What Are The Best Underground Bars In Sydney?

Join us as we introduce you to the magic of Sydney's nightlife by exploring the city's best-kept secret: its underground pubs. Sydney's top underground pubs offer a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable drinking experience. These underground bars offer city dwellers an enticing mix of mystery, appeal, and excellent libations. Come with us as we explore the lesser-known spots that give Sydney's nightlife unique flavour. Learn the city's deepest, darkest secrets, and gain access to an array of hidden treats.

Best Underground Bars In Sydney

Apollonia

The tragic wife of Michael Corleone from Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 mafia masterpiece, The Godfather, has inspired the name of a cocktail bar in the basement of a heritage warehouse in Sydney's Central Business District. However, it would help if you didn't let that deter you. The good news is we can finally stop pretending we've seen The Godfather all these years. The entire plot is detailed on the beverages menu (spoilers included, but it has been 50 years).

Inn at Baxter

Trying to enter this hidden whisky bar has become virtually a sport in and of itself. Avoid the long lines by coming early or staying late to peruse one of the city's largest selections of the devil's beverage.

Double Deuce Lounge

You wouldn't know this 1970s-style "porno chic" bar existed beneath Bridge Street if not for the security guard or the short line of people waiting to get in. It's too bad because the good times are written big down here, complete with music reminiscent of Boogie Nights, booming cocktails, and top-notch chatter. 

To the Lobo

Lobo, located below ground in the middle of the city, has emerald walls, rattan lighting, and bentwood bar stools, all of which evoke the faded grandeur of a Caribbean summerhouse. Need to learn about rum drinks? You can get your education here.

Ramblin' Rascal Tavern

This dance club turned pub welcomes all comers for a wild night out. You can gulp a six-dollar tinnie or sip a Cognac, but don't stop serving the spicy, crunchy corn kernels. 

Mary's Underground

Relax, take it easy, enjoy the show, chow down on some rotisserie duck, and head home feeling completely stuffed. The night might go anywhere, so why not kick it off with a drink?

Employees Only

One of the first New York City speakeasies that inspired the rest of the world has set up shop in Sydney's central business district, with its trademark neon 'Psychic' logo, tarot card readings, and chicken soup served to devotees at midnight.

Palmer and Co

The late-night pub takes its prohibition-era theme extremely seriously, with a high, rounded bare-brick ceiling adorned with ancient mugshots of rum runners and bootleggers, gorgeous tiling, rare whiskies and rums, and lighting that bathes everyone in a grimy warm glow.

The Swinging Cat

This bar on King Street that takes its inspiration from New Orleans is visible. Almost no one knows that the Swinging Cat exists because it is tucked beneath a Subway. Even after a knock-off, the place is still packed, as Sydney's drinkers have a keen nose for quality liquor.

Stitch Bar

Even though the staff at this basement pub disguised as a seamstress won't be able to mend your ripped underwear, the dim lighting and tasty drinks should help you forget the embarrassing incident. 

We're at the Marble Bar

Below the Hilton Hotel, you'll find this stunning bar decorated with 100 tonnes of marble, nude paintings in the manner of the Renaissance, towering Corinthian columns, exquisite fireplaces, arches, and stained glass. It's a museum and a bar in one.

Rover, the Wild One

Irish ex-pats and Sydneysiders who enjoy Bloody Marys should check out The Wild Rover. The drink menu at this dive pub is just as whimsical as the animal print murals that adorn the club's exposed brick walls and low lighting. The Kilpatrick Bloody Mary is made with bacon-washed vodka and is one of the heaviest drinks on the menu. Sausage buns and oysters stave off hunger pangs.

The Saloon in Shady Pines

Shady Pines Saloon has a daring reputation but a stealthy entrance. The bar, located behind an inconspicuous entrance in a Darlinghurst alleyway, has just the right amount of liveliness. A popular hangout for locals in Sydney, this bar is known for its extensive cocktail menu, comfy oak booths, and free peanuts.

Pizza from Frankie's

Frankie's Pizza is the irresistible result of a collaboration between the boys of Shady Pines Saloon and The Baxter Inn and pizza. At first glance, this classic pizza parlour and bar could be any other modest Italian eatery. However, behind two discreet doors is a stage, pinball machines, booths, and a bar that stays lively till the wee hours of the morning. 

Drinks at Uncle Ming's

Red lanterns, tea lights, dim lighting, and fresh dumplings on tables tucked into the corners create an alluring atmosphere. Follow the incense fragrance down the stairs as if you were going to a suit store. Couples may expect to rub shoulders with businesspeople and intrepid partygoers at Uncle Ming's Bar. Sit at a cosy booth or perch at the bar to talk with the imaginative mixologists. 

Bar Stitches

This secret Sydney pub is above a seamstress shop and combines elements of a high-end cocktail lounge with a traditional American diner. You may find it below, near the sewing machines. There are booths with wallpaper made from torn newspapers, tables, candles, and a separate, quiet space. Stitch Bar is a nice place to chat with the locals or relax in one of the numerous dimly lit nooks. The Barry B Bitterman is a must-try, a mixture of whisky, Oscar 697 Rosso, Campari, and honey stored in beeswax-lined bottles.

