The best rooftop bars in Sydney

What is it? Sydney has its fair share of rooftop bars, but there are only a handful with uninterrupted views of Sydney’s gorgeous harbour – Zephyr is one of them.

Why we love it: Step out of the elevators on the 12th floor of the Hyatt Regency Sydney hotel into this open-air rooftop bar and you'll feel like you’ve stepped onto the deck of a superyacht, looking out over Sydney’s Darling Harbour, the peaks of the ANZAC Bridge, and all the way over to the start of the Parramatta River.

Time out tip: Zephyr Bar is a top spot for viewing the sunset, as it's one of the few harbourside rooftop bars with uninterrupted views of Sydney's west.

Address: Level 12/161 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A glamorous venue that's perched above the Cartier flagship store in Sydney’s CBD, offering sweeping cityscape views.

Why we love it: Sydney’s newest rooftop bar is a shimmering, Japanese-inspired showstopper in the CBD’s beating heart. Featuring a sexy cocktail lounge, dining space and slick rooftop terrace, Joji is open until 2am most nights a week, so if you’re out and about (late) in the city, you know where to head. And don't forget your Gucci.

Time Out tip: Hungry? Our fave thing on the menu is the scallop and bug sando – order that.

Address: Level 5, 388 George St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A primo spot for sipping on a drink and taking in the views, named after American socialite photographer Slim Aarons.

Why we love it: This bar's name could equally refer to the narrow stairs leading to rooftop — there’s a good amount of side-sashaying and waiting-on-the-landing as staff and patrons patiently wait to climb up or down the stairs. But don’t despair, because it’s a stairway to heaven. Slims is an open-air oasis with succulent plants and low walls, allowing for stunning views of the Art-Deco buildings on William Street and the glittery skyscrapers of the not-too-distant CBD. 

Time Out tip: Join the bar's brunch club on Saturdays and Sundays – a booking will get you two hours of limitless booze and a yummy feed for $95.

Address: 47/49 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

What is it? A chimera, combining the best of moody candle lit drinking with the surprise element of a sunny rooftop bar into the bargain.

Why we love it: This old mate is our long-time favourite thanks to the complete package: drinks, service, style and a rooftop. Choose your fighter at Old Mate’s Place. Do you want to settle in the vintage-style bar with comfy leather booths, dozens of old books, and a twinkling chandelier? Or race to the sky-high rooftop, compete for one of the in-demand tables, and bask in the sunshine and glory? Wherever you go, it’s sure to be a hit. And say ‘hi’ to Old Mate for us, please. 

Time Out tip: Clock off early to score a seat up amongst the potted plants and down Negronis and Jamaican beers in the late-evening light.

Address: 4/199 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000

Sitting atop Bankstown Sports Club, Lady Banks Rooftop is a sprawling rooftop bar with 360-degree views stretching from the Sydney skyline to the Blue Mountains. Inspired by the Lady Banks rose, named after Lady Dorothea Banks, wife of the botanist and Bankstown namesake Sir Joseph Banks, the space is filled with pretty greenery and serves up crowd-pleasing plates and fun cocktails. Come for golden-hour drinks – and stay for the views.

What is it? A sun-soaked, cinematic new rooftop bar crowning one of Sydney’s most exciting new hotels – serving excellent Spritzes and far-reaching views across the rooftops of Paddinton to the CBD.

Why we love it: Monica is a special-occasion style rooftop spot – the kind of place you’d book for family visiting from out of town or for an overdue dinner with friends. Stepping through the lifts on the top floor of Paddington’s 25Hours Hotel and you’re immediately struck by the energy of the place – Oxford Street’s golden hour light pouring through the windows and a DJ on the balcony setting the tone. Everything here is pulled off with a gorgeously Paddington sense of polish: plush cushioned seating, excellent drinks and a cute curation of very aesthetically-pleasing snacks.

Time Out tip: Book ahead to make sure you score a table on the balcony – the interiors are beautiful, but the alfresco experience is what you’re after.

Address: 1 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021

Thirsty in Penrith? Head up to Theo’s Rooftop, a Mediterranean-inspired rooftop bar perched above Astina Suites. The open-air space pairs city and mountain views with a menu of cocktails, wine and coastal European flavours, making it a great spot for sunset drinks or a long afternoon with friends. First time? Try Teddy, made with Arktika vanilla vodka, Passoa, passionfruit and citrus – it’s summer in a glass.

