud of tropical tunes, pick your way through a menu devoted to modern Australian cuisine. The slick urban outlook is almost as cool as the drinks menu which consists of classic and inventive cocktails. Our picks include the Raspberry Blossom and the signature Flamingo-Lada, made with rum, Malibu, coconut cream, pineapple and lime. Find out more here.
The Light Brigade, Woollahra
Sitting 83 metres above sea level, this rooftop bar provides an inner-city oasis, with a stunning view of the Sydney skyline. You’ll find a mixture of lounge and dining spaces, with a signature curved bar. Similar to a New York-style terrace, there is plenty of lush greenery with a casual Australian twist. Find out more here.
Zephyr Sky Bar, CBD
A little decadence never killed anybody! Located at the top of the Hyatt Regency Sydney, Zephyr offers city-slickers a sensational view of the CBD and Darling Harbour that is almost unmatched. Choose your own adventure with an impressive drinks list, from unique bespoke cocktails using exclusive luxury spirits to classic cocktails and an extensive wine list. Then sit back on the padded couches and watch as day turns to night, with the city buzzing brilliantly below. Share plates of seafood as you lose yourself in the distant swell of the ocean. Freshen up your evening with a taste of Sydney’s own rock lobsters, or just wander off with the view. Find out more here.
East Village Sydney, Darlinghurst
The East Village Hotel was renovated back in late 2016, and the décor now harpers back to bygone days across its three-tiered bar. As you head to the terrace, escape to the American coast in the 1950s. Bathed in white with planter boxes and pops of green vegetation surrounding you, gaze at the city skyline in amazement. At 100sqm you have enough space to unwind as you sip on Radio Rumba or Pornstar Martini and soak up the sun splintering through the retractable roof above. Find out more here.
The Rook, CBD
Pub-like casualness tends to be a reoccurring theme amongst the best rooftop bars in Sydney. Though, The Rook adds its own hint of class. That’s if you can find it. This hidden rooftop bar is located above an unassuming language school. Enter off York Street and hit ‘R’ in the elevator for Rooftop or Rook. Don’t get off on the wrong floor or you’ll be learning English rather than sipping cocktails. The cocktails are a major drawcard for The Rook, especially when gin is involved. The braised beef taco is an absolute must-try. Find out more here.
Taphouse Sydney, Darlinghurst
This local pub in the heart of Darlinghurst is self-described as “driven by a love of 3 things: Taps, Tunes & Chinese food”. Head upstairs to the rooftop and relax under the umbrellas. Order beers, cocktails and dumplings, and watch the afternoon roll by with friends on a sunny afternoon. Find out more here.
Coogee Pavilion, Coogee
It’s safe to say that Merivale has the rooftop bar scene down pat. Heading into more suburban locations, Coogee Pavilion is a favourite neighbourhood hangout in the Eastern Suburbs. Located on the shore of Coogee Beach, the open skies, ocean views, lush greenery and modern bars make this large space another must-go rooftop bar. The menu is inspired by the Eastern Mediterranean and the ancient techniques of cooking over charcoal. Share a selection of dishes from the charcoal grill paired with accompaniments and Lebanese bread. They also do a good Bloody Mary should you need a pick-me-up. That along with the ocean breeze should sort you right out. Find out more here.
SoCal, Neutral Bay
SoCal brings Southern Californian vibes to Neutral Bay. Expect sun, sangria, tacos, Coronas, fried chicken, margaritas and so much more. They have several different types of margaritas on offer along with classic cocktails, original creations and shared jug cocktails. You can order light drinking snacks like guacamole, salsa and chips through to more substantial dishes including snapper ceviche, roasted lamb, soft shell crab and pan-fried snapper. They also offer one of the best bottomless dining experiences in Sydney, with their 2 hour Bottomless Fiesta Lunch starting at $89. Find out more here.
Looking for more bottomless brunch venues? Read our guide to Sydney’s best bottomless dining experiences here.
Ivanhoe Rooftop, Manly
Venture to the idyllic Northern Beaches and find the Ivanhoe Hotel oasis located in the heart of The Corso in Manly. It’s a popular destination amongst locals with multiple levels and sophisticated seating areas. The Ivanhoe Hotel’s interiors channel a Hamptons-inspired coastal beach vibe while retaining the relaxed atmosphere of a local pub. The rooftop balcony is a great spot to perch for a few drinks after a swim in summer. Grab a casual bite while you’re there or reserve an area for a catch-up with friends and make a day of it. Find out more here.
Websters Bar, Newtown
Websters Bar is one of the most iconic pubs in Newtown, with its three levels of food, fun and ever-flowing drinks. High up on their rooftop that overlooks the streets of Newtown, enjoy a slice of 1950’s backyard Australiana. Late-night cocktails, late-night pizzas and late-night vinyl DJs under the stars are all on the cards until 4am. Find out more here.
