Honestly, what is it about speakeasies that make them so damn fun?! Moving through hidden corridors towards merry drinkers may be part of it but being able to brag about going to a ‘really exclusive bar’ is probably closer to the truth. The good thing is that Sydney has plenty of hidden bars for you to tick off your bucket list. If you’ve already worked your way through Sydney CBD’s rooftop bars, here’s some of the best speakeasies in Sydney for your Saturday night enjoyment.
Employee’s Only
Employee’s Only is a literal institution. Famed in New York for their innovative cocktails, Prohibition-era interior and stellar service, Employee’s Only is on everyone’s list when they hit NYC.
Their Sydney outpost has been opened for a few years and yet many still miss its entrance. The trick is to look for the neon red ‘Psychic’ sign on Barrack Street before hobbling down the stairs of a heritage listed building. Venture deep enough and you’ll find fortune telling to your left and a world of indulgence to your right. Dark timber, brass accents and burlesque dancers from time to time set the scene at this speakeasy. The ambience is fun, whimsical and the crowd here are (surprisingly) unpretentious.
Employee’s Only serves many of their New York Classics including the Ameila with vodka, elderflower liquor, pureed blackberries and fresh lemon. You’ll also find home-grown concoctions like The Billionaire with bourbon shaken when grenadine, lemon and absinthe bitters. Pair your tipple with their signature steak tartare made at your table or oven baked bone marrow.
The Barber Shop
If you’re after a smashing G+T, you’ll find it at The Barber Shop. The spot is too easy to miss and most people who aren’t looking for a hidden bar stand around wondering why security is guarding a literal barber shop. Take the steps past the shopfront and you’ll find a cocktail bar, complete with flickering candles, a gramophone and plush seating area. It feels as dark and moody as it looks, and is the perfect amount of intimate for drinks with a side of conversation.
Their drinks menu is nothing short of impressive – there’s over 700 gins, an award-winning cocktail menu, a selection of Australian beer and wine, and a variety of gin “flights” or 4 half serves of gins from all over the globe for you to sample. Enjoy your drink of the night with a cheese board or cheeseburger if you need something meatier.
PS40
Hidden away on a dingy laneway with no signage, PS40 sure is inconspicuous. But once you enter into this cosy speakeasy, you’ll find a chilled crowd with staff that treat you like their best mates.
PS40 was previously best known for their sodas made on the premise. Now, they’re easily one of Sydney’s best pre-dinner locations with delightful cocktails like their signature Africola with coffee liquer, native cola and coconut foam. Each drink is best paired with a plate from their constantly changing menu featuring collaborations with Black Star Pastry and Tuesday Takeovers from talented chefs throughout the city. Check their Instagram for all the latest collabs.
Door Knock Bar
The fun at Door Knock Bar starts at the door – to enter, you need to find a polished brass pineapple doorknocker and knock (a very specific) three times before you’re let in.
Stroll through the lane just off Pitt St and step underground into the basement where you’ll find a red door with entry instructions. Once in, the vibe here is warm, friendly and perfect for candlelit date nights or catchup with the besties.
The best thing about the Door Knock is how knowledgeable their bartenders are. The best tasting cocktails are already on their menu featuring unexpected combinations like their Rumble In the Jungle with rum, aperol, falernum, pineapple, lime, yuzu and dill. If you’re after something extra unique, let the mixologists know and they’ll whip up something you’re bound to love. Skip dinner all together and eat your fill of grass fed sirloin, smoked chicken pappadelle or mac & cheese croquettes for something lighter.