Steven Woodburn
If there’s one thing us Sydney-siders love to indulge in, it’s letting the hours fly by with some great company, nibblies and a wine (or two or three) in our hands.
But while there’s nothing better than unwinding in the comfort of your own home, lockdown has definitely renewed our appreciation for an outing—no washing? No hosting? Yes, please.
And with many establishments slowly opening their doors back up to the public, we’re no longer limited in our options.
So, for killer atmosphere, premium drops and delicious bar snacks, here are the best wine bars in Sydney to get you back into your social groove.
10 William St, Paddington
Located in the heart of Paddington, this cosy wine bar has a waiting list for a good reason.
With a bottomless list of top quality natural wines and Italian food, there’s a lot going for this bar.
Wine Room, Coogee
Just a stone’s throw from the beach, this industrial-style wine bar is the perfect spot for a post-swim drink.
Gorge on the seasonal Mediterranean-inspired food menu or choose a wine you’ve never tried before. Although, with over 400 wines from all around the world stocked, you might struggle to make a decision.
Poly, Surry Hills
From the people that gifted us with Ester, comes this not-a-restaurant.
Located in Paramount House Hotel, the bar has an easy-going vibe that is great for groups.
With a 160-strong wine list filled with mostly organic and biodynamic wines, this one is great for lovers of natural wine. 25 are even available by the glass. But even those that are wine-averse can delight in the artisanal beers, spirits and cocktails on offer.
Love, Tilly Devine, Darlinghurst
Named after the notorious crime boss, this hidden bar is a laid-back cosy spot for two.
Boasting an ever-changing menu of fine dining-esque eats and a 300-strong wine list, you’ll never be short of options.
Get a spot inside if you’re lucky, or simply grab a seat in the laneway.
Dear Saint Eloise, Potts Point
From the same brains behind Love, Tilly Devine, comes Dear Saint Eloise in Potts Point.
This wine bar is a little different from its sister establishment, focusing on minimal intervention wines and celebrating young and experimental winemakers shaking up the industry.
Bibo Wine Bar, Double Bay
Elegant and relaxed, this food and wine bar is a low-key spot for an evening hangout.
With food and wine inspired by Portuguese cuisine, it’s also great for anyone in need of a little travel.
The Winery, Surry Hills
The ultimate crowd-pleaser, this expansive bar and restaurant is the versatile choice for larger (or more indecisive) groups. With a huge wine and food list in a very convenient location, you can’t go wrong.
Enjoy a jug of Pimms under fairy lights in the garden or head upstairs for a more romantic ambience.
Tucked away at the top of Oxford St, near Centennial Park, this bar may be on the smaller side but is chocked full of incredible wine options—with a focus on natural varieties.
And, for those who fancy themselves a bit of a sommelier, the Wine Library offers free drinks to anyone that can prevail in their ‘blind pour’ challenge.
Where’s Nick, Marrickville
Primarily specialising in sustainably-produced natural wines, this Inner West bar is a fun and un-pretentious spot to indulge in some good food, wine and, of course, company.
Oh and bonus, you can shop for a bottle too!
Ash St. Cellar, Sydney
Situated in a laneway in the hub of the CBD, Merivale’s Ash St. Cellar is the go-to for after work drinks.
With both bar and bistro seating and everything from light Spanish tapas to heartier meals in the food department, it’s a guaranteed good time.
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