Old Mates Place, CBD
Old Mate’s Place is smack bang in the heart of the city, snapping up prized real estate. The 40 person space is enticingly light and breezy, decked out with plenty of vibrant plants and a scattering of bookshelves for some solo time. Offering anything from vodka to beer, any drinker will be pleased. For snacking, be surprised by the roaring menu that includes a delicious selection of Philly cheesesteaks. Find out more here.
White Horse, Surry Hills
Nestled in the heart of Surry Hills, the newly revamped White Horse on Crown Street has a stunningrooftop bar. Offering a laid-back yet stylish atmosphere, the rooftop boasts stunning views of the city skyline, making it the perfect spot to sip on craft cocktails or enjoy a crisp local beer. With a refreshed menu featuring elevated pub classics and a focus on share plates, the White Horse is a hotspot for everything from after-work drinks to weekend gatherings. Its vibrant ambiance, paired with impeccable service, ensures it’s a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
The New Brighton Hotel, Manly
Another beachside Manly pub that is perhaps one of the lesser known but popular Sydney rooftop bars is The New Brighton Hotel. This northern shore pub does dining, drinking, dancing and the intimate rooftop bar is the cherry on top. Look down onto the lively Manly Corso and people watch or stare straight ahead at the beautiful ocean. Find out more here.
The Glenmore, The Rocks
The Glenmore is one of the original rooftop bars in Sydney. Since 1921, The Glenmore has stood tall in The Rocks, facing the beauty of The Opera House and Harbour Bridge for years. It still carries its old colonial English tradition, with a renovated edge. The Glenmore is the perfect location for a relaxed pub dinner, a post-work drink, or a weekend cocktail. On the weekends when the sun is out it’s hard to get a table so if you’re heading there with a group of friends we suggest getting in early. Find out more here.
Aster, InterContinental Double Bay
The most recent addition to the rooftop bar scene is Aster at the InterContinental Double Bay. Opened in September 2022, Aster allows you to experience lavish living yourself without the price tag of staying the night. Enjoy elevated dining and drinks while taking in the stunning views of the sparkling harbour. Find out more here.
Bristol Arms Rooftop Bar, CBD
As far as Sydney rooftop bars go the Bristol Arms rooftop has one of the most relaxed, homely vibes in the heart of Sydney’s CBD concrete jungle. White picket fencing, timber panelling and casual décor bring a friendly and comforting element to Sydney’s skyline. You can also book this space for functions- hello rooftop birthday! Find out more here.
Royal Hotel, Paddington
A Paddington favourite, The Royal Hotel rooftop welcomes young and old for a traditional pub experience and a classic nod to the frivolity of the eastern suburbs. Enjoy a cocktail in the glorious afternoon sun on the fourth floor of this local icon. Offering ‘Sunday Sessions’ with $18 bloody mary’s, The Royal is the ideal place to kick start your evening and round off the weekend. Find out more here.
The Rooftop, The Quarryman’s Hotel
Situated at the top of the Quarryman’s Hotel in Pyrmont, The Rooftop emits uber cool Palm Springs vibes. Contrasting the craft beer institutions in the bar below, The Rooftop is all about the Californian cool with the chic venue providing a relaxed atmosphere of a pool-side lounge. The signature cocktail menu offers a selection of funky twists on shaken and stirred classics. And for when you get hungry, dine on a food menu nodding to modern American cuisine with poke bowls and tacos. Find out more here.
CIRQ, Barangaroo
Located 26 floors above the Crown’s waterfront location, CIRQ offers world-class views of the Sydney harbour and a dining experience you don’t want to miss. Relax on the luxurious light-filled terrace while you enjoy an expertly crafted menu of bespoke cocktails and share plates. Find out more here.
Frequently asked questions:
What are the best rooftop bars with a view in Sydney?
For cocktails with a view, visit Smoke Bar, Untied or CIRQ in Barangaroo, Henry Deane in Millers Point, The Light Brigade in Woollahra, Coogee Pavillion in Coogee or Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel.
What are the best rooftop bars that do bottomless brunch in Sydney?
For the best bottomless brunch rooftop venues, visit SoCal in Neutral Bay, Babylon in the CBD, or Slims Rooftop in the CBD.
What are the best rooftop bars in Sydney CBD?
The best rooftop bars in the CBD include Cabana Bar in Martin Place, Babylon Rooftop, Henry Deane in Millers Point, and so many more.
What are the best rooftop bars north of the Sydney Harbour Bridge?
In the North, visit SoCal in Neutral Bay or New Brighton Hotel in Manly.
