From sunrise to sunset: Here’s the perfect day in Stanley Street

Start your morning like the locals by paying a visit to Bill and Toni’s. It’s been almost half a century since this Stanley Street landmark opened, but you can still taste the Italian passion and history in every coffee. The 6.30am early birds will have no problem nabbing an alfresco seat in the downstairs café where they can tuck into ham and cheese croissants, or bocconcini and tomato Turkish bread sandwiches, alongside a short black, flat white or cappuccino. 

In the heart of Stanley Street lies this multi-disciplinary exhibition space that champions early career and established artists in the commercial sector. You can explore the intersection of craft and art with Stanley Street Gallery’s rotating exhibitions. Still life artist Margaret Ackland’s Tipping Point is on exhibit from August 9 to September 2, followed by ceramicist Shaun Hayes from September 18 to November 7, and photographer Zorica Purlija’s The Fall from October 18 to November 11.

There’s a lot more to bottomless lunch than free-flowing drinks. Harry's by Giuls puts on an incredible Milanese spread of share plates from Friday to Sunday with green olives, burrata la stella, shoestring fries, Harry’s famous pizza bread and a selection of cured meats. Save room for the pizza or pasta of the day, then relax into the afternoon with bottomless Aperol Spritz, Mimosas, Espresso Martinis and house wine. 

When the food coma hits, head to Hyde Park for a lazy afternoon stroll. (We won’t judge if you opt for a nap instead). Located just off Stanley Street, this is Australia’s oldest public park and ticks all the boxes with green grass, shady trees and tinkling fountains. Hyde Park is also home to the Anzac Memorial with free one-hour guided tours on Wednesdays and Sundays at 10.30am. 

Watch the sun go down with a Margarita in hand at Bar Nina’s daily happy hour from 4-6pm. Sitting pretty on the corner of Stanley Street and Crown Street, this is the perfect place to people-watch as Darlinghurst transforms into a buzzing nightlife zone. There’s $7 prosecco, white, rosé and red wine to start you off, $7 beers on tap, and $10 Aperol Spritz and Margaritas. You might as well stay for dinner while you’re there and we suggest ordering a selection of small plates to share, including calamari fritti, mushroom arancini, cheeseburger sliders, and tuna tartar tostadas.

Alternatively, hit up La Farmacia for authentic Mexican tacos, cooked in traditional Guadalajara style and served any way you like (build your own or leave it to the chef). The Mexican maestros also shake up a huge list of Margaritas, along with more than 50 mezcal and tequilas. Dig your heels in and listen to loud, proud Mexican beats while you drink and dine.

Roll on down ‘Sunset Boulevard’ to Stanley’s for a night of DJs, dancing and drinks. This petite party spot features an ever-changing line-up of respected local DJs, which lean disco and house. Cocktails are just as fun and freewheeling, from frozen Passionfruit Coladas to a Banana Rum Old Fashioned, and Cucumber and Jalapeño Margarita. You won’t want to leave when the lights come on at midnight.