Introduction: Cheers to the View, Literally

If you’re reading this, you probably want to know where to sip a drink while pretending you’re in a Bond movie. Sydney’s got the goods: skyline vistas, beachfront lounges, and rooftops that make you forget you’re on the 15th floor. But let’s be real—most “best bars” lists are just a bunch of overpriced umbrellas in a pool. We’re here to cut through the noise. This guide is for the folks who want to toast to the Harbour Bridge without looking like a tourist (unless you’re proud of it, which we’re not judging).

Need custom beer for your next event or bar? Create your own brew or design a signature drink to impress your crew. Pro tip: A killer view + a killer beer = instant Instagram fame.

Why Views Matter (Even If You’re Tipsy)

Science says what? A study from Nature found that scenic environments reduce stress. Translation: You’ll forget your ex’s name faster with a drink in hand and the Sydney skyline in the background. Plus, who doesn’t want to feel like they’re in a photo from Architectural Digest while sipping a $20 cocktail? (Shhh, it’s not about the money—it’s about the ambiance.)

Bars with Views That Make Your Ex Jealous

1. The Rooftop at The Rocks (Because ‘Historic’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Boring’)

Address: 47-49 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000. Yes, this place is in the tourist trap zone, but here’s the kicker: It’s free to walk in. You can people-watch tourists taking the same selfie they’ve taken 30 times. Order a Negroni and pretend you’re James Bond. Bonus: If you’re lucky, the bartender might not know your name. Yet.

Pro Tip: Go during happy hour (4-6 PM) for discounted drinks. If you’re feeling fancy, book a private event for your squad. Trust us, the Harbour Bridge looks better from a VIP table.

2. The Beach Bar at Bondi (Because You Deserve a Tan and a Margarita)

Address: 215 Campbell Parade, Bondi. You don’t have to be a surfer to enjoy this spot. It’s Bondi, baby. The bar is right on the beach, so you can sip a gin and tonic while pretending you’re a local. Don’t be fooled by the “casual” vibe—this place is very serious about its views. The sunset here is so good, it’ll make you question why you ever bought a camera.

Pro Tip: Arrive early. The sun sets fast, and you don’t want to end up in the “shadow zone” (aka the part of the bar where the lights flicker like a bad TikTok filter).

3. Barangaroo House (Because ‘Corporate’ Can Be Chic)

Address: 1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo. This place is for the people who want their wine to match their LinkedIn profile. The view of the Harbour Bridge is so iconic, it’s practically a character in the show. The bar has a “business casual” dress code, which means you can wear your best blazer or your most comfortable jeans. Your call.

Pro Tip: Order the Barangaroo Spritz—it’s a house-made cocktail that’ll make you feel like a CEO (or at least like you know one).

Hidden Gems You’ll Never Find on Google Maps (But We’ll Tell You Anyway)

4. The Lizard Lounge (Because ‘Cozy’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Boring’)

Address: 11-13 Hunter St, Sydney. Tucked away in The Rocks, this bar is like Narnia for adults. The view isn’t skyline-level, but the vibe is so chill, you’ll forget you’re in Sydney. The menu is a mix of classic cocktails and weird experiments (looking at you, lavender-infused tequila). If you’re lucky, the bartender will give you a free sample just because.

Pro Tip: Go on a weeknight. Weekends are for influencers and their 12-person squads.

5. The Tasting Room (Because ‘Wine Bar’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Grandma’s House’)

Address: 171 George St, Sydney. This isn’t your typical wine bar—it’s a speakeasy for the modern age. The view is more about the interior design than the skyline, but the wine list is so good, it’ll make you question all your life choices. Pro tip: Ask for the sommelier’s recommendation. They know their stuff (and probably your ex’s wine preferences too).

Bars That Deserve a Standing Ovation (Even If You’re Tipsy)

6. The Balmoral Hotel Bar (Because ‘Poolside’ Means Business)

Address: 400 Crown St, Surry Hills. This bar has the vibe of a celebrity hangout—like if your friend who “knows someone who knows” was actually telling the truth. The poolside bar is where you’ll find the cool kids. The drinks are top-notch, and the view of the city makes you feel like you’ve made it (even if you’re just on vacation).

