From gin bars to Irish pubs, grab a drink and enjoy the best bars and pubs in Surry Hills!
When we think of Surry Hills we think of fine food establishments and, of course, the iconic Foveaux Street. But, tucked between the stylish cafes, fashion boutiques, galleries and eateries, there’s handfuls of welcoming bars and pubs that are famed in Sydney’s drinking scene.
Whether they focus purely in just gin or tequila, has spent the past 10 years building up its reputation as one of the best Irish pubs in Sydney, or specialises in your standard pub fare, Surry Hills has it all.
So clear your schedule as we take you on a journey as we sip through this list of the best bars and pubs in Surry Hills for 2024!
Photographed by James Horan. Image via Destination NSW.
The Clock Hotel
Named after its iconic clock tower, The Clock Hotel has sat proudly on Crown Street in Surry Hills since 1863. With an award-winning cocktail bar and a wrap-around balcony looking down at the street below, this Surry Hills pub holds prime people-watching real estate. Once you’ve outgrown the beer, you can make your way back to the whisky room for a dram, where the bartender will help guide you through their collection of over 200 expressions. One of Sydney’s best pubs to have a drink at!
Image supplied.
The Dolphin Hotel
Walking through the doors of The Dolphin Hotel will have you tossing aside any previous conceptions of what it means to be a pub in 2024. With a chic, all white interior designed by George Livissianis, this gastro pub in Surry Hills resembles an art installation more than your typical local watering hole. The dining room is cased with monochrome graffiti, and swathes of white fabric drape the walls of the public bar. But what this tavern lacks in meat raffles and happy hour, it makes up for with their mouthwatering menu featuring a selection of hand-stretched pizza inspired by the flavours of northern Italy. Wash it all down with a cocktail and you’ll forget there was ever any other way.
Photographed by Adam Wilson. Image via Unsplash.
Dove & Olive
Sometimes a simple pub facade hides all sorts of tastes and eccentricities, and the Dove & Olive proves exactly that. They specialise in a neat selection of craft beers – from tap to tin and bottle – all ready to be matched with whatever pub classic meal that you fancy. Or, to make your decision easier, why not try a beer paddle? Even better, look out for Sydney’s original Craft Beer Fight Club hosted here, where you’ll be able to sample contenders and vote for your favourite.
Photographed by Jem Cresswell. Image via Destination NSW.
Four Pillars Laboratory
Opening their doors in 2020, Four Pillars Laboratory has been famed as being one of the best bars in Surry Hills. At their convenient location on Crown Street you’ll find plenty of things to explore. First and foremost, the Four Pillars Laboratory is their Sydney gin distillery. Then, there’s a designated area where guests can chat, buy and learn about all things gin. Finally, to appease your thirst, as you make your way into Eileen’s Bar, you’ll be treated to a world-class cocktail bar that focuses on concocting cocktails using their renowned creations. From classics to signature cocktails, gin and tonics, mixers and highballs, you’ll find all of this and more at the Four Pillars Laboratory.
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Hotel Harry
Hotel Harry is undoubtedly one of Surry Hills’ best kept secrets with colourful, Cuban-inspired decor bringing you just short of an overseas holiday. The menu is classic pub food and then some, with the welcome addition of taquitos, tacos and other Cuban-inspired dishes. And if the cocktail of the week isn’t enough to get you out and about on a weeknight, then their live Comedy at Harry’s every Monday is well-worth the hangover. Hanging off Wentworth Avenue, this is considered as one of the best hidden bars in Surry Hills, a must visit in 2024!
Photographed by Nikita Tikhomirov. Image via Unsplash.
Rosie Campbell's
Rosie Campbell’s is a vibrant and popular Caribbean-inspired bar and restaurant in Surry Hills. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and tropical vibes, Rosie Campbell’s offers a unique experience with its eclectic decor, featuring colorful murals and rustic furnishings. The menu is a delightful fusion of Caribbean flavours but the highlight is their extensive rum selection and creative cocktail menu that add to the tropical escapade. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening with friends or a lively night out, Rosie Campbell’s provides a taste of the Caribbean in the heart of Surry Hills, making it a favorite destination for those seeking a flavorful and festive dining experience.
Photographed by Dominic Loneragan. Image via Destination NSW.
The Rover
Opening as the Wild Rover before amending for a more domestic monicker, The Rover has spent the past 10 years building up its reputation as one of the best Irish pubs in Sydney. This modern take on a classic Irish whiskey bar has made a home in Sydney’s Surry Hills, with the banter and laughs on expects from a great Irish pub. Exchanging the down-to-earth atmosphere of Irish pubs for a more high-brow, sophisticated approach means a delicious seafood menu, classic cocktails and warm service. So grab a seat at this buzzy Irish bar and watch the night pass you by.
Photographed by Evan Dvorkin. Image via Unsplash.
Royal Albert Hotel
Royal Albert Hotel is an old-style pub, laden with everything you’d expect to see in one. But their lovely craft beer range brings them into the 21st century, sourced from breweries throughout the rough Australian landscape. In fact, their impressive beer list includes offerings from across Australia, New Zealand, USA and beyond. It’s no wonder why they are famed for being one of the best pubs in Surry Hills!
Photographed by Daniel Boud. Image via Destination NSW.
Tios Cervecería
Hanging off Foster Street in Surry Hills, Tios Cervecería is arguably one of the best tequila bars in Sydney. Described as a northwestern Guatemalan bar – where bartenders are more commonly known as tequila experts or connoisseurs – guests can expect that their visit to Tio’s to consist of a good lesson about the iconic spirit, a lot of tequila and a handful of the best and spiciest popcorn in town. With over 120 different spirits available, Tios Cervecería has it all. Clear your schedule for one of the best tequila and mezcal bars in Sydney!
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The Winery
Welcome to The Winery in Surry Hills! Here, on the weekends in the Champagne Room, there is an offer that is too hard to pass up. Think bottomless bellinis paired with a fabulous three-course menu for just $85 per person, with the likes of mini burgers and sweet potato fries taking centre stage on their food menu. Promising over two hours of unlimited drinks, you’ll be boozing up the weekend in style at The Winery.
For a creative concoction, sip your way through this list of The Top 10 Cocktail Bars in Sydney. Or set your sights to the skies with this guide to the 10 Best Rooftop Bars in Sydney of 2024.
