17 Best Bars in The Rocks

By Aimee O'Keefe - Guide

Published: 8 July 2023, Last Updated: 25 Apr 2024

More than just a tourist spot, The Rocks is home to some of Sydney’s best bars with a vibrant mix of rooftop bars, underground dens, unpretentious drinking holes, and classic pubs stepped in history. With Sydney’s pristine harbour as the backdrop, you can see why the area attracts such a crowd. So, if you’re friends from overseas are in town or you’re just looking for a good night doubled with some of Sydney’s best sights, our list of the best bars in The Rocks is a great place to start.

Best Bars in the Rocks at a Glance

Our list of the best bars in the rocks goes like this.

The best bar in the rocks overall: Maybe Sammy
If you’re looking to avoid the big crowds: Frank Mac’s
If you want great cocktails: Grain Bar
If you’re looking for a bar with great food: Mrs Jones

Now we’ve had a look at our favourites, let’s check out the complete list.

Best bars in the rocks maybe sammy — Maybe Sammy | Image: Supplied

1. Maybe Sammy

Maybe Sammy is Sydney’s worst-kept bar secret, the award-winning venue takes the 1950s theme to the max with a cocktail bar that is something out of a dream. Think Hollywood, Vegas, glitz and glam, accompanied by hotel bar-style service and award-winning cocktails – you could easily be fooled into thinking you were royalty for the night. Maybe Sammy’s cocktail list is like nothing else, each named after some of the Rat Pack’s favourite haunts. Or, if you fancy champagne, spirits or some of your favourite Aussie beers, you’ll be more than happy here.

Address: 115 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Phone: Tues-Fri 4.30pm-12pm, Sat 12.30pm-1am
Hours: (02) 9241 4970

Visit Maybe Sammy Maybe Sammy Menu

frank macs steven woodburn — Frank Mac’s | Image: Supplied / Steven Woodburn

2. Frank Mac’s

By far one of the best bars in The Rocks, if you’re a fiend for all things gin (and Irish pubs), Frank Mac’s will feed all your gin-filled dreams and some. These guys stock over one hundred juniper blends from around the world, which coupled with an intimate yet expansive two-story space nestled within one of The Rocks’ quintessential sandstone buildings, makes for a cosy, memorable night. Head to the back of the venue and you’ll find a hidden courtyard, head downstairs and you’ll find a whisky lounge (as pictured). In terms of food, you’ll find a menu full of classic hearty eats – think pies, paninis and platters. Don’t leave without trying the ‘Irish Goodbye’ cocktail made with Method and Madness gin, lillet, elderflower, rose and green chartreuse.

Address: 83 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5pm-12pm, Fri 4pm-2am, Sat 12pm-2am, Sun 12pm-10pm
Phone: 0478 189 837

Visit Frank Mac’s Frank Mac’s Menu

Best bars in the rocks grain bar — Grain Bar | Image: Supplied

3. Grain Bar

When we’re looking for a great espresso martini, we can’t go past Grain Bar. And while their whisky selection remains one of the best on this list, it’s the cocktails that stand out. Bartenders are fluent in creating custom cocktails when you can’t make your mind up, but they also serve some of the classics, the aforementioned espresso martini our personal favourite, but also the royalty negroni with Procera Gin, Carpano Antica Formula, Campari, and Truffle Honey. Food is mostly shared-style, with Kingfish Tartare, Pork Katsu Sandos, and Wagyu Sliders. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of The Rocks, head into Grain Bar.

Located in: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Address: 199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Thur 4-11pm, Fri-Sat 4pm-12am
Phone: (02) 9250 3118

Visit Grain Bar Grain Bar Menu

4. Alice

While their cocktails and alcoholic drinks menu sits amongst the best in Sydney, it’s the mocktails that our friends keep going back to at Alice. It’s an upmarket bar so don’t expect things to be as cheap as The Glenmore Hotel, however, this bar in The Rocks shines with great ambience and one of our favourite Old Fashioned cocktails in the harbour city, it’s called the ‘Fortune Cookie Old Fashioned’ so buckle up. If you’re hungry, go for their Salmon Sashimi taco, Chicken Karaage, or Pizza that’s available from 10 pm.

Address: 16 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Thur 4-11:30pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am
Phone: (02) 9145 8145

Visit Alice Alice Menu

Best bars in the rocks the doss house 2 — The Doss House | Image: Alana Dimou

5. The Doss House

If you’re looking for one of those bars at The Rocks with an authentic vintage spin to match the ambience of the historical area, The Doss House is the spot for you. The heritage underground bar exudes old-world charm and effortlessly transports you to a bygone era. They offer delicious shared plates and (lots) of whisky, with a selection so extensive it almost feels as if you’re reading a geography book! And in case you wanted something a bit extra, they also offer fun whisky experiences like masterclasses and whisky-themes events.

