Music-led pizza and cocktail bar Dr. Goodes has officially opened on Sydney’s Oxford Street and it’s already drawing big crowds.

Head of Beverage Brandon Martignago (Dulcie’s Kings Cross) said the new bar and boogie lounge is keen to lead the resurgence of Paddington as a go-to for everything from golden hour drinks to live music.

“The concept of Dr. Goodes draws on the spirit of disco not as a theme, but as an influence brought into a modern context through a nostalgic filter. It’s about creating a space that feels open, unpretentious and built around people, music and atmosphere.

“During the day, it’s delicious pizza and fun cocktails with a relaxed atmosphere before shifting into a high-energy vibe with live music, great drinks and plenty of dancing in what we call the ‘boogie den’.”

Located inside the former El Primo Sanchez site, the venue hosts a main space with a mix of bar seating, lounge areas and booths to cater for guests in the early evening, before transforming into the venue’s dancefloor later in the night.

Wednesdays through Saturdays from 4pm, guests can dine-in at Dr. Goodes with snacks, pizza, and drinks, with take-away pizzas available Tuesday through to Saturday from midday until 9pm.

Drinks Digest sampled Dr. Goodes’ New York- and Roman-style pizzas and can confirm the classic Margherita, Pepperoni, and Prawn Saganaki are all delicious. The puffy, perfectly charred crusts and on point.

Guests can also choose from a selection of snacks and sides, plus desserts to pair with their pizzas, with the menu available until 10pm (with snacks running till close). We can confirm the seasoned fries are perfection.

“Pizza is the ideal dish for Dr. Goodes as it’s designed to work with the venue–starting as a substantial offering early on before becoming a great sharable, snackable option as the space unfolds into the more social, late-night vibe,” said Martingnago.

“If pizza isn’t the go, our ultimate cheese toastie is it–it’s the best comfort food.”

Drinks-wise, the menu has a core range of tap cocktails—think spicy margs, espresso martinis, palomas and spritzes—supported by a tight wine, beer and spirits list highlighting local and international producers.

There’s also a collection of fresh signature cocktails. Drinks Digest sampled the Roxanne at the venue’s launch party—strawberry gin shaken with pink peppercorns, Aperol and dry vermouth—and loved it.

“The Dr. Goodes drinks menu is full of recognisable styles but with some fun, modern riffs designed to taste great and be a fun yet easy partner for the dancefloor,” said Martignago.

Live entertainment is at the heart of Dr. Goodes, with Sydney DJ Richy Penny curating a regular roster of local, emerging and–on occasion–guest-star international DJs.

“Music evolves with the space at Dr. Goodes. It starts with more relaxed, groove-led sets earlier in the evening before building into higher-energy selections as the night progresses,” Penny said.

“This allows the venue to move naturally from a dining and drinks environment into a more social, dance-led setting.

“Guests can expect a balance between younger DJs who can bring intensity and pace, and more experienced selectors who understand how to build atmosphere and hold a room over time. Think Harry Nathan, Arianna Sunshine and Callyy.”

The interior design for Dr. Goodes was led by the feeling of a 70s-inspired boogie lounge. The venue is lined with velvet upholstery, timber, steel and leather to create a layered, yet slightly nostalgic feel, with the lounge areas providing a great chill-out space until the disco balls beckon again.

You’ll find Dr. Goodes at 27-33 Oxford Street, Paddington, NSW.