Our favourite thing about Zeta Bar, the smart and slick cocktail bar in Hilton Sydney, is the open-air terrace that looks across the green copper domes of the Queen Victoria Building directly opposite. It’s a cracking spot to knock back a bottle of Champagne with your friends during the day when the sun is shining. Come night, when the QVB is lit up looking grand and regal, the space feels romantic. Inside, the dark leather seats, flicking fireplace and low lights adds to its charm.
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Zeta Bar has been a part of Sydney’s drinking scene since opening in 2005. Recently, it’s undergone a glow-up, introducing a brand-new cocktail menu crafted by expert mixologist Grant Collins of Gin Lane and Dry Martini. Highlights include the Salary Man (vodka, elderflower, pressed yuzu, lychee and prosecco, served with an edible dollar bill); the Summer Spritz (Aperol, peach liqueur, fresh passionfruit, coconut, pink grapefruit, lemon, prosecco and mint); and the Cocomango (vodka, fresh-pressed mango, mango liqueur, macadamia and lime-coconut ‘air’). Are you a fan of Bond’s signature drink? There’s a full page dedicated to Martinis, served from Zeta’s Martini Trolley.
Given Zeta’s prime location in the heart of the city, it’s a stellar choice for a date or after-work drinks. During happy hour (daily, 5-7pm), you can snap up $15 cocktails, $12 wines and $10 beers. There’s also Vinyl and Martini Thursdays, featuring $15 Martinis soundtracked to DJs spinning vinyl tunes.
Need a snack? The food menu features Sydney rock oysters; grilled prawn skewers; spiced squid with ’nduja mayo and lemon; chorizo with smoked paprika, tomato, peppers and garlic; and a charcuterie board loaded with soft cured meats, zingy pickles and sourdough.
Planning a staycation? The Hilton Sydney is a solid choice, putting you smack-bang in the middle of the city. With Zeta Bar and the swish Glass Brasserie mere minutes from your room, you might not need to step outside – except to enjoy Zeta’s breezy terrace, Champagne in hand.
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