Whether you’re fresh from a theatre performance, wrapping up dinner with friends or just clocking off from work, Sydney’s inner city offers a vibrant mix of cocktail bars and late-night venues that keep the energy flowing well into the night.

From hidden speakeasies to award-winning cocktail bars, Destination NSW has released a guide to the best places to sip, snack and socialise after hours. 

CBD haunts

Maybe Sammy

Great for: Award-winning cocktails and vintage glamour 

Step into one of the world’s best bars, where service is what you’d expect from a top-tier hotel bar meets elegance in a plush, retro lounge. Maybe Sammy’s mini cocktails are perfect for sampling, and the martini cart adds a touch of theatre. Don’t miss the lobster rolls for a late-night snack. 

Bar 1880

Great for: Speakeasy vibes and pre-theatre drinks 

Just off Bulletin Place, Bar 1880 is a two-level cocktail haven with laneway seating and a moody upstairs lounge. The drinks are the star here, but the share plates – think cured meats and sardines – make it a great spot to linger. 

Cantina OK!

Great for: Mezcal magic and hidden alleyway charm 

This tiny, neon-lit bar tucked down a CBD laneway is a mezcal lover’s dream. Let the bartenders guide you through rare agave spirits and inventive cocktails like the Watermelon Sumac. It’s intimate, energetic, and unforgettable. 

Herbs Taverne 

Great for: Negroni lovers and bitter drink aficionados 

Opened in May 2025, Herbs is a shrine to the Negroni and the world of amaro. With a laser focus on bold, bitter flavours, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate a well-balanced aperitif in a fun, modern setting. 

The Press

Great for: Live music and late-night martinis 

Behind an unmarked door lies The Press, an opulent music bar. With a house band playing jazz, soul and disco, and DJs keeping the tempo high, it’s a glamorous spot for cocktails and dancing into the early hours. 

Letra House

Great for: Tapas and wine until late 

Hidden beneath Palazzo Salato, Letra House is a subterranean wine bar with over 50 bottles available by the glass. The Spanish-inspired menu is perfect for sharing, and the vibe is intimate and effortlessly cool. 

Ette

Great for: Seamless transitions from dinner to drinks 

Open until 2am, Ette blends fast fine dining with a buzzy bar atmosphere. It’s sleek, modern, and ideal for those who want to start with dinner and stay for cocktails without changing venues. 

Grandfather’s 

Great for: Late-night Chinese and cocktails 

Serving supper until 1am, Grandfather’s focuses on the bold flavours of Guangdong and Sichuan. Think spring rolls, seafood, and a serious wine list – all in a stylish, welcoming space. 

Darlinghurst destination bars

Vin-Cenzo’s 

Great for: Supper club vibes and Italian cocktails 

With a rare 3am licence, Vin-Cenzo’s is built for late-night revelry. Expect Italian classics with a twist, bottled negronis, and a wine list that spans continents. The low-lit interiors and intimate feel make it a favourite for end-of-week gatherings. 

The Waratah 

Great for: Aussie produce and terrace drinks 

This two-storey terrace bar celebrates Australian producers with a seasonal menu and a relaxed, heritage-inspired setting. Whether you’re upstairs on the terrace or downstairs at the walk-in bar, it’s a great spot for a late-night bite and a local drop.