Sydney’s Best Party Venues to Celebrate the Night Away

In theory, throwing a party is a great idea (whether it's a birthday party, a hens, an engagement party or any other kind of special shindig). In practice, however, the actual organising process can sometimes rob you of being pampered in the way you truly deserve.

Why go through the torture of hosting a big bash when you’re the one who is deserving of celebration? Leave the cooking, cleaning, sprucing and tidying to others so that all you need to worry about is finding an amazing outfit, rocking up and having fun.

Whatever the tone of the night you want to set — be it an intimate group dinner, a low-key pub bash or a fully-fledged cocktail party, there's something for every desire. So grab your gang and get set to thoroughly revel at one of Sydney’s Sitchu-approved best party venues. 

Maybe Sammy

If it's good enough for Margot Robbie, well it's good enough for us! The Aussie actor recently turned to trendy cocktail bar Maybe Sammy to help launch her gin brand and it's easy to see why. This is the ultimate party venue. 

With an award-winning bartending team, you can look forward to exceptional hotel bar-style service, interiors influenced by 1950s Hollywood and Vegas glamour, and a cocktail list that oozes elegance. 

The Hollywood Regency-meets-Palm Springs design screams 1950s glamour; think classic elegance with a splash of extravagance. Bold lighting enhances pink and green velvet on the walls, smoked mirrors, brass fittings and marble tiles catch the eye, while indoor trees and pink tropical wallpaper remind you, you’re here to have fun.

115 Harrington Street, The Rocks 

MANTA

Sitting pretty on Sydney Harbour, MANTA is a lush, spacious restaurant that suits all your party needs. This waterside spot is high on our list of Sydney’s best restaurants for its delectable cuisine and extensive wine list. They boast a prime Woolloomooloo Wharf location and artisanal produce and that pay homage to the best of local land and sea offerings.

If you're looking for a birthday party venue in Sydney for brunch under the warm sun and cool breeze, the terrace might just be the spot for you. Meanwhile, MANTA's light-filled, semi-private spaces make for a stylish engagement party venue in Sydney. Either way, you will be delighted to stunning harbour views.

6/6 Cowper Wharf Roadway, Woolloomooloo

Manly Pavillion 

When it comes to dazzling locations, it doesn't get better than this heritage-listed venue, which is run by The Boathouse Group. The interiors have been decked out in the trademark Boathouse style - think bright and bold wallpaper, shell mirrors, floating glass buoys, fresh flowers galore and crab baskets - which creates an uplifting coastal, beach-like atmosphere. While the inside is a visual feast for the eyes, the outside terrace is just as special thanks to its magical views of Manly Harbour. 

Manly Pavillion, which opened in 2022 after undergoing extensive renovations, is the perfect setting for a birthday party or special event (honestly, there's so much dance floor space) and it boasts a fresh menu with a focus on modern Australian food and seafood.  They have two spacious rooms that are available for venue hire and no matter what area you pick, it's going to be vibe central. 

West Esplanade

Balsa

Balsa knows how to bring it on every single front. Good vibes? Tick. Gorgeous location just a stone's throw from Freshwater Beach? Tick. An amazing yet affordable tasting menu that's ideal for a special occasion? You guessed it... big tick.   

Located within the newly revamped Hardbord Hilton Hotel, Balsa's buzzing atmosphere means you can be as loud as you like and no one will look twice. After your meal (our top picks include the Balsa lobster roll with salt and vinegar chips, the lemon and paprika rotisserie chicken with wood-fired baby carrots and rosemary gravy and the miso eggplant with lemon yogurt, summer leaf and sesame), you can mosey down to the pub's courtyard which is always popping off.

Don't hesitate to book it as an engagement party venue in Sydney, too. It has a chic yet casual vibe that'll make your celebration relaxed but feel extra special.

29 Moore Road, Freshwater

The Dolphin Hotel

The Dolphin Hotel is probably Sydney's best party venue for every occasion. Want a glam meal? Visit the Dolphin's Dining Room. A snack and wine wind-down high on your agenda? The Side Bar has sleek fare down to a tee. Naturally, the Public Bar keeps things casual and lets the pub title stick while a mean-looking woodfire pizza oven churns out heavenly discs hour after hour. If all your mates are in town on your born day, then it's almost imperative to book this Sydney birthday party venue or just turn up with your crew and let the Dolphin do the entertaining.

412 Crown Street, Surry Hills

East Village Hotel

For those in search of a stylish soiree overlooking Sydney's skyline, the East Village Hotel emerges as one of the city's best party venues. The rooftop terrace, a chic pub oasis, offers a semi-private dining room, accommodating up to 20 guests. With a vibe that seamlessly blends contemporary cool with classic charm, it's the ideal spot to take in the city lights. And when the sun dips below the horizon, the Athletic Club on the level below beckons—a vintage haven adorned with leather-clad chesterfields, creating the perfect ambience for a laid-back yet refined gathering. It's unquestionably among the best party venues in Sydney.

