As the name spells out, The Theatre Bar at the End of the Wharf is quite literally the bar at the end of the Wharf Theatres (Sydney Theatre Company). Walk along the wharf, past the theatres and the photos of productions past, and once you get to the end you'll be presented with a big bar with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour.
We like it because it's a slightly different view of the harbour than most of us are used to, because it looks back towards McMahons Point. You can sit indoors or out for a bevvie and even a meal, then go to the theatre – or don't.
Read on for an old review, written by Alexandra Middleton...
*****
Boasting exceptional views across Sydney Harbour, the team here could be forgiven for banking on their backdrop alone. Their real strength lies in the laid-back space they’ve created, where Foster’s tinnies cheers glasses of Perrier Grand Brut. Newtown-based brewery Young Henrys provide a seasonal selection on tap, too. And while they stand-alone from the Sydney Theatre Company (STC), they’re not afraid of a few theatrical cocktails.
The décor is simple, leaving the industrial space and impressive views to do the hard yards. Despite its high ceilings and worn timber flooring, the sizeable space is welcoming. Mismatched school-style wooden chairs are dotted around a mix of small and communal tables, giving you earshot access to groundbreaking theatre analysis if your own should fall short. Outdoor tables and lounges made from recycled packing crates are adorned with potted herb gardens, adding a touch of green to the venue.
Neon signs denoting food and drink lead the way to the designated white tiled bar and kitchen counters. The menu is perfectly designed for a quick pre-show dinner, with most dishes geared towards sharing. The ploughman’s platter is mindfully proportioned so not even a sliver of yours or your dining companion's hefty slice of sourdough goes without a spicy cured meat or cheese accompaniment. Resist the urge to down a wagyu and Gruyere slider in one bite and savour the sweet brioche bun, heavy with tangy relish and melted cheese.
This is a Walsh Bay, a win for the STC. So good, in fact, you may bypass the theatre altogether.
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