The word hidden gem gets thrown around a lot, but The Library Bar – atop Sydney’s beautiful, historic State Library of NSW – fits the bill. Don’t enter via the main doorway. Instead, head around the back and enter via the secret entrance near the Domain. Take the lift up, and once there, you’ll find a two-level airy bar, with the top level taking pole position once the sun sets. You’ll be rewarded with a twinkling city skyline and one of the best pozzies to sip on bubbles in Sydney.

What is it? A lush rooftop bar with tropical, beach-club vibes.

Why we love it: If you head up to level 7 of CBD hotel Kimpton Margot Sydney, you'll find a beach club-style oasis right in the heart of the city – perfect for work knock-off drinks, or as a central spot to meet up with friends on weekends. Harper Rooftop Bar reckons they are Sydney’s largest open-air rooftop bar. And while we don’t have a tape measure on us, it is rather large, with capacity for 180 punters.

Time Out tip: Your dog is welcome, too!

Address: Level 7/339 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? Head up to level 32 of the InterContinental for a nightcap at Aster, a flash rooftop bar with some of the best views in Sydney.

Why we love it: The Classic Negroni goes down a treat, though we’re not really here for the drinks. We’re here for the views. From the charcoal suede seats or the wrap-around bar outside, you can take in the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House, glittering city skyline and Royal Botanic Gardens all rolling below.

Time Out tip: You’ll need to book for Aster, and there’s a minimum spend, but for a special night, we reckon it’s worth it.

Address: Level 32/117 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A glamorous rooftop oasis within the new multi-level Martin Place venue, The International.

Why we love it: Located within the heritage-listed MLC Centre in the former Botswana Butchery site, The Panorama Bar is by the Shell House crew, and joins The Wine Bar and The Grill, a swish, fire-driven restaurant. With high-end drinks and snacks, a killer music line-up and vibey DJs – The Panorama Bar brings big city energy, kicking into gear when the sun sets.

Time Out tip: Highlights on the menu include the scallop ceviche with green chilli, radish and sesame crackers; a popcorn lobster roll with togarashi aioli; and a tuna taco with sea pearls, pickles and cabbage.

Address: 25 Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A CBD pub back after a four-year hiatus, housing five venues under one roof (and one on top) – and it's a cracker.

Why we love it: Set across five floors, the stunning venue is so much more than a pub – with a Mediterranean-inspired dining room, a moody, prohibition-style cocktail lounge, a sports bar and a disco ball-adorned night club. Though our favourite level is the sun-soaked rooftop, which feels like a Santorini fever dream.

Time Out tip: Come hungry! The rooftop kitchen flames with a spit roast and grill, offering kalamaki (skewers) and strifto (wraps) of marinated pork, beef rump and prawn saganaki, among others.

Address: 81 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A Moroccan-inspired rooftop oasis in the heart of Darlinghurst.

Why we love it: Found on top of the Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst, Moroccan and Mediterranean-inspired rooftop bar Kasbah offers sweeping views of the city skyline coupled with dreamy decor that takes cues from the colours and life of Marrakesh – think pastel lounges, vibrant tiles, Persian rugs and lush greenery. If that’s not saying sunset drinks, we don’t know what will.

Time Out tip: Highlights on the drinks list include the Silk Road with vodka, coffee liquor, tahini, cardamom and rose water; and the Sultan Sour with rum, sultanas, cashew orgeat, pear, lime and mandarin soda.

Address: 99 William St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

What is it? A Surry Hills stalwart that's recently undergone a multimillion-dollar renovation and is now home to a beautiful ground-floor restaurant, a chic cocktail bar and a rooftop terrace.

Why we love it: Giddy up! The White Horse is back and better than ever. Its new form ticks a lot of boxes: exciting, clever and most importantly, delicious plates of food, a beautiful dining room, and prices that offer good value. When the sun's out, head up to the rooftop terrace – a lush haven with greenery and good vibes.

Time Out tip: Downstairs is home to an excellent restaurant serving well-priced, delicious plates of food, with more than 20 bottles of wine for $100 or less. Score.

Address: 381 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

What is it? A levelled-up CBD date-night spot where you can spend a New York minute.

Why we love it: One of four establishments found at restaurateur Brett Robinson's CBD hospo hub Shell House, the Sky Bar is an Art Deco dream in earthy hues. The menu of cocktails and bar snacks is a streamlined affair, but with a surprising level of sophistication.

