InterContinental Sydney is taking cocktail hour to new heights—literally.

Opening February 21st, the hotel is unveiling the Southern Hemisphere’s oldest working lift bar, blending history, innovation, and an expertly crafted drinks menu in an experience unlike any other.

Nestled inside The Treasury Bar & Lounge, this heritage lift—dating back to 1851—has been reimagined into a moving bar, where mixologists shake up micro cocktails as guests ascend and descend. The journey doesn’t end there; after sipping a bespoke lift-crafted drink, guests continue their experience at The Treasury Bar with a second cocktail and two exquisite small plates.

On the menu? History in a glass. Signature serves include:

The Georgian Gimlet – a refined take on the classic, nodding to the building’s Georgian architecture with Four Pillars Yuzu Gin, citrus, sugar, and sencha tea.

The Vault Martini – inspired by the underground vaults once used for storing bonds, with Beluga Noble Vodka, dry curacao, hibiscus, and citrus.

The Atrium Negroni – honouring the stunning antique dome with a local twist, featuring Four Pillars Dry Gin, Campari, vermouth, and lemon myrtle.

1851 Old Fashioned – a rich, nutty tribute to the Treasury Building’s foundation year, with Dalmore Double Oak, sugar, bitters, and macadamia.

Paired with delicate bites like caramelised pork betel leaves and beef skewers with tonnato sauce, the lift bar is as much about indulgence as it is about atmosphere.

Mattia Arnaboldi, Director of Bars at InterContinental Sydney, describes it as “a vault of Sydney’s best-kept secrets”, offering a one-of-a-kind way to sip, savour, and immerse in the hotel’s storied past.

The Southern Hemisphere’s Oldest Lift Bar will operate Fridays and Saturdays from February 21 to March 29, between 4pm – 6pm, at $69 per person. For a cocktail experience that’s truly a step up, book your spot at InterContinental Sydney.