234 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst

Babylon

Decked out in dusky pinks, distressed sandstone, abundant greenery and timber, juxtaposed against silky and velvety upholstery, sprawling Middle Eastern-inspired restaurant Babylon is as decadent as they come. 

Inspired by the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, sip on mimosas and enjoy a chef’s selection of mezze featuring classic Mediterranean plates and flavours such as homemade falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, woodfired chicken skewers and delicious Turkish Delight. Kitted out with a restaurant, two large bars, a wood-fired kitchen, indoor-outdoor dining, a large outdoor terrace, and multiple private and semi-private dining spaces, this has epic birthday bash written all over it. 

Level 7, Westfield Sydney, Pitt Street, Sydney

The KittyHawk

In the heart of Phillip Lane, KittyHawk isn't just a spot for cocktails; it's a local treasure and one of the best party venues in Sydney. Since its doors swung open in 2016, this joint has been wooing the crowd with its post-WWII Parisian vibes and a cocktail menu that knows its rye from its rum. If you're into an intimate soirée, snag a reservation for a table. For those after a bigger bash, KittyHawk's got you covered. The elegant Conservatory caters for up to 24 seated or 100 for a cocktail shindig. The Officer's Mess? It's your go-to for hosting 64 seated or 150 standing—now that's a party!

16 Phillip Lane, Sydney

Hotel Ravesis

In the heart of Bondi, Hotel Ravesis reigns as one of Sydney's best party venues, offering a venue for every celebration size. With a fusion of European vibes and mid-century Miami flair, this pink-hued gem brings an Aussie twist to Mediterranean classics, all complemented by an extensive wine and cocktail selection. The diverse spaces make party planning a breeze; they're a solid choice for a cool birthday party venue in Sydney. Hotel Ravesis seamlessly combines style, substance, and a touch of Bondi beachside charm for an effortlessly cool celebration.

118 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach

The Tilbury 

For those seeking laid-back harbourside festivities, The Tilbury hotel stands out as one of Sydney's best party venues. Embracing a no-fuss pub style, it offers seven versatile spaces for gatherings of up to 100 people. The impressive drinks list keeps the good times flowing, with cocktails adding a lively touch to the celebration. Serving up a mix of pub classics and seafood delights, the venue ensures everyone's bellies stay satisfied, and the spirits remain high. Whether it's a birthday bash or engagement soirée, this spot effortlessly combines waterfront vibes with casual elegance for an easygoing and memorable affair.

12-18 Nicholson Street, Woolloomooloo

The Newport

A Northern Beaches favourite, The Newport is one of Justin Hemmes’ most notable waterfront offerings. Nestled on the shores of Pittwater the sprawling venue is perfect for a sizeable, lavish affair, as well as offering secluded spots for more intimate celebrations. With the Seafood Market, The Shack, The Kiosk and Vinnie’s Pizza all serving delectable eats, there is something for everyone. 

Can’t find a babysitter? Fear not, The Newport provides an indoor kids' area with badminton, ping-pong tables and a giant magnetic scrabble board, the kids will be completely occupied and surrounded with uber-chic, retro styling that is just begging for adorable Instagram shots. It's a solid choice as an engagement party venue in Sydney!

2 Kalinya Street, Newport

Coogee Pavilion

Another winning Merival masterpiece, Coogee Pavillion also boasts a mean children’s play area — making your celebrations a total breeze. Aside from a picturesque birthday party venue in Sydney, it also offers simple, sharing plates that dominate the scene, with pizzas, seafood, salads and bar snacks available so you won’t go hungry. If kids aren’t a determining factor for you, head up to the adults-only Rooftop and make it the ultimate engagement party venue in Sydney as you take in sweeping views across the Coogee shoreline while indulging in a tipple or two. Contact the Merivale team directly if you’re keen to reserve an area.

169 Dolphin Street, Coogee

Hotel Palisade

Hotel Palisade of the city's rapidly gentrified Millers Point is the best party venue in Sydney to pop a bottle (or two!) of bubbly. With three spaces available to book for functions of 10 to 50 people with catering and table service available, the hotel makes entertaining easy. Sliders and croquettes, sit alongside gravlax salmon and tuna tartare crostini, giving the menu a distinctly modern Australian edge with accessible dishes available as canapés to please even the pickiest. 

Interiors designed by Sibella Court are sleek and warm and the Rooftop cocktail bar Henry Deane is the perfect place to indulge in a birthday nightcap before settling into one of the Hotel’s nine boutique suites.