Address: 77/79 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5pm-1am, Fri-Sat 4pm-2am, Sun 4pm-12am
Phone: 0457 880 180

Visit The Doss House The Doss House Menu

6. Mrs Jones

Located downstairs in the iconic Orient Hotel, This The Rocks bar is more like an oasis. With florals, greenery and classic accents scattered throughout, the interior is just as beautiful as the food and just as indulgent as the well-appointed cocktail and wine menu. The menu takes a farm-to-table approach and has a seafood focus, with the likes of a delicious vegetable risotto and pan-fried salmon with silky pea purée, fennel and herb salad. Come on Friday night and you will also find live music and DJs!

Address: 1 Kendall Ln, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Tues 12pm-9m, Weds-Thurs 12pm-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-12am
Phone: (02) 9251 1255

Visit Mrs Jones Mrs Jones

7. Cruise Bar

Cruise Bar is one of the best bars in The Rocks for a good time, and it’s not just thanks to the uninterrupted harbour views. Located on the wharf at Circular Quay, Cruise Bar is the go-to spot for locals and tourists alike, giving it a buzz and energy that is hard to match. Head Chef Han Chen showcases a delicious modern-Australian menu inspired by the harbourside location, which pairs perfectly with an extensive drinks menu. Our top tip for starting off your night at Cruise Bar the right way? Order the ‘Mojo Magic’ and the rest is history.

Address: Level 1, 2 and 3, Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Thurs 11.30am-12pm, Fri 11.30am-1am, Sat 11.30am-2.30am, Sun 11.30am-10pm
Phone: (02) 9251 1188

Visit Cruise Bar

8. The Push

Located a stone’s throw away from Circular Quay, The Push in The Rocks is a bar that is a little bit different to other establishments in the precinct, which is why we love it. Here, you will find a baby grand piano front and centre, and every Saturday night from 7.30 pm, put forward your request and you may just get lucky. Blending old-school charm with a modern edge, you will also find a live DJ on Friday nights along with classic cocktails and local wines with craft beers and all your favourite Aussie eats. Say no more.

Address: 143 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Thurs-Fri 4pm-11pm, Sat 3pm-11.30pm
Phone: (02) 9241 2999

Visit The Push The Push Menu

Best bars in the rocks el camino cantina — El Camino Cantina | Image: Supplied

9. El Camino Cantina

Any Sydneysider will have a story or two about a night at El Camino, the Sydney institution with a cult-following taking Mexican fare and good times to the next level at its The Rocks location. One of the best bars in The Rocks for tequila and the ultimate Tex-Mex dining experience, let loose with the help of endless margaritas and a colourful food menu packed with tacos, burritos, fajitas, buffalo wings, and nachos. Grab your sombrero, a night here is guaranteed to be a fun one.

Address: 18 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Thurs 12pm-10pm, Fri 12pm-12am

Visit El Camino Cantina El Camino Cantina Menu

10. Bar Mille

Yet another one of the bars at The Rocks that transforms a historical building into a buzzing night-spot, while retaining nods to its past, Bar Millie sees the original 1856 Rawson Institute for Seamen transformed with a fresh nautical vibe. Expect DJs, live music and a delicious menu. We can’t go past the prawn pasta, and their wood-fired pizzas are seriously addictive, which pair delightfully with their extensive wine list and fun cocktails.

Address: Ground Floor/100 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun, Tues-Thurs 12pm-12am, Fri-Sat 12pm-2.30am
Phone: (02) 8070 9311

Visit Bar Mille Bar Mille Menu

Best bars in circular quay junk lounge — Junk Lounge | Image: Supplied

11. Junk Lounge

Just upstairs from Cruise Bar, you’ll find Junk Lounge, an opulent, Orient-inspired bar with an innovative cocktail list and delicious Asian-inspired menu to match. If the panoramic views of the Opera House aren’t enough, we promise the menu here sure will be. Our recommendations? Try the miso eggplant sticks and Japanese Octopus salad paired with a matcha-infused Don Julio Blanco, coconut cream, lime, and desiccated coconut. There’s also live jazz most Wednesdays, so get booking.

