The Best Pubs in Sydney CBD For a Pint

For many Sydneysiders, popping into a pub is the best way to unwind on the weekend, or after a hard day at work. With a casual, fuss-free vibe, the best pubs beckon us to come in and relax with the help of an ice-cold bevvy, a crispy schnitty, and, sometimes, fare that’s on the fancier side. 

The city’s pub scene is vast and diverse and packed with everything from old-school boozers and gastropubs to beer gardens, rooftops and party pubs.

So next time you’re in need of a beer (or a frose!) and a feed, head to one of the best pubs in Sydney CBD and surrounding ‘burbs.

The Squire’s Landing

What better way to spend a Sydney evening, than getting stuck into beer and cheeses against the backdrop of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House?

Offering Quayside views (without the Quay price tag), The Squire’s Landing is one of the best pubs in Sydney CBD to indulge in batch beers, brewed on-site in their microbrewery. 

Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay Way, The Rocks

The Duke of Clarence

Nestled in an alleyway next to The Barber Shop, The Duke of Clarence offers a quintessentially British experience in the heart of the CBD. This 19th-century-inspired English tavern boasts a 500-strong line-up of spirits and British eats that tick every comfort food box. We’re talking Scotch eggs, fish finger sandwiches, ploughman’s plates and traditional roasts (Yorkies included). In winter, there’s even a smouldering fireplace! 

152-156 Clarence Street, Sydney

The Lord Nelson

Historic and trendy at once, Sydney’s oldest continuously licensed pub is also an award-winning brewery. Fittingly located in The Rocks, The Lord Nelson has an old-world English charm, harbour views, and a loyal bunch of locals.

Tuck into the pub classic beef pie with mushy peas or fish and chips while sipping on a seasonal ale and enjoying the laidback charm of one of the best pubs in Sydney CBD.

19 Kent Street, The Rocks

Sitchu Tip: For a similarly chic yet relaxed vibe, pop into The Oaks in Neutral Bay, or The Tilbury in Woolloomooloo.

The Glenmore Hotel

For some of the best harbour views and great pub grub, The Glenmore Hotel is an old favourite. A tourist hotspot, from the heritage bar downstairs to the happening rooftop, there is always a good time to be had.

To satisfy your comfort food cravings, take a bite into their classic pub food dishes like the salt and pepper squid or red wine braised lamb shanks. Delicious! 

96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks

Hotel Palisade

Hotel Palisade has a way of seducing every patron that walks through its doors leading many to say it’s one of the best pubs in Sydney thanks to the character-laden charms of the Public House on the ground floor to the plush styling of the rooftop Henry Deane.

A step back from quintessential pub fare, the Public House menu lists dishes more along the lines of the cayenne spice whitebait or beef rump soba noodle salad.

35 Bettington Street, Millers Point

Hero of Waterloo

Along with being the oldest pub in the country and heritage-listed to boot, Hero of Waterloo is one of Australia’s eeriest sites. Built by convicts, the hotel was a smuggler’s dream – they’d use a secret tunnel in the cellar to transport their goods directly to the wharf.

To this day, it’s also claimed the hotel is haunted by its former landlady, Anne Kirkman, who was thrown down the cellar steps in 1849 by her husband. It’s said her restless spirit keeps tabs on the pub and sometimes plays the piano when it’s closed for the night.

Where else can you find a pint, meal, live music and a ghost tour all at once?! 

81 Lower Fort Street, Millers Point

If you loved this edit of the best pubs in Sydney CBD and surrounding ‘burbs and are looking for more places to enjoy a drink and bite to eat, we recommend taking a peek at our edits of the best sushi trains around the CBD and the best cafes in the CBD. You’re welcome!