Time Out tip: While there are a couple of more substantial plates on offer, the majority of the eats are essentially bougie finger food. 

Address: 37 Margaret St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? A hotel rooftop offering stunning views of sparkling blue water and live music which often plays late into the night.

Why we love it: Watsons Bay Hotel is packed on weekends as Sydneysiders come to enjoy Sunday Sessions with buckets of tiger prawns and an Aperol Spritz or two as the sun is setting.

Time Out tip: Staying the night? Aside from lying on the beach, swimming in the ocean, walking along the foreshore trail and drinking in the sunshine, there’s not too much to do in Watsons Bay itself, but a ferry ride will take you to the centre of the city in just 30 minutes.

Address: 1 Military Road, Watsons Bay NSW 2030

What is it? A historic boozer slinging great drinks from a buzzy, traditional pub setting complete with a rooftop bar with city views.

Why we love it: Found on the corner of Foveaux Street in Surry Hills, this spot has a lot of things going for it. Its pub food offerings are a big step above average (the puffy, charred pizzas are our fave), and their happy hour (Mon-Thu, 5-7pm) pours beers and wines from $7.50. Plus, their spacious rooftop is a cracking spot to while away an afternoon.

Time Out tip: Flip to the cocktail menu where they’ll mix you up an Old Fashioned or Espresso Martini for around $20, or grab a whole jug to share on the rooftop. 

Address: 26 Foveaux St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

What is it? A polished Paddo institution if ever there was one.

Why we love it: This legendary boozer at Five Ways has been a Paddo locals' favourite for many a decade, but the roof still remains something of secret. If the climb to the top doesn't take your breath away, the skyline views certainly will. There are only a handful of seats up here, but if you're lucky enough to score one, we reckon it's the best place to watch the sunset in Paddington.

Time Out tip: The Royal has midweek meal deals, like $18 gyros on Mondays.

Address: 237 Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021

What is it? Martin Place's tropical haven Cabana Bar may not technically be a rooftop bar, but it deserves an honorable mention for its sprawling open-air space and wrap-around terrace.

Why we love it: With pretty pastel pinks, marble and gold accents, and lush greenery throughout, Cabana Bar channels holiday vibes, and we'll drink to that.

Time Out tip: Those who dare can dive into the “fishbowl” cocktails, 600 millilitre balloon glasses that are “designed for the long-term vacationer”.

Address: 25 Martin Pl, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? An Art Deco-style cocktail and Champagne bar with a touch of old-world glamour.

Why we love it: Stepping into this cocktail bar 26 storeys above Parramatta's CBD is like entering another – more glamorous – world. Every little detail has been considered, not a corner cut. If you’re looking for a spot for a special night out, come here.

Time Out tip: Get there on a clear day to capitalise on the crystal-clear views.

Address: Level 26/45 Macquarie Street, Parramatta NSW 2150

What is it? The towering Quay Quarter Tower may not be your first choice for a post-work drink, but the French-inspired Martinez found within could change that.

Why we love it: Inspired by the south of France, Martinez’s seafood-forward menu and Burgundy-drenched dining room will have you dreaming of your next Euro getaway. The wrap-around rooftop bar boasts vibrant splashes, views of the Harbour Bridge, crowd-pleasing dishes and refreshing drinks.

Time Out tip: If you're dining at the restaurant, be sure to try the bouillabaisse.

Address: Quay Quarter Tower, 50 Bridge St, Ground Lobby (access via lift on Young Street), NSW 2000

What is it? The Glenmore lifts us up where we belong - with cold beers on their sunny rooftop.

Why we love it: There are few views in Sydney that can rival the majesty of the harbour panorama from rooftop of the Glenmore Hotel down in the Rocks. It's always a good bet for when you have visitors from out of town and weekends get crowded, but we're just as keen on heading here on a Monday for a $19.90 steak and a quiet drink with mates.

Time out tip: On Thursdays, Spritzes are $15 all day.

Address: 96 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000

What is it? What used to be an old wharfside hotel is now a slick city destination for drinking and dining.

Why we love it: The Sussex Hotel boasts one of the CBD’s biggest beer gardens, but we’ve got love-heart eyes for the rooftop, which is lush with plants and dotted with cherry-red and vanilla striped umbrellas. Located on the edge of Barangaroo, The Sussex is a sound option if you’ve just knocked off – or are on your lunch break – and feel like a Spritz or two in the sun.

