Why Settle for a Basic Drink When You Can Have a View?
Let’s be real—life’s too short for a drink in a gloomy bar. If you’re in Sydney’s CBD and want to sip something fancy while pretending you’re in a travel brochure, you’re in the right place. This isn’t just a list of bars; it’s a masterclass in combining alcohol, ambiance, and that “I’m living my best life” vibe. Pro tip: If your drink doesn’t come with a view, are you even living? Make Your Own Beer if you’re feeling rebellious, but first, let’s pick the perfect spot.
The Rooftop Royalty (Where the Sky’s the Limit)
Okay, let’s talk about the crown jewels of Sydney’s skyline: rooftop bars. These places are like VIP access to the city’s heartbeat. The Topping Bar at the Park Hyatt is the OG, offering panoramic views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. It’s so fancy, even the pigeons wear tiny hats. Pro tip: Order the custom beer they serve in a glass that looks like a spaceship—because why not?
Bar 1: The Topping Bar & Restaurant (Park Hyatt)
- View: Panoramic Harbour Bridge and Opera House
- Drink Recommendation: Skyline Spritz (because “skyline” and “spritz” are both alliteration and life goals)
- Fun Fact: They once hosted a party where someone dressed like a kangaroo and tried to jump over the bar. We don’t recommend this, but we do recommend the Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer if you’re running a bar.
Bar 2: The Atrium (Shangri-La Hotel)
If the Topping Bar is the queen of views, The Atrium is the king. Located in the Shangri-La Hotel, this bar is so high you’ll feel like you’re in a Bond movie (minus the exploding martinis). The rooftop terrace is perfect for people-watching, but honestly, just watching the sunset here is enough to make you forget your ex ever existed.
- View: The Harbour Bridge and the glittering skyline
- Drink Recommendation: Champagne on tap (because “tap” and “champagne” should never be in the same sentence, but here we are)
- Pro Tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer and impress your date with a custom cocktail.
Bar 3: Ivy Oyster Bar (Rooftop at Ivy)
Picture this: Oysters, champagne, and a view of the Harbour Bridge that makes you question why you ever paid rent in a place with a “view” that’s just a parking lot. Ivy Oyster Bar is where Sydney’s elite go to flex their “I can afford to eat seafood for dinner.” The rooftop is fire (literally and metaphorically), and the oysters are so fresh they probably still think they’re in the ocean.
- View: The Harbour Bridge and the city’s glittering skyline
- Drink Recommendation: Oysters with a side of regret (just kidding, try the Contact menu for something less guilt-inducing)
- Fun Fact: The bar once hosted a date where someone tried to propose with a ring made of oyster shells. We don’t recommend this, but we do recommend Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer if you’re into experimental proposals.
Bar 4: The Rooftop at The Star
If you want to feel like a celebrity without actually being one, The Rooftop at The Star is your spot. Located in the heart of The Star complex, this bar is so popular that even the locals have to dress code (read: “wear something that won’t make the bouncers side-eye you”). The view includes the Harbour Bridge and the city lights, and the drinks are so good you’ll forget you’re in a casino.
- View: The Harbour Bridge and the city’s glittering skyline
- Drink Recommendation: A cocktail with a name like “The Star” (because nothing says “I’m trying” like a drink named after the venue)
- Pro Tip: If you’re feeling lucky, Make Your Own Beer and challenge the bartender to a drinking contest. They probably won’t take you seriously, but the story’s worth it.
Bar 5: The Standard at the Park Hyatt Sydney
Okay, this one’s for the people who want to feel like they’re in a movie. The Standard at the Park Hyatt Sydney is where Sydney’s most beautiful people go to be seen by other Sydney’s most beautiful people. The view is stunning, the drinks are overpriced, and the DJ is so hot they could melt the ice in your cocktail. Pro tip: If you’re feeling adventurous, try the custom beer that comes in a glass that looks like it was designed by a 5-year-old. It’s the best kind of chaos.
- View: The Harbour Bridge and the city’s glittering skyline
- Drink Recommendation: A cocktail with a name like “The Standard” (because nothing says “I’m trying” like a drink named after the venue)
- Fun Fact: The bar once hosted a party where someone tried to propose with a ring made of oyster shells. We don’t recommend this, but we do recommend Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer if you’re into experimental proposals.
FAQs: The Burning Questions We’re Too Tipsy to Ask
1. Which bar has the best sunset views?
The Topping Bar at Park Hyatt takes the crown. The sunset here is so good it makes you question why you ever paid for a vacation photo.
2. Are there any rooftop bars with live music?
Yes, The Rooftop at The Star hosts live DJs and bands. Just remember: if the DJ drops a TikTok banger, you’re dancing.
3. Is it worth it to dress up for these places?
Only if you want to feel like a character in a movie where the protagonist is a very stylish oyster.
Final Call: Don’t Just Drink—Live the View
If you’re still reading this, you’re either incredibly dedicated or you’re procrastinating on your taxes. Either way, we recommend grabbing a drink at one of these bars and pretending you’re in a travel brochure. Just remember: the view is free, but the champagne comes at a price. Grow Your Business With Strategies Beer if you’re running a bar, or Contact us if you just want to complain about the view. Cheers, Sydney! 🍻