Downing a cold one outdoors, high above the ground sounds like a great way to start and end a day. Thinking about gathering up the mates for a few rounds? Sameee. Here’s 5 of Sydney CBD’s best rooftop bars for all seasons, all occasions.
Sunset Drinks: Zephyr
Perched on the 12th level of the Hyatt Regency Sydney is Zephyr overlooking Darling Harbour. This sky bar is all types of stylish and chic, and makes for one of the most relaxing spots to watch the day pass by. Unwind on the white plush lounges and admire the cotton candy sunset with a vermouth cocktail and share plates of seafood. Craving something classic? The bar is home to Sydney’s largest menu of aperitifs and digestives, so there’s bound to be something that’ll tickle your fancy!
After-work Drinks: Level Seven
Smack bang in the middle of town is the resort-style Level Seven at Primus Hotel Sydney. This New York-inspired poolside bar is surprisingly unpretentious and has already established itself as a CBD favourite for blissing out, zoning out. Gather up your best work mates for a fancy rosé spritz and cocktail popsicle before ringing in the weekend with a bottle of Veuve Clicquot.
Celebratory Drinks: Henry Deane
Disclaimer, Henry Deane isn’t entirely exposed to the elements like the other bars but it’s too stunning to leave off. Sitting pretty on top of Hotel Palisade, this cocktail bar is a highly coveted space for NYE, birthdays, anniversaries and everything in between. With 360 degrees views of the iconic Harbour Bridge, Darling Habour and the surrounding area, it’s 100% not hard to see why. Toast the good life with their infamous frosé or the citrusy and nutty Coconut Daiquiri.
Casual Drinks: The Glenmore
What’s a Sydney rooftop bars list without The Glenmore aka the Godfather of all rooftop bars? An oldie but always a goodie, this is the place you hit up when you’re after something that’s tried and tested. The views here of the Harbour Bridge and The Opera House never fail to impress and there’s no overpriced drinks in sight. Come here for a no fuss weekday pub meal under the stars or an easy catchup with friends.
Date Night Pre-Drinks: Smoke Bar
There’s just no way you’ll miss the sophisticated Smoke Bar when you’re in Barangaroo. This black, oval-shaped building sits right on the waterfront, giving you panoramic views of the harbour and Sydney’s skyline. If your date likes a little sophistication, a little elegance and a little class, Smoke Bar is sure to impress. Drink in your decadent surroundings with over 50 smoke-infused cocktails and exclusive champagnes and wines, which can be paired with luxurious tasting plates of sea urchin and caviar. Now, if that doesn’t please the apple of your eye, what else will?!