Time out tip: Happy hour runs from 5-7pm, Monday to Friday.

Address: 20 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? The Lansdowne Hotel may be a haven for live-music buffs, but when the sun is shining, it's also a top place to sink a few beers on its retro-inspired rooftop, open Friday and Saturday.

Why we love it: Sporting rainbow umbrellas, blue astroturf, and big wooden tables, the rooftop is an inner-city oasis where you can soak up the sunset over chilled drinks before heading downstairs for a gig. First opening in the 1930s, the Lansdowne Hotel is a Sydney institution, and has played an integral role in the city’s live music scene, with the likes of the Living End, Courtney Barnett and Art vs Science rocking on its stages.

Time out tip: Check out upcoming gigs at the website.

Address: 2-6 City Rd, Chippendale NSW 2008

What is it? Henry Deane cocktail lounge may just sit atop an old Sydney pub, but an afternoon spent there will have you on Cloud Nine.

Why we love it: There are plenty of bars with views out over Sydney – but there are few that offer up almost 360-degree vistas, where you can lap up the Harbour Bridge, the city skyline, the beginnings of the Parramatta River and even Barangaroo below. Henry Deane serves up a feast for the eyes, and anyone who has the pleasure of whiling away a sparkling afternoon followed by a sunset here – like we have – feels actually on top of the world.

Time out tip: So who is old mate, Henry Deane? He was an Australian engineer and architect who’s famous for electrifying Sydney’s tram system and building certain railways, but he also happened to design the original hotel above the Palisade pub all those years ago.

Address: Hotel Palisade, 35 Bettington St, Millers Point NSW 2000

What is it? With unbeatable views and excellent cocktails, this smart and slick CBD bar is a solid choice for your next date night or after-work tipple.

Why we love it: Top-notch cocktails by expert shaker Grant Collins, impressive views over the QVB and a swish vibe is what you can expect from Zeta Bar, found within Sydney's CBD at The Hilton. Come night, the space feels romantic. Inside, the dark leather seats, flicking fireplace and low lights adds to its charm.

Time Out tip: The rooftop terrace is a lovely spot to knock back a glass or two of bubbles when the sun’s out, and if you come during happy hour (daily, between 5-7pm), you can snap up $15 cocktails, $12 wines and $10 beers.

Address: Hilton Hotel, Lvl 4, 488 George St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? Sip on a floral cocktail and assemble 12-hour braised lamb shoulder tacos at this pretty Potts Point restaurant while you look out over Sydney’s skyline.

Why we love it: The Butler's al fresco garden terrace has sweeping views of the entire city, providing the perfect backdrop to a night making your way through the extensive cocktail menu. While the menu showcases fresh, local Aussie produce – like WA octopus and Shark Bay scampi – the influence here is Latin American. And the results? It’s muy bien, indeed.

Time Out tip: You can also upgrade your mains ‘VIP style’ so you get corn tortillas and house made salsas.

Address: 123 Victoria St, Potts Point NSW 2011

What is it? This neighbourhood pub in Glebe recently got a makeover – and we think it might become one of your favourite lunch spots in the area (or the city for that matter).

Why we love it: If the Tocky wasn’t already a treasured Glebe local for pub grub on a sunny Sunday, their rooftop terrace might have just sealed the deal. The pub underwent renovations in September 2023 to create a nook upstairs that is cosy, light-filled and offers prime views of Glebe’s lush greenery and the city’s skyline. 

Time Out tip: For those get-togethers that finally make it out of the group chat, there are plenty of bottles of vino (including a couple for under $50) and cocktail carafes to share around. 

Address: 345 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe NSW 2037

What is it? Long-time Manly locals remember the OG Steyne like an old flame. These days, the heritage-listed hotel is sporting a new look and is nowhere near as grundgy as it once was, and Moonshine is now a thing of the past (RIP), but the rooftop – and those ripping views – remain.

Why we love it: If you’re after fun and fruity cocktails in a special location, it doesn’t get much better than Steyne’s rooftop bar. The sun-drenched space offers front-row ocean views to one of Australia's most beautiful beaches, as well as lush greenery and flamingo-pink umbrellas. Order a Marg or a Spritz, sit back and soak in those holiday-like vistas.