Address: Level 2, Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun, Weds-Thurs 5pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 5pm-1am
Phone: (02) 9251 1188

Visit Junk Lounge Junk Lounge Menu

Best bars in the rocks the glenmore — The Glenmore | Image: Supplied

12. The Glenmore

A true classic when it comes to bars at The Rocks, we’d even go as far as to say it’s a Sydney icon. Of course, it is none other than The Glenmore. Perhaps boasting the best vantage point in all of Sydney, this bar combines a historic pub downstairs with a vibrant rooftop bar upstairs, so you really get the best of both worlds. The menu here changes seasonally and is full of classic pub grub with a modern twist – burgers, chicken parmy, as well as fresh seafood and salads. Our tip? This is by far the best spot to bring your friends from out of town for the ultimate Sydney experience.

Address: 96 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-12pm, Fri-Sat 11am-1pm
Phone: (02) 9395 5151

Visit The Glenmore The Glenmore Menu

13. Erics Bar

Erics Bar is one of the best bars in The Rocks if you’re looking for boutique wines, chic decor and heritage charm. Located in The Harbour Rocks Hotel, this bar combines and is the ideal setting for a fancy dinner or nightcap. Our recommendation is to come during happy hour, which runs 5 -7 pm, to try as many boutique wines from around the globe.

Address: 34/52 Harrington St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 10am-10pm
Phone: (02) 8220 9999

Visit Erics Bar

Best bars in the rocks double deuce lounge — Double Deuce Lounge | Image: Supplied

14. Double Deuce Lounge

If you’re looking for an intimate The Rocks bar, look no further than Double Deuce Lounge. This is always our go-to for date night, and it never disappoints. A 70’s-esque fever dream awaits you, as well as fun cocktails like our personal favourite – the ‘Full Bush’ with Maker’s Mark, Yuzu, Grapefruit, Rooibos, and Maple.

Address: 6 Bridge St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5am-12am, Fri-Sat 5pm-2am

Visit Double Deuce Lounge Double Deuce Lounge Menu

Best bars in the rocks palmer and co — Palmer and Co. | Image: Supplied

15. Palmer and Co.

Sick of living in 2023? Palmer and Co. is one of the best bars in The Rocks that will help you escape. The underground prohibition-style bar offers a range of goodies – from live music, delicious cocktails, spirits and champagne and a moody atmosphere that we can’t fault. Try the ‘Friday I’m In Love’ with Beefeater Gin, Black Raspberry, Cherry Brandy, Lemon, Cream, Rose, Vanilla, and Soda – you won’t be disappointed.

Address: Abercrombie Ln, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Tues 5pm-12am, Weds-Thurs 5pm-2am, Fri-Sat 4pm-3pm, Sun 5pm-3am
Phone: (02) 9114 7315

Visit Palmer and Co. Palmer and Co. Menu

Best bars in circular quay establishment bar — Establishment Bar | Image: Supplied

16. Establishment Bar

Another bar on board the Merivale train, Establishment Bar is one of The Rocks’ finest. The sophisticated marble bar and garden-style patio are accompanied by a menu with a mix of traditional Thai cuisine with classic Aussie pub food. Our tip is to grab a platter –they have anything you could imagine, from sliders to chicken satay, to salmon poke tostadas – also a great idea for sharing and soaking up the many delicious seasonal cocktails we have a feeling you’ll also be enjoying a few of while you’re here.

Address: Ground Floor, 252 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sat 1am-3pm
Phone: (02) 9114 7310

Visit Establishment Bar Establishment Bar Menu

17. Alleyway

This tiny bar is one of the best bars in The Rocks for an intimate, romantic night out in Sydney. The little brother to small bar Avenue, Alleyway is the secret younger talent just waiting to be discovered. If you’re lucky enough to score a spot, sit back and relax with a whisky or fine wine.

Address: Shop 3/200 George St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Tues 3pm-11pm, Weds-Thurs 12pm-11pm, Fri 12pm-11.30pm

Visit Alleyway

How We Chose the Best Rocks Bars

Having covered the best in food and drinks across Man of Many for the last few years, author Aimee O’Keefe and the Editorial Team have selected a list of the best bars in The Rocks. In a collaborative effort, the team have spent time at each of these bars, sampling the cocktails, wines, and of course, whisky. After also testing the various food options, they’ve chosen this list based on merit. Ranking the bars in terms of ambience, drinks, price, and then value for money, while also taking into account their location and how central they are to The Rocks.

Alternatives to Bars in The Rocks

Haven’t found exactly what you’re after? Maybe you’re more a lover of beer than you are a cocktail fiend. Check out some of our favourite articles below, with everything from brews to yum cha.