Subscribe
Subscribe
The Best Bars in the Sutherland Shire for a Swish Sip
The Sutherland Shire's best bars deliver on all fronts, from cosy speakeasies to tropical cocktail havens.
There’s a reason the people of ‘The Shire’, as it is affectionately known, are renowned for not getting very far from the enclave of their region. With Cronulla’s glittering beaches and the Royal National Park on their doorstep, alongside a bevvy of restaurants, cafes and bars, there’s very little reason to. As for visitors, there’s plenty to keep them coming back for more.
Whilst the bar scene in the Sutherland Shire has historically been rather traditional, a string of new openings has injected new life into the after dark-scene here. Whether you’re looking for a cozy nook with boatloads of by-the-glass options, or a traditional Irish snug, you’ll find it all down South in this cruisey corner of Sydney. Discover your new local (or somewhere to make a night of it!) with our edit of the best bars in the Sutherland Shire.
Meadow
Cronulla’s nightlife scene just got a very stylish new add. From the team behind Bobbys, Meadow is a new music room, bar and bistro designed for everything from lazy long lunches and aperitivo hour through to cocktails, DJs and late nights. Housed inside the former Papa J’s site, the venue pairs European-inspired bistro plates with a sharp wine list, classic cocktails and live music that evolves throughout the day in line with the mood. Expect raw tuna with bergamot, baked rigatoni vodka sauce, cheeseburgers with café de Paris butter and jazz-fuelled afternoons, all wrapped up in a warm, sunset-toned space. Very chic!
Shop 7, 2/6 Cronulla St, Cronulla NSW 2230
Duke’s After Hours
Luxury grocer and specialty sandwich store by day, intimate wine bar by night, Duke’s After Hours, (formerly Fred’s) is the perfect place to hole up with a glass of wine and a good friend. An extensive wine list, with 16 varieties plus Ruinart champagne available by the glass, sets the scene. Caviar crumpets, house-baked focaccia and dry-aged bistecca are just a few of the delights gracing the menu.
109 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Summer Salt
Perched right on the sand at Cronulla, Summer Salt is one of the Shire’s most iconic spots for sunset drinks and long lunches by the ocean. The breezy bar and restaurant serves up fresh seafood, crisp cocktails and panoramic water views that make it hard to leave once you’ve settled in. It’s the kind of place that instantly feels like a holiday, even if you’re only there for one drink.
66 Mitchell Rd, Cronulla NSW 2230
Skeeta’s Southside
This no-frills local favourite is always buzzing. Head on in for live music every weekend whilst you sample your way through the tap beer, wine, cocktails and tapas plates.
Shop 7/544-546 Box Road, Jannali
Loving this Edit of the Best Bars in the Sutherland Shire? You Might Also Like…
The Blind Bear
If you’re looking for a low-lit nook to while away the wee hours with pals, The Blind Bear has everything you need — expertly crafted cocktails, eleven craft beers on tap and American-style fare.
28 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
The Snug Bar
The perfectly poured pint of Guinness awaits at the bustling The Snug Bar. Keeping it simple, the only food they do here is bags of Ireland’s favourite crisps and cheese toasties. We’re not complaining though. Full of good cheer, you’ll rarely glimpse a quiet night here. They don’t take bookings, so be sure to arrive nice and early should you like a seat.
Shop 3, 752-758 Kingsway, Gymea
Cronulla RSL
There’s little wonder this oceanfront spot is a favourite for revellers of all ages. Views out across South Cronulla, paired with recently renovated spaces, elevate Cronulla above your everyday RSL. You’ll find bars spread across multiple levels, with indoor and outdoor seating aplenty. They’re always hosting events, live music and well-priced drinks specials so be sure to keep an eye on their socials to get the most bang for your buck.
38 Gerrale Street, Cronulla
Cony’s
Tucked down Surf Lane, one street back from the beach, Cony’s is always buzzing — even midweek. Swing by for a menu of South American classics, from ceviche to empanadas, as well as an impeccable cocktail menu including a full page of tequila.
Sitchu Tip: Cony’s bottomless brunch is a favourite with locals with bottomless classic margs, Aperol spritz and sangria all on the cards.
13 Surf Lane, Cronulla
Low & Lofty’s
Looking for something lively? This tropical cocktail haunt will deliver. Vibes are always high at Low & Lofty’s where the cocktail menu focuses on rum, mojitos and various jugs of sangria. And when you find yourself peckish? Dive into their Caribbean/Texan BBQ-inspired menu. For the night owl’s, Low & Lofty’s is open until 1:30am on Friday and Saturday nights, with DJs spinning 80s, 90s and old-school house bangers.
51A Cronulla Street, Cronulla
If you loved this edit of the Sutherland Shire’s best bars and would like to discover more about this beloved region, be sure to check out our edits of the best restaurants and cafes in town.
