Sydney's drinking scene reaches its peak when paired with spectacular views. From historic rooftop pubs to revolving restaurants and iconic harbor-side bars, these venues offer world-class cocktails with unforgettable vistas.
The Glenmore Hotel
Location: 96 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
Type: Historic rooftop bar
Views: Harbour Bridge, Opera House, Circular Quay, and 360° panoramic harbor views
Description: A heritage-listed hotel from the 1840s with a modern rooftop bar offering some of Sydney's most iconic views. The rooftop terrace provides unobstructed vistas of the harbor's most famous landmarks.
Vibe: Historic pub atmosphere downstairs, relaxed rooftop bar upstairs with spectacular views
Highlights:
- 360° rooftop views including Opera House and Harbour Bridge
- Heritage-listed building with character and history
- Outdoor rooftop terrace (weather permitting)
- Sunset viewing is particularly spectacular
- Pizza and pub food available
- Located in historic Rocks neighborhood
Best for: Sunset drinks, 360° rooftop harbor views, combining with The Rocks exploration
Tips: Arrive before sunset to secure a rooftop spot, weekends get busy, combine with The Rocks weekend markets
O Bar and Dining
Location: Level 47, Australia Square, 264 George Street, Sydney CBD
Type: Revolving restaurant and bar
Height: Level 47 - one of Sydney's highest dining experiences
Views: 360° rotating panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and entire city skyline
Description: A truly unique experience - Sydney's only revolving restaurant and bar. The venue completes a full 360° rotation every 105 minutes, offering constantly changing views of the entire city and harbor.
Experience: Complete rotation every 105 minutes - see the entire city without moving from your seat
Highlights:
- Constantly changing 360° views as the room slowly rotates
- Opera House, Harbour Bridge, Blue Mountains, and Pacific Ocean all visible
- Elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions
- Floor-to-ceiling windows maximizing views
- Premium cocktail menu
- Fine dining menu available
Best for: Special occasion drinks or dining, unique revolving experience, spectacular 360° views, romantic evening
Notes:
- Bookings essential, particularly for dinner service
- Bar seating available for drinks without full dining reservation
- Sunset timing is particularly popular
- Smart casual dress code
- Premium pricing but unforgettable experience
Tips: Book well in advance for sunset/dinner, bar-only visits are more flexible, allow full 105 minutes to enjoy complete rotation
Opera Bar
Location: Lower Concourse Level, Sydney Opera House
Type: Outdoor bar and restaurant
Phone: (02) 9051 1292
Email: hello@applejackhospitality.com.au
Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11am to late, Friday-Saturday 11am to 12am
Views: Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Harbour from the Opera House forecourt
Description: Sydney's most iconic bar location - literally on the steps of the Opera House. Outdoor seating with direct harbor and bridge views, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
Vibe: Bustling, iconic location, casual outdoor atmosphere, live music 7 days a week
Highlights:
- Prime position on Sydney Opera House forecourt
- Harbour Bridge views across the water
- Live music performances 7 days a week
- Outdoor seating with harbor breezes
- Full restaurant menu available
- Multiple bar areas and seating zones
Booking Policy: Walk-ins only (lunch bookings Monday-Thursday for 4+ people only)
Best for: Casual drinks at an iconic location, pre or post Opera House show, harbor views, live music
Tips: Arrive early to secure harbor-view seating, stunning at sunset, combines perfectly with Opera House visit or Circular Quay walk
Old Mate's Place
Location: Level 4, 199 Clarence Street, Sydney CBD
Type: Rooftop bar and restaurant
Views: City skyline views from elevated rooftop position
Description: A relaxed Australian-style rooftop bar in the heart of the CBD. Laid-back atmosphere with city views, perfect for after-work drinks or casual evening out.
Vibe: Relaxed Australian pub atmosphere with elevated rooftop setting
Highlights:
- CBD rooftop setting with city views
- Relaxed, unpretentious atmosphere
- Australian pub food and share plates
- Good beer and cocktail selection
- Less touristy than harbor-view options
- Popular with locals and after-work crowd
Cuisine: Australian pub food, share plates, burgers, classic pub fare
Best for: Casual after-work drinks, relaxed rooftop atmosphere, authentic local pub vibe, less touristy option
Tips: Good option if harbor-view bars are too crowded, more affordable than premium view venues, check opening hours before visiting