Aster Bar Sydney

Perched on level 32 and open to the public, Aster is made for harbour views, big occasions and drinks worth dressing up for.

The outlook from atop the InterContinental along takes in the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the Botanic Garden in one sweep. Throw an epic cocktail list into the mix and you've got the setting for a perfect night.

Most hotel rooftops lean on the view and call it a day. Aster does the view, then gives you a reason to stay for the drinks. Level 32 is the highest floor of the InterContinental, and the outlook runs 270 degrees across the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the Royal Botanic Garden, with an outdoor terrace for when the weather plays along.

The signature list is fifteen cocktails that travel from earth to deep space, each one pinned to a layer of the atmosphere or a spot in the cosmos, and the flavours stay proudly local, with Geraldton wax, mountain pepper and saltbush all making an appearance. If you would rather keep it classic, there are tableside martinis built at your table and a serious run of whisky and mezcal flights.

The snacks are made for sharing and lean on Australian produce. It is a booked, dressed up, adults only kind of place, which is exactly why it works for the nights you want to feel like an occasion.