Door Knock

It's warm and inviting without seeming crowded, like hanging out in a friend's stylish vacation home outfitted with a fireplace, carpets, couches, and lights. Door Knock has some excellent natural wines and delicious mojitos.

Proceed down the stairwell at 70 and along the long, dim hallway. A door can be found at the conclusion. Ring the brass pineapple bell three times...

Old Mate's Place

Get in the elevator with the security guard at 199 Clarence Street and greet him with a friendly "old mate" as you head up to the fourth level. The extra effort will not only be appreciated by him but will also be sufficient to gain entry to Old Mate's Place. Step inside to see a spacious area outfitted with ornate lighting, dangling plants, ancient books, and candles.

The frequency with which it is flourishing is high. If you get there early enough, you may enjoy the cityscape from a table on the little rooftop. At a more sedate time of night, curl up on a couch and peruse the bookcase. The drink menu changes, but rum and coconut are always safe.

Manly, The Cumberland

Isn't it great that Sydney has so many secret pubs that make you earn your drink? One of them is the Cumberland. Behind a refrigerator door in a lovely duck egg blue bodega-style deli, this hidden bar is the greatest on the northern beaches.

Descend the steps and enter a space exquisitely with rich timbers, antique antiques, and marble accents. In addition to more than 250 different kinds of whisky, there are many fine beers, wines, Champagnes, and tasty traditional and modern cocktails. Check out the 'Foraged & Found' section of the cocktail menu for drinks made with local ingredients.

Paddington, near Charlie Parker's

If you find yourself in Paddington and need help getting a table at Fred's, consider going down to the restaurant's quaint basement bar, which offers its share of decadent treats. Charlie Parker's has a cosy atmosphere thanks to its modest tables and exposed sandstone walls. Cocktails like the Watermelon & Cinnamon, which combines Hennessy VS, Goldielocks Gin, and Choc Mint, take advantage of the best seasonal ingredients and are enchanting.

Bar Papa Gedes

If you think a pirate's life sounds fun, visit Papa Gedes Bar, a rum-focused cocktail lounge named after the voodoo spirit of love and joy. There is little that can top a night out on the town. Look for a dark area along the alleyway with rocky stones and candles.

Inside, cocktails are fascinating to investigate further because of the unique names they are given. Don't worry; they taste just as nice as they look. Traditional ploughman's platters and spicy pig crackling are inexpensive and hearty treats.

Alice, The Rocks

Alice, from the same people who brought you Rockpool Bar & Grill and Spice Temple, is an exclusive, high-end speakeasy in the heart of Sydney that doesn't look like any other. Argyle Street's cobblestone section is where you'll find the unmarked gates of the former bond merchants.

The VIP section, with its velvet booths and various luxurious textiles, marble and gold embellishments, rich oak beams, and exclusive feel, is straight out of the Golden Age of Hollywood. You can expect genuinely spectacular prizes, however, because the drinks are new and the people who work with those places make the cuisine. A range of fantastic alcoholic beverages is led by Alice Spritz, made by blending aromatized wine, prosecco, and blackberry shrub. Snacks and pizzas with a Japanese twist are also available.

The CBD Rook

The Rook is an airy sanctuary well worth the climb to its rooftop location in the Central Business District. The lofty atmosphere of this late-night "institution" can be felt as soon as the elevator doors to 56-58 York Street open. This pub is great year-round because of its atrium-style tractable ceiling, which provides patrons with views of the cityscape and the stars.

Drinks range from mezcal and honey concoctions to tropical fruit-filled tiki drinks, a "Spritz Me Baby One More Time" since there is no such thing as too much and an authentic "Spaghetti Western" prepared with bourbon, Amaro Averna, and Amaretto. Fish tacos, fried chicken burgers, duck tostadas, and lobster rolls are just some of the dishes influenced by Southern California. In addition, we provide several other pasta meals.

CBD, Pamela's

The underground disco at Prince of York is just one of many electric surprises at this bar that takes its cues from the Berlin of the 1970s and 1980s. Pamela's is the idea of Ed Loveday and Andy Emerson, respectively, of The Passage and ACME, and is located underneath an all-day wine bar.

Pamela's is a bustling metropolis below deck, complete with whirling disco balls, flashing lights, plush booths, and questionable wall art. With everything from drag brunch and late-night DJs to stand-up comedy and bingo, this party will have everything, including dancing on tables, punk music, late hours, and tequila sold by the bottle. 

Conclusion 

Sydney's underground pubs offer a unique and unforgettable drinking experience, with hidden treats and hidden gems. Some of the best underground bars in Sydney include Apollo, the Inn at Baxter, Double Deuce Lounge, Lobo, Ramblin' Rascal Tavern, Mary's Underground, Employees Only, Palmer and Co, The Swinging Cat, Stitch Bar, Marble Bar, The Wild Rover, The Saloon in Shady Pines, Frankie's Pizza, Uncle Ming's Bar, and Bar Stitches.

