If you’ve come to Sydney’s bustling CBD for the first time, it might be a bit daunting to wander down every dark alleyway you come across in hunt of great bites and drinks. Who do I ask? Where do I start? What does Sydney even have to offer me? Don’t worry - I’ll let you in on three little secrets that will guarantee your search for the city’s hidden bars to be one of success.
Employee’s Only
Image credit: Employee's Only
Sometimes the best places are hidden in plain sight and Employee’s Only is no exception. Tucked away under sandstone blocks, the only indication of this bustling bar is the neon red “psychic” sign. However, once you descend the stairs, you’re met with a perfectly crafted blend of moody lighting and exciting ambience. The main bar is surrounded by candle-lit tables so the bedazzling burlesque dancers that appear on Fridays and Saturdays steal the spotlight of the entire room.
The drinks and dishes of Employees Only reflect quality. And while this can manifest into some high prices, there is one catch that has given this place a permanent spot on my mid-week outing list. Until the end of October, everything on the menu is 50% off on Tuesdays, Wednesdays on Thursdays between 5pm and 6pm. This is a happy hour that is definitely worth it as I found myself ordering multiple shared dishes and cocktails that amounted to $75 AUD in total.
In terms of food, the burrata and truffled mac and cheese were the clear winners of the night. However, having the steak tartare presented and mixed at our table added points to presentation and quality. In summary, for the price you can pay at happy hour, I’m not sure if there is better quality food you can get in Sydney. Pair your meal with one of their specialty cocktails to truly make the most of your time here.
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Cantina OK!
Image credit: author
I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I told you that I think about this bar’s margaritas at least once a day. Cantina Ok! describes itself as a “Micro Mezcal Mecca”. If you don’t know what mezcal is, think of it as tequila’s older, refined sibling. In fact, they both come from agave. Cantina Ok!’s drink menu is one that you will be ordering from more than once - and you would be cruel to not finish your stay with a shot of high-quality tequila.
"I wouldn’t be exaggerating if I told you that I think about this bar’s margaritas at least once a day"
In terms of what to order, you cannot go wrong with the classic Margarita Ok! It contains the signature mix of tequila and mezcal to evoke a complex flavour, finished with orange oil and lime. Cantina Ok! prides this drink on the fact that due to the ever-changing source of mezcal, the flavour of this drink is constantly evolving which adds a new layer of excitement every time you return.
Do not be afraid of the squishy, shoulder-to-shoulder nature of this bar. It’s tiny but mighty as you are going to be up close and personal with the bartenders who will make your night by introducing themselves and providing exceptional service. When I told them of my night plans, they did not hesitate to offer insider knowledge of what Sydney has to offer. By the time you walk out of the laneway, you’ll be just as obsessed with this place as I am.
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Palmer & Co
Image credit: Palmer & Co
Nestled between Mr. Wong’s and the Tank Stream Bar, Palmer & Co will take you back to the 1920s with its prohibition style. You will find yourself following a never-ending staircase down to ancient sandstone walls lined with wanted posters, prison chains and other extensive decor. Featuring an elaborate cocktail menu, this place is great for pre-gaming a night out or finishing your club crawl with a drink in this moody, bunker-like bar. The bill can stack up quite high after a few drinks so I recommend sticking to one if you’re on a budget, however since each drink is an experience in itself, you won’t be too disappointed. A light, fruity cocktail such as Party Girl With a Bad Habit is my go-to vodka-infused cocktail however the bartenders here have also mastered the stronger spirits including the rum-based Voodoo Child.
For eats, the charcuterie board is the best way to get the most food out of your experience and was the best dish offered in my experience. A board for 4 will run you $54, which is the perfect meal to send you on a night in the CBD with a full stomach. This secret pre-drink hideaway is therefore the perfect kickstarter or finisher to your evening.
🌐 merivale.com/venues/palmerandco/
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