Time Out tip: If you’re a fan of bottomless brunch (hello, all of Sydney), the casual Asian diner Miami Rice next door hosts sittings on Saturdays featuring a share-style menu as well as flowing Raspberry Margs, Passionfruit and Lychee Bellinis, Hunter Valley sparkling, beer and wine for $99 per person.

Address: 75 The Corso, Manly NSW 2095

What is it? Soak in the sights of the city at this playful rooftop bar perched on top of the Vibe Hotel.

Why we love it: With playful floral displays that are begging for a feature on the ‘gram and panoramic views of skyscrapers lit up in the twilight, you really might want to add rooftop bar Above 319 to your hit list. It also doesn’t hurt that an aquamarine infinity pool gazing out over Darling Harbour borders the joint. 

Time Out tip: The cocktail menu is fun, and we don't just mean flavour wise. Expect your drink to arrive garnished with anything from sparklers to liquid nitrogen bubbles.

Address: 319-325 Sussex St, Sydney, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? The Coogee Pavilion and its spectacular rooftop are making a serious play for our number one summertime haunt.

Why we love it: Go here for cold-pressed juice highballs, tasty meats cooked over coals and the uninterrupted glory of the Sydney coastline. 

Time Out tip: Check the website for upcoming DJ set sessions and specials.

Address: Ground Floor, 169 Dolphin St, Coogee NSW 2034

What is it? George Street stalwart Jacksons on George has a fresh look and an ex-Icebergs chef at the helm.

Why we love it: The multi-level venue houses a casual bar down below, and a charming bistro on level one. But when the sun is shining we're heading straight to the airy rooftop and taking a seat underneath the building’s architecturally striking veil (we reckon it looks like a wave). One Negroni, please.

Time Out tip: At night, the bistro transforms into a late-night live music bar.

Address: 176 George St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? An airy sky-high bar that's pretty in pink, with warm wooden bench seating and tropical plants galore.

Why we love it: Sydney can't get enough of rooftop bars. And we can't get enough of breweries. So it was only a matter of time before one of Marrickville's most beloved craft beer purveyors bit the bullet and brought this love affair full circle. Enter: Marrickville Springs, the '80s tropicana resort-style bar atop Philter Brewing in Sydney's Inner West. 

Time Out tip: As for food, you can expect '90s-style cheese boards and that retro dinner party classic, the prawn cocktail.

Address: 92-98 Sydenham Rd, Marrickville NSW 2204

What is it? The Solotel group went and made Opera Bar a suave sister in the form of Smoke – the crowning glory of Barangaroo House.

Why we love it: It’s only once you’re sitting on the beautiful deck of this third-floor cocktail lounge that you realise that it was the missing piece of Sydney’s bar puzzle all along. Smoke is known to host some pretty spesh seasonal pop-up events, such as a gorgeous forest-inspired winter wonderland in the colder months.  

Time Out tip: Planning a special occasion? This is a great spot for a cocktail party for around 50 to 100 peeps.

Address: Level 3/35, Barangaroo House, Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000

What is it? Darlinghurst's pub the Taphouse has had a glow up, and so too has its rooftop. Head upstairs for sunshine, local beers and great Cantonese food.

Why we love it: The rejuvenated Darlinghurst pub has swapped wedges for wontons, and taken to morphing into a three-storey house party once dinner’s cleared. There's a lot of fun to be had here so make a night of it!

Time Out tip: There are fun reasons to visit every night of the week at Taphouse, like noodle Mondays and Trivia Tuesays.

Address: 122 Flinders St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

What is it? The guys behind the Greens and Acre Eatery have brought their green thumbs and cocktail shaking hands to a Mosman rooftop.

Why we love it: The Fernery has views out over the harbour all the way to North Head, and they even brought urban farmer Adrian Baiada on board to build them an outdoor kitchen garden. 

Time Out tip: Head in on a Friday or Saturday evening for twilight tunes sessions.

Address: 719 Military Rd, Mosman NSW 2088

What is it? The formerly named Zanzibar has changed its name and offering, plus renovated all three floors. 

Why we love it: Don't worry, you can still get beers on the roof and late night party vibes are still strong on weekends, but in between they've revamped the drinks list and given this multi-storey Newtown pub a bit of a spruce up.

Time Out tip: Planning a group meet-up? All meals and drinks at this welcoming open-air space are served at long wood tables – perfect for communal gatherings.