35 Bettington Street, Millers Point

Hyde Hacienda Sydney

Not so keen on an all-out party this year? Take it easy and gather the clan for a few drinks at Hyde Hacienda in Circular Quay. It's a savvy choice among Sydney's best party venues. With views spanning the Ferry Wharves, Harbour Bridge, and Opera House, it boasts some of the city's best sights for a post-work cocktail rendezvous with your nearest and dearest. Semi-private spaces are available with fusion-inspired food menus perfect for grazing. Hyde Hacienda strikes the right balance for those seeking a laid-back yet memorable celebration in the heart of Sydney.

Level 3, 61 Macquarie Street, Sydney

Restaurant Hubert

If a sophisticated, intimate dinner is all your heart desires on your day of birth, grab a table at Restaurant Hubert. Accepting reservations for groups of six or more, the French restaurant takes the cake for old-world opulence styling with wood-panelling and ruffled drapes and a baby piano to boot.

Classic brasserie dishes go down a treat with swathes of French wines by the glass, half-bottle, bottle and magnum, while cocktails are of the classic variety. With a charmingly romantic soundtrack comprised solely of jazz crooners, pick your date wisely and you’ll no doubt be the recipient of a birthday smooch.

15 Bligh Street, Sydney

Bibo Wine Bar

Very chic, very Double Bay; Bibo Wine Bar stands as a local favourite and one of Sydney's best party venues, catering to both birthday and engagement celebrations. This chic spot embodies the Double Bay vibe, making it a memorable birthday or engagement party venue in Sydney. With a curated selection of about 150 Aussie wines and delectable Mediterranean and Portuguese share plates, Bibo sets the stage for an elegant affair. Whether it's a sit-down long lunch or a chic evening celebration, Bibo Wine Bar seamlessly blends opulence with a laid-back charm, making it the go-to choice for those seeking a refined yet relaxed party experience!

7 Bay Street, Double Bay

The Royal Hotel

Embodying inner-city chic with a Paddington twist, The Royal stakes its claim among Sydney's best party venues, fitting seamlessly for both birthday and engagement celebrations. This smart-casual haven invites revellers to kick off the festivities at the top-floor Elephant Bar and Rooftop for sunset drinks, followed by a descent to the Verandah for an elegant celebration with a menu to please every palate. The Royal's charm lies not just in its ambience but also in the personalised touch, with the events team ready to curate a bespoke experience for your next birthday bash or engagement party.

Five Ways, 2237 Glenmore Road, Paddington

Mimi's

Joining Sydney's best party venues is Mimi's, a Merivale baby that effortlessly captures the coastal cool vibe, making it a prime choice for both birthday and engagement celebrations. With arched windows framing ever-changing views of the seasons and tides, this spot boasts a Mediterranean soul curated by Executive Chef Jordan Toft. Mimi's provides an ideal backdrop for a sophisticated celebration, where guests can immerse themselves in the unique sense of place. And to keep the party going, post-meal cocktails at Will's, alongside those mesmerizing views, add the perfect finishing touch. Elevate your next event with Mimi's laid-back coastal charm and panoramic perfection.

Coogee Pavilion, Middle Level, 130A Beach Street, Coogee

OTTO

Nestled on the Finger Wharf at Woolloomooloo, OTTO effortlessly claims its spot among Sydney's best party venues, delivering a dose of la dolce vita with an approachable, refined twist. Celebrating over 22 years as a local darling, OTTO's reputation is as solid as its One Hat from the 2023 Good Food Guide. Ideal for a laid-back engagement party venue in Sydney, its modern Italian flair, al fresco charm, and waterside views set the stage for memorable celebrations. If you're looking to switch things up on your birthday, OTTO also makes for a refreshing choice to host a brunch here. 

Area 8, 6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo

NOUR

If you're not keen on throwing a big bash and instead your penchant lies in an elevated celebration, NOUR stands out as one of the best party venues in Sydney. This Lebanese haven, blending classic flavours with a modern twist, provides the perfect backdrop for birthday and engagement celebrations. With an interior that seamlessly merges contemporary aesthetics with cultural charm, NOUR offers a fresh take on Lebanese cuisine. Executive Chef Paul Farag and Head Chef Gianluca Lonati craft a menu that goes beyond the expected, teasing out the full potential of classic Lebanese flavours. Elevate your party game at NOUR, where innovation meets tradition for an unmissable celebration in Sydney.

Shop 3, 490 Crown Street, Surry Hills

Getting excited to plan your next event at one of these cool Sydney party venues? For your next big dinner, check out our round-up of Sydney's best restaurants for group dining, and if you want a foolproof dinner to impress your mates, here are the best hatted restaurants in Sydney you shouldn't miss.