Pro Tip: Order the Surry Hill Mule. It’s a Moscow Mule with a twist of local citrus. And no, we don’t know what the twist is either.

7. The Press Hotel (Because ‘Industrial’ Can Be Fancy)

Address: 170-174 King St, Newtown. This bar has the vibe of a warehouse party meets art gallery. The view isn’t skyline-level, but the exposed brick and neon lights make it look like a scene from a movie. The craft beer selection is so good, it’ll make you question why you ever bought a six-pack from the store.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a bar crawl, contact us for group discounts. We’ll even throw in a free branded coaster for your squad.

Bars That Make You Question Your Life Choices (But in a Good Way)

8. The Ivy (Because ‘Chic’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Crowded’)

Address: 256 Oxford St, Paddington. This bar is for the people who want to feel like a celebrity without actually being one. The view of the street is so Instagrammable, it’s practically a crime. The cocktails are so good, you’ll forget you’re paying $25 for a drink. And the staff is so polite, they’ll even tell you the weather is nice (even if it’s raining).

Pro Tip: Make reservations. And maybe bring a jacket. The AC in this place could freeze a beer in seconds.

9. The Golden Age (Because ‘Retro’ Can Be Cool)

Address: 565-567 George St, Sydney. This bar is a time capsule of the 1950s. The view is more about the interior design than the skyline, but the cocktails are so well-crafted, you’ll feel like you’re in a James Bond movie. The neon lights are so bright, you’ll forget to take a photo (because you’ll be the photo).

Bars That Deserve a Standing Ovation (Even If You’re Tipsy)

10. The Longhouse (Because ‘Industrial’ Can Be Fancy)

Address: 125 Goulburn St, Sydney. This bar has the vibe of a warehouse party meets art gallery. The view isn’t skyline-level, but the exposed brick and neon lights make it look like a scene from a movie. The craft beer selection is so good, it’ll make you question why you ever bought a six-pack from the store.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a bar crawl, contact us for group discounts. We’ll even throw in a free branded coaster for your squad.

Bars That Make You Question Your Life Choices (But in a Good Way)

11. The Ivy (Because ‘Chic’ Doesn’t Mean ‘Crowded’)

Address: 256 Oxford St, Paddington. This bar is for the people who want to feel like a celebrity without actually being one. The view of the street is so Instagrammable, it’s practically a crime. The cocktails are so good, you’ll forget you’re paying $25 for a drink. And the staff is so polite, they’ll even tell you the weather is nice (even if it’s raining).

Pro Tip: Make reservations. And maybe bring a jacket. The AC in this place could freeze a beer in seconds.

12. The Golden Age (Because ‘Retro’ Can Be Cool)

Address: 565-567 George St, Sydney. This bar is a time capsule of the 1950s. The view is more about the interior design than the skyline, but the cocktails are so well-crafted, you’ll feel like you’re in a James Bond movie. The neon lights are so bright, you’ll forget to take a photo (because you’ll be the photo).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are these bars pet-friendly?

A: Only if your dog can handle a $20 cocktail and still act like a good boy. Check with the bar directly, but don’t expect a wine-tasting for your pup.

Q: Can I get a free drink if I wear a Strategies Beer shirt?

A: Absolutely. Visit our site for more details on our “Wear the Brand, Get the Drink” promotion. Because why should we be the only ones having fun?

Q: Do these bars accept cryptocurrency?

A: Only if you’re paying for the bartender’s rent. Cash or card is your best bet. And maybe a tip for the effort of pretending you’re not lost.

Conclusion: Raise a Glass to the View

There you have it—Sydney’s best bars with views that’ll make you forget you’re on the 15th floor. Whether you’re here to impress a date, avoid your ex, or just take a selfie that’s not of a kangaroo, these spots have got you covered. And hey, if you’re not in Sydney, book a virtual tour or reach out for help planning a trip. Cheers to the views, and to the drinks that make them better.

Need to sell your beer online? Use Dropt.beer to reach a wider audience. And if you’re ready to take your bar or event to the next level, let’s make it happen. Here’s to more views, more drinks, and fewer life questions.