The Inner West of the Harbour City is an area that always seems to be evolving. Once the hang-out of students and those with more idiosyncratic tastes, these days there is clearly more money about, though the grungy pockets still (thankfully) exist. And with each new wave of residents come different styles of eateries and places to relax and maybe grab a drink or 2.
So to help you narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the best bars in Sydney’s Inner West. From trendy rooftop hang-outs to cozy speakeasies, this list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local looking for a new spot to frequent or a visitor looking for a taste of Sydney’s nightlife, this list will guide you to the best establishments in the area.
So sit back, pour a glass of whatever you fancy, and let us take you on a tour of the Inner West’s top watering holes.

Firstly, we’ll start with a long-time favourite when it comes to the finest bars in Sydney’s Inner West:
The Drummer (Formerly The Different Drummer)
Location: 185 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe, NSW 2037 Ph: (02) 8034 7075
Few places have a vibe as solid as the one at The Drummer, though many would love to.
Best Bars for Craft Beer
Craft beer lovers in Sydney’s inner west have plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best bars for craft beer:
The Henson Park Hotel
Location: 91 Illawara Rd, Marrickville, NSW 2204 Ph: (02) 9171 1868
The Henson is a popular pub in Marrickville that offers an impressive selection of craft beers. They have 10 taps that rotate regularly, featuring beers from both local and international breweries. They also have a great bottle selection, with over 100 different beers to choose from.
The bar has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a great spot to catch up with friends over a few beers. They also have a beer garden with plenty of seating, perfect for enjoying a cold brew on a sunny day.
Whilst you are in Marrickville, why not dine at some of the spots in our guide to the Best Vietnamese Sydney? Marrickville has a big Vietnamese community and some places to eat within its parameters.
The Royal Leichhardt
Location: 156 Norton St, Leichhardt, NSW 2040 Ph: (02) 9569 2638
The Royal Hotel in Leichhardt is another great option for craft beer lovers. They have 12 taps that rotate regularly, featuring beers from some of the best local and international breweries. They also have an extensive bottle selection, with over 150 different beers to choose from.
The bar has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, with plenty of seating both indoors and outdoors. They also have a great food menu, with plenty of options to pair with your beer.
Both The Henson and The Royal Hotel are great bars for craft beer lovers in Sydney’s inner west. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed atmosphere or a cozy spot to catch up with friends, both of these bars have plenty to offer.
The Inner West Brewery Association
The Inner West Brewery Association is a collective of seven breweries located in Sydney’s Inner West. While not strictly a cocktail bar, the association offers a unique experience for those looking to try something different. Each brewery has its own distinct style and atmosphere, and visitors can sample a variety of craft beers while exploring the area. Some of the breweries also offer cocktails and other drinks, so there is something for everyone. The association hosts regular events, including brewery tours and tastings, making it a must-visit destination for beer and cocktail lovers alike.
In conclusion, Sydney’s Inner West has a fantastic selection of bars for those looking to enjoy a delicious cocktail. The Gretz and the Inner West Brewery Association are just two examples of the many great options available in the area. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cocktail or something more adventurous, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for in the Inner West.
Best Bars for Cocktails
When it comes to cocktails, Sydney’s Inner West has plenty of options to choose from. Here are two of the best bars for cocktails in the area:
And if you’re searching for a good mixologist beyond the Inner West, see our piece on the top Cocktail Bars in Sydney

Best Bars for Live Music
Sydney’s inner west is home to some of the best bars for live music in the city. Whether you’re into rock, jazz, or indie music, there’s a bar that caters to your taste. Here are two of the best bars for live music in the inner west:
The Vanguard
Location: 42 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042
The Vanguard is a legendary venue that has been hosting live music for over 60 years. Located in Newtown, this intimate bar has a capacity of only 120 people, which makes for an unforgettable experience. The stage is just a few feet away from the audience, and the sound quality is excellent. The Vanguard hosts a variety of music genres, including jazz, blues, and folk. They also have a restaurant that serves delicious food and drinks, making it a perfect spot for a night out.
Lazybones Lounge Restaurant & Bar
Location: 294 Marrickville Rd, Marrickville, NSW 2204 Ph: 0450 008 563
Lazybones Lounge is a popular spot for live music in Marrickville. This bar has a funky, retro vibe, and features a stage that’s big enough to accommodate a full band. They host live music every night of the week, so there’s always something going on. The music genres vary from funk to soul to rock, so there’s something for everyone. Lazybones Lounge also has a restaurant that serves tasty food and drinks, making it a great spot for dinner and a show.
Both The Vanguard and Lazybones Lounge offer a unique live music experience in the inner west. They have a great atmosphere, excellent sound quality, and delicious food and drinks. If you’re a music lover, these bars are a must-visit when in Sydney.
Best Bars for Wine
When it comes to wine bars in Sydney’s inner west, there are a few standout options that are worth checking out. Here are two of the best:
The Stinking Bishops
Location: Shop 5/63-71 Enmore Rd, Newtown, NSW 2042 Ph: (02) 9550 6116
Located in Enmore, The Stinking Bishops is a cozy wine bar that’s known for its impressive selection of cheese and charcuterie. In fact, it chooses to refer to itself as a Cheese Restaurant. And who are we to argue?
But don’t let the name fool you – the wine list is just as impressive as the food. With a focus on natural and organic wines, the menu features a range of interesting and unique options that are sure to please any wine lover. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to make recommendations or help you navigate the extensive list.
In addition to the wine, The Stinking Bishops also offers a range of craft beers and ciders, as well as a small selection of cocktails and spirits. The food menu is designed to pair perfectly with the drinks, and features a range of cheese and meat boards, as well as other small plates and snacks.
For our take on the finest Wine Bars in Sydney, see here
Editor’s Note: We are currently in the process of updating this article. Please come back for further reviews and recommendations.
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