Sydney’s Best Aperitivo Hours

Bars, Drink, Drinks Guide, Guide, Sydney / 12 December 2023
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Sydney’s Best Aperitivo Hours

Bars, Drink, Drinks Guide, Guide, Sydney / 12 December 2023

Welcome to the art of unwinding.

Inspired by European soirées that stretch into the night, Aperitivo hour is our local answer to the relaxed elegance of the Italian pre-dinner gathering. Unlike our European counterparts who dine fashionably late, we’ve adjusted the clock to suit our Aussie rhythm. It’s the perfect prelude to your evening, a social affair that sets the mood just right.

So, what’s the deal? Sydney’s best spots are now offering their spin on Aperitivo hour, creating a fusion of cultures right in the heart of our vibrant city. It’s not just about the drink and the bite; it’s a moment to savour the transitional magic between work and play. Imagine sipping on a classic cocktail or a spritz while nibbling on delectable snacks, all without breaking the bank.

Join us as we explore Sydney’s Aperitivo scene, where the drinks are cool, the snacks are tempting, and the atmosphere is nothing short of delightful. From enchanting cocktails to pocket-friendly specials, we’ve rounded up the places where you can effortlessly slip into the spirit. No need to jet off to Europe; Sydney’s version is here, and it’s about time we celebrated the joy of slowing down, one sip at a time.

Alfie's Martini for Sydney Aperitivo Hour

Alfie’s

Discover the allure of Alfie’s Bar, where laid-back vibes meet exceptional drinks. From Monday to Saturday, 4-6 pm, dive into the daily happy hour that transforms a casual drink into a moment of delight. Sip on the meticulously crafted $16 Alfie’s Martini or refresh with a $14 Bloody Shiraz Spritz. Let the East End Old Fashioned elevate your happy hour experience for just $15. And if you’re in the mood for a brew, savour The Grifter’s Butcher of Beer for only $3. Unwind with classics like the $6 Gin & Tonic or enjoy red and white wine for a relaxed $10.

Lil Darlin, Surry Hill & Crows Nest

Known for shaking up the city’s cocktail scene with their signature Fairy Floss creation, Li’l Darlin is serving up a line up of eccentric sips. Their Crows Nest outpost keeps the magic alive with $12.50 Happy Hour specials that promise big flavours without breaking the bank. Sip your way through their inventive concoctions and pair them with casual bites from sizzling prawn tacos to saffron and parmersan arinicini. It’s a happy hour worth toasting to, no strings attached.

Hacienda, Circular Quay

From Tuesday to Friday, 4:00pm to 6:00pm, enjoy $15 margaritas and wines alongside a curated menu of premium bites. Think Lobster and Sesame Tostadas topped with caviar, a fiery Habanero Smash Burger, and even French Fries served silver-service style. It’s a happy hour that makes every sip and bite feel like a golden moment.

De Vine, CBD

From 3 pm to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, enjoy $8 Peroni beers, and $10 cocktails, plus special-priced bar snacks that’ll make your evenings unforgettable. Picture yourself savoring crispy zucchini flowers in one hand and a perfectly crafted Negroni in the other. Walk-ins are welcome, but why not secure your spot and make your visit extra special?


Charles Bar

Ease into the evening at The Charles Bar during The Charles Hours, a weekday sanctuary where laid-back moments are elevated. From 4 pm to 7 pm, let the week’s hustle fade away as you sip on specially crafted cocktails for just $16—whether it’s the Snacked Size Sidecar, a refreshing Southside, or the intriguing Haystack Cocktail. If wine is your muse, savour glasses at $14, or opt for a satisfying schooner at $8. Simply sit back, relax and unwind with drinks and small bites after a busy day.

Saké

Saké knows how to turn the ordinary into extraordinary during their Happy Hour, and it’s a game-changer. Running Monday to Friday from 5 pm to 6 pm, this is the time to experience Saké’s signature vibe without breaking the bank. Picture this: iconic Hiramasa Kingfish for just $10 and an array of delectable bites starting at $5. But it doesn’t stop there – the liquid happiness flows with $7 whisky highballs, refreshing gin and tonics, and wines that hit the spot at $10 a glass. Oh, and did we mention the $7 Asahi?

RAFI North Sydney

RAFI in North Sydney is rewriting the Happy Hour narrative, making every afternoon a celebration. From 3 pm to 6 pm, Monday to Saturday, indulge in the laid-back elegance of RAFI Hour. Whether you’re nestled under Aperol-hued umbrellas, perched at the bar, or enjoying a cozy spot on the terrace, RAFI is your go-to after-work haven. Sip on refreshing cocktails like the Aperol Spritz or the innovative Garhubaldi, all while soaking up the sun’s golden glow. Paired with a thoughtfully curated bar snacks menu featuring delights like crispy chickpea and green chilli hummus or the irresistible crispy pork collar burger, RAFI Hour is not just a happy hour—it’s a North Sydney ritual.

PIER Bar

PIER Bar’s Sunset Hour is not just your typical happy hour; it’s an invitation to unwind against the breathtaking backdrop of Sydney Harbour. From Monday to Friday, 5 pm to 6 pm, guests can savour the magic of the sunset with exclusive food and drink specials right at the water’s edge. Crafted cocktails, including house Negronis, Margaritas, and Old Fashioneds, are a steal at just $12, while draughts come in at $8. The highlight? The iconic $2 oysters that pay homage to the rich history of Pier One as a bustling seafood hub.

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