Address: 323 King St, Newtown NSW 2042

What is it? The Cauliflower on Botany Road is a Sydney institution. They've jazzed up the interiors and opened up a rooftop rum bar upstairs. 

Why we love it: On the food front, all your classic pub grub is there for the taking, from your schnittys to your steaks and beer-battered barramundi. But they’re also pumping out more novel bites, nailing Asian, Caribbean and vegetarian briefs. Best of all, you can still get a cheap counter feed here thanks to daily food specials that won't break the bank.

Time Out tip: In the mood for a bit of fun? Check out upcoming trivia and game nights at the website.

Address: 123 Botany Rd, Waterloo NSW 2017

What is it? This former bank is one of Oxford Street’s more revered and historic gay bars. 

Why we love it: The upstairs bar of this popular queer haunt is lounge-inspired, where designer lamps and mood lighting set a retro-inspired tone, all pretty swish. Further up, there's an awesome rooftop cocktail bar where you can watch the sun go down over the city.

Time Out tip: Rotating DJs, top-shelf drag shows, a standard selection of beers on tap and a creative cocktail list makes the Colombian a great spot to chill with friends (or take a walk on the wild side).

Address: 117/125 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

What is it? On the top level of the Shelbourne Hotel on Sussex Street you'll find the Rooftop, a Hamptons-inspired watering hole, with some of the best views of Darling Harbour in town.

Why we love it: Think palms, hanging chairs and rattan lounges with a backdrop of blush and bashful sunsets, or dazzling blue skies through a retractable roof. Pizzas, bar snacks and salads will keep you fueled for another flute of bubbles.

Time Out tip: Watching your wallet? Take advantage of the $20 weekly specials, available daily (except Sunday) from noon until 9pm.

Address: Level 3/200 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? One of Oxford Street's oldest pubs has a fresh rooftop bar five floors up.

Why we love it: The Burdekin is a skinny corner pub that has been guarding the entrance to Oxford Street since 1847. Standing five storeys up, its casual-chic watering hole is the only one of its kind on Oxford Street. Take in sweeping views of Sydney’s main drag for queer partying, stretching out to Hyde Park and to the Domain as you sip on original cocktails by the likes of the Back Ally, the Slutty Mermaid and the Pink Flamingo. 

Time Out tip: Could this spot be home to Sydney's very best bottomless brunch and drag show? Find out more and make a booking so you can be the judge.

Address: 2 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010

What is it? This open-air, top floor bar is definitely the jewel in the Light Brigade’s rejuvenated crown.

Why we love it: The old pub underwent extensive changes since the Bayfield family took ownership a few years back, and adding the top floor bar was a power move that makes the most of the pub’s prime Oxford Street location, with views stretching from Paddington clear across to the Coathanger.  

Time Out tip: A favourite haunt for Eastern Suburbs locals for decades, the pub is also a rite of passage for Swans fans before and after games at the Sydney Cricket Ground. 

Address: Corner of Oxford St and Jersey Rd, Woollahra NSW 2025

What is it? It's all about the Californian dreaming at this breezy bar north of the Bridge.

Why we love it: Sunny surf energy, Californian food and a touch of fiesta have all found their way to a private deck on Young Street, giving Neutral Bay’s decade-old rooftop bar a charming holiday narrative. And though there isn’t a body of water in sight, that hasn’t stopped Applejack Hospitality (the team behind Rafi, Bopp and Tone, the Butler, Forrester’s, June’s Shoppe, Hester’s and the Botanist) going full seaside on the SoCal fit-out.

Time Out tip: The sunny rooftop is the ideal place to smash quesadillas, ceviche, Margaritas and tacos.

Address: 1 Young St, Neutral Bay NSW 2089

What is it? We don’t need to tell you by now how much Sydney loves a rooftop bar, and the top floor addition to the East Village Hotel (previously the Darlo Village) is an A-grade, lofty drinking perch.

Why we love it: Sure, if cardio isn’t your friend you may even find you have to take a breather at the second floor, but that’s not going to be a problem because that’s where they added the Athletic Club, a vintage sports-themed bar that has a very toffy, “I went to Eton during the Downton Abbey years” vibe about it. 

Time Out tip: Sink your teeth into bottomless ribs and fries for just $39 on Wednesday nights.

