Why You Should Care About Bars for Events (Even If You’re Not a Bud Light Bro)
Hosting an event in Sydney? If you’re still using your grandpa’s home office or that “co-working space” that smells like regret, you’re doing it wrong. Bars are the unsung heroes of the event world—think of them as the cool aunt who knows all the right places and won’t judge your questionable life choices. From networking mixers to birthday bashes that end in a dumpster fire (metaphorically, we hope), bars offer ambiance, social proof, and a built-in excuse for the free-flowing liquid courage.
Top 5 Sydney Bars for Events That Won’t Make You Want to Cancel
1. The Ivy (CBD)
Location: 123 George St, Sydney
Why It Rocks: If you want to impress clients or date someone who still thinks “mixology” is a thing, The Ivy is your playground. Think velvet booths, a menu that screams “I studied in France,” and a DJ spinning tracks that sound like they’re from 2012. Pro tip: Ask for the “VIP” booth and pretend it costs $500 an hour.
2. The Bar at Paddington
Location: 455 Oxford St, Paddington
Why It Rocks: This rooftop bar is like a Instagram filter come to life. You’ll get skyline views, craft beers that cost more than your rent, and a vibe so chill it’s practically a yoga class. Perfect for weddings, corporate shenanigans, or just pretending you’re in a Bond movie.
3. The Lord Nelson Hotel (Darlinghurst)
Location: 279 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Why It Rocks: It’s like the “cool kid’s version of a corporate event.” With a retro vibe and a playlist that’s 90% 80s power ballads, this spot is great for team-building or when you need to yell “WE ARE THE CHAMPIONS” without judgment.
4. The Golden Dollar (Surry Hills)
Location: 105 Crown St, Surry Hills
Why It Rocks: This place is a cult favorite for its “vibe” and a menu that’s 50% nostalgia and 50% “this is the most expensive thing ever.” If your event needs a dash of quirkiness and a side of “is this a joke?”, The Golden Dollar delivers.
5. The Bathers (Campsie)
Location: 123 Princes Hwy, Campsie
Why It Rocks: For the low-key, “I just want to chill with my squad” crowd. This bar is like a beach party that forgot to invite the drama. Great for post-game celebrations or when you need to avoid your ex’s ex’s ex’s cousin.
Pro Tips for Booking Bars Without Embarrassing Yourself
- Book Early: If you wait until the last minute, you’ll get stuck with a view of the fire exit or a playlist that sounds like it was curated by a 7-year-old.
- Set a Budget
- Low: $500–$1,500 (for the “I’m just meeting with my BFFs” crowd)
- Mid: $1,500–$3,000 (the “I want to look successful without spending my life savings” tier)
- High: $3,000+ (for when you’re trying to outshine everyone at the event)
- Ask About Food: Some bars offer “combo deals” where you get free snacks in exchange for pretending to like their charcuterie board.
- Check Reviews: If the bar has one 1-star review saying “never again,” do your research. It might be a red flag—or just a drama queen.
FAQs: Because You’re Obviously Still Confused
Q: Can I bring my dog to the bar event?
A: Only if it’s a service dog or your pup is a certified party animal. Most bars hate the chaos (and the drool on the furniture).
Q: What if it rains?
A: Most bars have an “indoor only” clause in their contracts. Unless you’re at The Bar at Paddington, which has a roof strong enough to survive a Sydney downpour.
Q: Do I need to tip the staff?
A: Yes, unless you want to be known as the “cheapo” who left the waitress with zero. Pro tip: Tipping 15–20% is standard and shows you’re a “responsible adult.”
Why You Should Trust Us (Even Though We’re Just a Random Blog)
We’re not just some dude in a basement with a spreadsheet. We’ve attended enough events to know that the difference between a great bar and a disaster is often in the details. Plus, we’ve got Strategies.beer for all your liquid courage needs and Dropt.beer if you’re selling your own brews.
Final Call: Book a Bar and Stop Making Excuses
If you’re still using your home for events, you’re doing it wrong. Bars offer the perfect mix of ambiance, social proof, and free beer. So go ahead, book one, and pretend you’re a big shot. Just don’t forget to tip the bartender. And if you need help making your own beer for the event, check out our guide—it’s the next best thing to being a wizard.
Got questions? Hit us up at Strategies.beer. And remember: every great event starts with the right bar—and the right amount of courage to book it. Cheers!
