Score the best seat in the house with the best spots to wine and dine at the bar in Sydney.

Whether you’re organising a date night or catching up with an old mate, scoring a seat at the bar guarantees a fun night out. So, we’ve put together a guide to our favourite spots to do just that.

Albertos Lounge, CBD

Looking for a cosy neighbourhood Italian bar and restaurant in the CBD? Look no further than Albertos Lounge. With plenty of bar seating, plus tables for couples and larger groups, it’s the perfect spot for an intimate dining experience.

Arthur, Surry Hills

Tucked away on leafy Bourke Street is Arthur Restaurant, one of the best spots to wine and dine at the bar in Sydney. Expect a top-notch shared set menu featuring oysters, Moreton Bay Bug, scallops, calamari, and so much more.

Bar Patron, CBD

Delivering sophisticated, modern Mexican eats to the heart of Sydney is Bar Patron. The venue is actually a world-first collab between Rockpool Dining Group and Tequila Patron. Experience the venue at its best from the bar, with plenty of seating available right in front of the action.

Bar Totti’s, CBD

Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a delicious dinner, Bar Totti’s has you covered. Expect house-made antipasti, Totti’s signature wood-fired bread, and plenty of delicious Italian wines, with plenty of bar seating as well.

Cafe Paci, Newtown

Head to the heart of Newtown to drink and dine at the bar at Cafe Paci. This top-notch restaurant slings incredible pasta, starters, and sides, with an impressive wine and cocktail list to match.

Coogee Wine Room, Coogee

Looking for 400+ delicious drops to choose from? Look no further than the neighbourhood wine bar, Coogee Wine Room. Just a short stroll from the water, this delicious restaurant has plenty of bar seating for a casual yet refined dining experience.

Continental Deli Bar & Bistro, Newtown

For cheese, charcuterie, and canned cocktails, head to Continental Deli Bar & Bistro. Score a seat at their bar and watch the bartenders work their magic (day or night).

DOC Sydney, Surry Hills

Swing by 78 Campbell Street and you’ll find DOC Sydney, an authentic pizza and mozzarella bar. Here, bar-style dining is what they do best with delicious pizza topped with simple ingredients (as well as plenty of antipasto and mozzarella, of course).

Esteban, CBD

Finding its home inside an old printing shop, Esteban delivers an innovative menu of authentic Mexican dishes to take you from street-food inspired bites all the way to larger share plates.Head to their on-site mezcal bar for delicious Mexican eats and tequila-fuelled cocktails

Jimmy’s Falafel, CBD

Say hello the Jimmy’s Falafel, Merivale’s new Middle Eastern eatery, bar and takeout joint now open on George Street. Head inside to score a seat at the bar and enjoy a mix of mezze, charcoal plates to share, falafel alongside warm Lebanese bread and hummus, and a bunch of rustic Lebanese dishes.

Nour, Surry Hills

For another playful take on classic Lebanese flavours, head to the bar at Surry Hills’ Nour Restaurant. Expect innovative, vibrant and bold flavours and delicious drinks served from brunch to dinner.

Nikkei Bar & Restaurant, Surry Hills

At Nikkei, expect a modern, share-style offering of Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. Experience dishes of ceviche and tiradito alongside larger dishes showcasing Peru’s native vegetables like corn, potato, and tomato, along with seafood and meat dishes served tapa-style.

Poly, Surry Hills

For the ultimate Sydney bar-dining experience, head to Poly. This inner-city wine bar boasts delicious snacks, top-notch natural wines, and a killer cocktail menu.

Ragazzi Wine & Pizza, CBD

If you’re looking to dine at the bar, head to Ragazzi, the sleek Italian pasta and wine bar in the CBD. Expect a 10-seater bar with an impressive 250+ wine list to choose from.

RaRa, Redfern

Slurp your way through authentic, hand-crafted ramen at RaRa Redfern. This local ramen bar has an epic menu of classic ramen options (and delicious drinks to wash it all down too).

Ria Pizza + Wine, Potts Point

Head to Potts Point and score top-notch sourdough pizzas, snacks, and small dishes from Ria Pizza + Wine. Nab a seat at the bar and get ready for a casual and fun dining experience.