Address: 234 Palmer St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 

What is it? The famous queer pub from 'Priscilla' has been given an inclusive makeover that honours her fabulous past.

Why we love it: Everything we know and love about this fabulous three-storey palace is still there, but there are some smart new accessories. The Main Bar on the ground floor is still suitable for knock-off drinks or even dinner with your open-minded parents (with a side of a drag queen cracking onto your dad); the rooftop is perfect for sunset cocktails and late-night libations (plus piping hot pizza); and the basement is still the place to head for a subterranean boogie with one of Sydney’s best queer party collectives. 

Time Out tip: Wednesday to Saturday, this icon is home to drag shows, trivia and bingo.

Address: 35 Erskineville Rd, Erskineville NSW 2043

What is it? A swanky behemoth of a Levant-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant lives above a CBD shopping complex.

Why we love it: So what if it's on top of a Westfield? You're smack bang in the centre of the city, which makes this massive Middle Eastern rooftop bar, lounge and restaurant a handy option to keep in your back pocket after a long day of shopping or if you're in need an al fresco hangout for after-work drinks.

Time Out tip: Cocktails have clever Levantine twists (cumin seeds, Turkish coffee, baklava caramel) and there's a solid menu of modern meze to keep your stomach lined, including a wicked duck gozleme.

Address: Level 7/188 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? Don’t be a rookie and hang around at street level; instead, take your mate (or your date) to The Rook, a sky-high rooftop bar located on York Street.

Why we love it: Here, you’ll walk through a flower-themed archway entrance and into the airy rooftop space. A fun option for bottomless brunches, friend lunches, or after-work knockoffs, The Rook is also known for its gin tastings and seasonal cocktails.

Time Out tip: Get your weekend off to a roaring start with the bar's late-night bottomless offering, held from 6:30-8:30pm each Friday.

Address: Level 7/56-58 York St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? Untied is a colourful rooftop oasis in Barangaroo’s sky. 

Why we love it: Expect tropical cocktails, a sun-dappled outdoor area and share-style dishes, including a solid selection of plant-based options. Taking cues from far North Queensland, it's got an Australiana vibe, but we're talking more rainforests and beachfronts than the outback and tinnies.

Time Out tip: Untied offers bottomless frosé for $59 per person, which includes two hours of free-flowing frosé.

Address: Level 4/400 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo NSW 2000

What is it? There’s something about being elevated and exposed to the elements that enhances a night on the tiles, so it's good news all round that the Republic Hotel has a rooftop bar called Taylors. 

Why we love it: If you head here around knock-off the place is packed with people who know what good tailoring looks like. This is the place to order up chilled glass tankards of Asahi, frosty Peronis or a crisp rosé.

Time Out tip: Head up on Saturday nights for house, disco and techno DJ sets.

Address: 69-73 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? It’s a long way to the top at this legendary corner pub, so our advice is to expedite the journey and bypass the bottom floor altogether.

Why we love it: Make your way to the top of this tower and be rewarded with tooth-freezingly cold frothy one and great views over the big city canopy.

Time Out tip: This is a top spot for craft beer lovers. Find out what's pouring now.

Address: 236 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000

What is it? Here's another Newtown gem to add to your collection, complete with its own chilled-out open rooftop overlooking the backstreets.

Why we love it: A friendly Newtown local haunt that is not much wider than its moniker suggests; they do long necks, local wines, a few craft beers, simple cocktails and a few fried nibblies. 

Time Out tip: You can get $8 pints daily until 8pm.

Address: 153A King St, Newtown NSW 2042

What is it? A quasi beach-club-style bar meets Mexican cantina.

Why we love it: The Cross began reimagining itself in 2021, but Sweethearts is a reliable classic. Get the squad together, head up the seven flights of stairs and spend the afternoon necking sunset cocktails.

Time Out tip: If the mood strikes, here's a spot you can indulge in a damn good tequila flight.

Address: 

Level 3/33-35 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point NSW 2011

What is it? Once a wizened watering hole for elderly gents and gig-goers spilling over from the nearby Gaelic Club, The Strawberry is now more of as a hipster hideaway following a snazzy refurbishment.

Why we love it: All the action is to be found upstairs out on the rooftop terrace that's open to the night sky. This cherished Surry Hills doesn't pretend to be too fancy, but that's why we love it.

Time Out tip: Head in on a Tuesday for $15 taco specials.

Address: 453 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills NSW 2010