2024's Best New Bars in Sydney for Cocktails & Good Times

The late-night scene in Sydney is undergoing the resurgence it deserves and naturally, it involves a swathe of new and exciting venues making their debuts. 2023 saw variety and abundance and 2024 is heading in the same direction. Huzzah! 

From artsy musical haunts to afternoon aperitivo bars, there's somewhere new to head every week. So gather the gang and make your way through this edit of the best new bars in Sydney where you might just find your new local. 

The Hook

Some combinations stand the test of time and that's surely the case for live piano, oysters and cold martinis. Inspired by the old-school oyster bars of New Orleans and San Francisco, The Hook has brought this classic blend to the heart of Kings Cross. Enjoy indoor and outdoor seating, impeccable retro vibes and nautical design elements. Pure delight. 

13-15 Bayswater Road, Kings Cross 

JAM Record Bar (Image Credit: Chad Konik) 

JAM Record Bar

What happens when 15,000 vinyl records meet a menu of Japanese-inspired snacks and jazzy cocktails? A very, very good time indeed. The latest addition to George Street's ivy precinct, JAM Record Bar is a homage to the low-key listening bars of Tokyo. You'll find every genre, era and artist amongst the collection as well as pink plywood walls and an all-round cruisey atmosphere. 

320C George Street, Sydney 

Lumière on Thirty Five

Your new late-night go-to has arrived thanks to this stunning new sky-high venue in the heart of Darling Harbour, Lumière on Thirty Five boasts breathtaking views of the sparkling Sydney skyline in an intimate and luxurious setting.

Expect world-class cocktails courtesy of expert mixologists who fuse innovative methods with classic techniques, and delectable desserts inspired by the very best of French cuisine  

12 Darling Drive, Sydney

Pleasure Club 

Live music is a thing to be cherished and that's exactly what Pleasure Club, the newest hospitality venue from Odd Culture Group, aims to deliver. The late-night, cutting-edge cocktail bar is an inclusive space where you can escape the world for a hot minute and delve into the fever-dream revelry of performance and experimental concoctions. Find the glowing purple eye on Newtown's Wilson Street, descend the staircase and discover an unmatched late-night entertainment experience with plush booths, nooks and crannies to hide away in and a corner pool table. The state-of-the-art cocktail lab is worth a try, with a seasonal cocktail program that changes cyclically. The debut story, 'Nostalgia Machine', hones in on the essence of growing up in Australia with creations like Mr Whippy, Cheese TV and even Vegemite.

6 Wilson Street, Newtown 

Snack Kitchen 

Celebrating the beauty in simplicity, Snack Kitchen combines lo-fi vibes with artisanal bites and a drinks list to die for. Presented by father and son duo, Mauric and Sylvester Terzini, the venture is an homage to their childhoods and cultural upbringings. As the name suggests, Snack Kitchen's menu is comprised largely of small plates so it's the perfect spot to drop in for a catch-up without the pressure. For those after something small with their afternoon drop, a selection of lupini, anchovies and fired and pickled peanuts are just the ticket. If you're looking for something more substantial, carpaccio, polpetti and sliced meats will sort you out. As for drinks, the focus will revolve around Italo/Euro classics - aperitif, spritz, negronis and the like, alongside European and Australian wines. 

95 Macleay Street, Potts Point

The Caterpillar Club 

Easily one of the most exciting venue openings of the year, The Caterpillar Club is the latest drop from one of our favourite hospitality groups, Swillhouse. This late-night venue is the place to be with one of the largest private record collections in the world and snacks being served until 3am. Swing by to soak up moody interiors, world-class cocktails and incredible retro bites. 

92 Pitt Street, Sydney 

The Waratah 

Anyone who thinks Australia has no culture need only to swing by The Waratah for a hefty dose of it. The two-storey drinking den prioritises native produce, seasonality and a connection with their local suppliers. Pop in to the downstairs public bar for a casual afternoon beverage or head upstairs for something a splash fancier. We recommend guzzling down an on-tap Waratah Spritz (made from Archie Rose vodka, rhubi mistelle, watermelon wine and vanilla) whilst you're there. As for food, lobster rolls, potato scallops and fairy ice cream sandwiches are just a few of the 'fun Australiana' dishes up for grabs. 

308-310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst 

If knowing all about the best new bars in Sydney is your thing, we have just the articles for you to read! From bars with beautiful interiors and rooftop oases, to underground hangouts and romantic  date spots, we've got you covered.