Rosie Campbell’s Rum Bar, Surry Hills

Bars, Drink, Eat, Restaurants, Sydney / 4 August 2023

Nestled on the corner of Campbell and Crown Street in Surry Hills, Rosie Campbell’s is a lively Jamaican rum bar that exudes an irresistible Caribbean charm.

Stepping inside this bright and colourful oasis, you’ll be greeted by mismatching bold patterns adorning the roof, table tops, and walls. Vintage Caribbean posters, pineapples on window ledges, and assorted knick-knacks complete the vibrant ambiance, making you feel like you’ve been transported to a Caribbean celebration right in the heart of Sydney.

Owned and operated by Andrew Wallace of ESPER Hospitality (venues also include Mille Vini), Rosie Campbell’s has become a beloved Surry Hills stalwart. Sydneysiders flock to this cozy corner restaurant to savour the delectable Caribbean-inspired soul food. The menu boasts an array of authentic Jamaican dishes, including coconut pepper prawns, slow-cooked curry goat, rich oxtail stew, plantains, and mouthwatering beef patties. However, the star of the show is undoubtedly their famous jerk chicken. Marinated overnight, fire-grilled, and smothered with their in-house made jerk sauce.

For those with a sweet tooth, Rosie Campbell’s housemade rum cake is an absolute must-try. This ultra-moist cake soaked in boozy deliciousness will transport you to white sandy beaches with just one bite.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, Rosie’s hosts a regular rotation of live music and entertainment. Every Wednesday, live performers take the stage, while the four-piece band Kool Vibration brings down the house with their roots, reggae, and island vibes every second Thursday. Saturdays are reserved for Rosie’s Bottomless Daiquiri Lunch, a must-try experience offering two hours of unlimited Daiquiris and Rose, accompanied by a five-course island banquet for just $99 per person between 12 pm and 3 pm. And if you’re a fan of old-school reggae, dub, and ska, Sundays feature Vinyl DJs to end the week in style.

As a leading rum bar destination in Sydney, Rosie Campbell’s is a paradise for rum enthusiasts. With over 160 bottles of rum adorning its walls, including sought-after varieties from Jamaica such as Wray & Nephew, and favorites from all over the Caribbean, the selection is impressive. Guests can also explore nearly 15 creative tropical cocktails, perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy moments, like the ‘Coco Colada’ – a pina colada cocktail served in a coconut shell topped with dried banana. For non-rum drinkers, the bar offers a variety of beers, ciders, roses, and wines, and they can even create non-alcoholic versions of their delightful cocktails.

Expect to be greeted with friendly table service in a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. The inviting venue blends cozy booths and colourful tables, making it the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy great music while savouring the unique Caribbean flavours. Rosie Campbell’s stands out as a truly exceptional destination amidst the bustling city of Sydney.

Rosie Campbell’s is open Tuesday – Thursday from 4pm – 12am, Friday from 12pm – 12am and Saturday & Sunday from 1pm – 12am. Find out more here.