The Best Bars in the Eastern Suburbs for a Stylish Sip
From coastal cocktails to cosy wine spots, this edit of the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs is a must-read.
When the clock strikes wine o'clock in the Eastern Suburbs, locals know where the real sip happens. Spoiled for choice with swish hangouts and impeccable beverages, this pocket is a laid-back Sydneysider's haven.
Whether winding down on the way home or staying out for a while, you'll see that this area is dotted with hidden bars, bustling beachside haunts and the occasional rooftop bar that serve up great drinks and even better vibes. Get ready to scroll for the goods and unlock the door to the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs, where the only thing sparkling more than the drinks is the banter.
Promenade Bondi Beach
Promenade Bondi Beach's Front Yard Bar is a go-to for visitors and locals alike. With sweeping views of Australia's most famous beach, it's the ideal spot for a laid-back drink. Seasonal cocktails and casual bites shine here, and these good folks got you covered with heaters and blankets if the weather turns chilly. A must-visit on the list of the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs, Front Yard Bar perfectly blends beachside relaxation with a sip-worthy experience. So, kick back, take in the beach vibes, and let Front Yard Bar be your chill oasis in the Eastern Suburbs.
Shop 4 Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach
The Wine Library
For the discerning palate, The Wine Library on Oxford Street is a top pick among the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs. Specialising in wine—350 handpicked varieties to be exact—this cosy venue exudes a sophisticated yet laid-back vibe. Take your pick: the front bar, with its romantic lighting and low-hanging lamps, the dining room, or the courtyard. It's a haven for those who appreciate the art of wine without the fuss. So, if you're keen to unwind in a place that speaks the language of grapes, The Wine Library is your understated ticket to vinous enjoyment in the Eastern Suburbs.
18 Oxford Street, Woollahra
Coogee Pavilion
Smack-bang on the shores of Coogee Beach, Coogee Pavilion is a multi-storey gem, a local haven all year round. Downstairs, indulge in pizza, gelato, and retro games (giant Scrabble, anyone?). Yet, Coogee Pavilion's standout is its rooftop. With four bars, indoor and outdoor areas, all with a Mediterranean feel and beach views, it's a cosy spot for a brew. Whether you're soaking up sunsets or enjoying a casual night out, this beachside hangout nails the relaxed vibe. An absolute go-to on our list of the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs, Coogee Pavilion is the epitome of laid-back coastal charm.
169 Dolphin Street, Coogee
El Primo Sanchez (Image Credits: Steven Woodburn)
El Primo Sanchez
El Primo Sanchez exudes a cool blend of 1940s Mexican bar vibes and a colour palette inspired by the vibrant backstreets of old Mexico City, earning its spot among the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs. At the bar, anticipate highballs like the signature Sanchez Paloma with mandarin replacing grapefruit or their twist on a classic Batanga with tequila, cola, and lime. Cocktails arrive in jarritos or traditional clay jugs, adding a touch of authenticity to your sip. With its laid-back Mexican charm, El Primo Sanchez offers a unique and stripped-back experience for those seeking a touch of the exotic in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs.
27–33 Oxford Street, Paddington
Charlie Parker’s
Nestled below Fred’s, this basement-level gem is a standout among the best bars in the Eastern Suburbs. With its speakeasy charm, dim lighting, dark woods, and leather, Charlie Parker’s creates a relaxed ambiance for a night out. The creative cocktail list, influenced by the fare upstairs, offers a produce-driven journey for the taste buds. Sip on a concoction and pair it with a delightful charcuterie board, creating the perfect harmony between drinks and bites. It's the kind of place where locals unwind, catching up on the week gone by in a minimal yet stylish setting, making it a hidden delight in the Eastern Suburbs.
Basement, 380 Oxford Street, Paddington
10 William Street
One of the best small bars in the ‘burbs, 10 William Street is cosy and lively at once. Go early to score a table (it’s a tight space), and take your time perusing the wine list: it’s long and impressive, and always evolving. If you’re in the mood to try something new, then you are the bar’s ideal customer – they will happily help you choose. Once you have decided, turn your attention to the bar menu. It is fusion at its best, but you can’t go wrong with the soft pretzels or pastas.
10 William Street, Paddington
Neighbourhood Bondi
In the heart of the Eastern Suburbs, Neighbourhood stands out among the best bars. Its inviting small bar vibe guarantees locals will bump into familiar faces. With exposed brick walls, big windows, and a retro-cool courtyard, it's the perfect setting to enjoy a good tipple; the bar offers a variety of beers, wines, and an innovative cocktail menu. The food is indulgent and moreish – think macaroni and cheese, popcorn prawns and cheesy jaffles. There are deals every day of the week, plus a roast on Sundays, so it's worth considering rallying your best mates for a cosy catch-up here.
143 Curlewis Street, Bondi
Lola's Italian & Bar
Lola's Italian & Bar in Bondi, a standout among the Eastern Suburbs' best bars, charms with its unique blend of classic Italian fare and playful ambiance. Formerly Lola's Level 1, it now radiates a 100% Italian experience, all thanks to Marco Ambrosino and Manny Spinola. Chef Toby Stansfield's menu offers classic Italian delights, and Mon Ditbunjong's wine list is a tribute to Italy's best. With a relaxed setting adorned by Pina Ambrosino's art, Lola's beckons locals for a laid-back evening. It's more than a bar; it's a sensory haven with Euro disco tunes, small plates, and creative cocktails.
Level 1, 180-186 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach, Bondi
Coogee Wine Room
For Eastern Suburbs locals seeking a laid-back hangout, Coogee Wine Room is a standout among the best bars. With a relaxed vibe and a Mediterranean-inspired menu, it's the ideal spot to unwind. Head Chef Greg Humphry crafts a menu that invites sharing, making it perfect for a casual hangout with friends. The communal dining experience, paired with a 600-plus wine list, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Whether dropping by for a glass or indulging in their legendary steak, Coogee Wine Room offers a sophisticated yet unpretentious setting for locals looking to enjoy good company in a welcoming bar atmosphere.
222 Coogee Bay Road, Coogee
The Roosevelt
For Eastern Suburbs locals with a taste for history in their hangouts, The Roosevelt is a standout among the best bars. Dating back to 1943, this spot has an intriguing past, once frequented by American servicemen and later earning Abe Saffron the title "The King of the Cross" in 1947. While its creative methods led to a temporary shutdown, The Roosevelt has since reopened in 2012, paying homage to its original glamour. Nestled in Potts Point, it transports you to 1950s New York with a vibrant atmosphere, great company, and unforgettable drinks. It's not just a bar; it's a sip into the glamorous side of the past.
32 Orwell Street, Potts Point
If you enjoyed our edit of the best bars in the Eastern suburbs and fancy a few more local recommendations, you can check out the best news bars in Sydney here and the best new restaurants here.