Apollonia, inspired by the tragic wife of Michael Corleone from Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 mafia masterpiece, is a cocktail bar in the basement of a heritage warehouse in Sydney's Central Business District. The Inn at Baxter is a hidden whisky bar, while Double Deuce Lounge is a 1970s-style "porno chic" bar. The Swinging Cat, a dance club turned pub, takes its inspiration from New Orleans and is hidden beneath a Subway. The Marble Bar, a stunning bar decorated with 100 tonnes of marble, nude paintings, Corinthian columns, fireplaces, arches, and stained glass, is a museum and a bar in one.

The Wild Rover is a dive pub with a whimsical drink menu, including the Kilpatrick Bloody Mary made with bacon-washed vodka. The Saloon in Shady Pines has a daring reputation but a stealthy entrance, making it a popular hangout for locals. Frankie's Pizza is a collaboration between the boys of Shady Pines Saloon and The Baxter Inn, offering a classic pizza parlour and bar. Uncle Ming's Bar is a hidden gem with red lanterns, tea lights, dim lighting, and fresh dumplings. Bar Stitches is a secret Sydney pub that combines elements of a high-end cocktail lounge with a traditional American diner.

Stitch Bar, Door Knock, Old Mate's Place, Manly, The Cumberland, Fred's, Papa Gedes Bar, Alice, The Rocks, CBD Rook, and Pamela's are some of the hidden bars in Sydney that offer a variety of drinks and experiences. Stitch Bar is a cozy space with booths made from torn newspapers, tables, candles, and a separate, quiet space. The Barry B Bitterman is a must-try, a mixture of whisky, Oscar 697 Rosso, Campari, and honey stored in beeswax-lined bottles. Door Knock is warm and inviting, with natural wines and delicious mojitos. Old Mate's Place is a hidden bar with rich timbers, antique antiques, and marble accents, offering over 250 different whisky, fine beers, wines, Champagnes, and traditional and modern cocktails.

Paddington's basement bar offers decadent treats, with cocktails like the Watermelon & Cinnamon, which combines Hennessy VS, Goldielocks Gin, and Choc Mint. Papa Gedes Bar is a rum-focused cocktail lounge named after the voodoo spirit of love and joy. Alice, the same people who brought Rockpool Bar & Grill and Spice Temple, is an exclusive, high-end speakeasy in the heart of Sydney. The VIP section, with velvet booths, luxurious textiles, marble and gold embellishments, rich oak beams, and an exclusive feel, offers spectacular prizes for drinks made by the people who work with these establishments.

The CBD Rook is an airy sanctuary with a lofty atmosphere, offering views of the cityscape and stars. Drinks range from mezcal and honey concoctions to tropical fruit-filled tiki drinks, a "Spritz Me Baby One More Time," and authentic "Spaghetti Western" prepared with bourbon, Amaro Averna, and Amaretto. Pamela's is an underground disco bar that takes cues from the Berlin of the 1970s and 1980s. The party offers everything from drag brunch and late-night DJs to stand-up comedy and bingo, with dancing on tables, punk music, late hours, and tequila sold by the bottle.

Content Summary:

• Join us as we introduce you to the magic of Sydney's nightlife by exploring the city's best-kept secret: its underground pubs.
• Sydney's top underground pubs offer a one-of-a-kind and unforgettable drinking experience.
• These underground bars offer city dwellers an enticing mix of mystery, appeal, and excellent libations.
• Come with us as we explore the lesser-known spots that give Sydney's nightlife unique flavour.
• Learn the city's deepest, darkest secrets, and gain access to an array of hidden treats.
• The tragic wife of Michael Corleone from Francis Ford Coppola's 1972 mafia masterpiece, The Godfather, has inspired the name of a cocktail bar in the basement of a heritage warehouse in Sydney's Central Business District.
• One of the first New York City speakeasies that inspired the rest of the world has set up shop in Sydney's central business district, with its trademark neon 'Psychic' logo, tarot card readings, and chicken soup served to devotees at midnight.
• The late-night pub takes its prohibition-era theme extremely seriously, with a high, rounded bare-brick ceiling adorned with ancient mugshots of rum runners and bootleggers, gorgeous tiling, rare whiskies and rums, and lighting that bathes everyone in a grimy warm glow.
• This bar on King Street that takes its inspiration from New Orleans is visible.
• It's a museum and a bar in one.
• Rover, the Wild One Irish ex-pats and Sydneysiders who enjoy Bloody Marys should check out The Wild Rover.
• Shady Pines Saloon has a daring reputation but a stealthy entrance.
• A popular hangout for locals in Sydney, this bar is known for its extensive cocktail menu, comfy oak booths, and free peanuts.
• Couples may expect to rub shoulders with businesspeople and intrepid partygoers at Uncle Ming's Bar.
• This secret Sydney pub is above a seamstress shop and combines elements of a high-end cocktail lounge with a traditional American diner.
• Stitch Bar is a nice place to chat with the locals or relax in one of the numerous dimly lit nooks.
• It's warm and inviting without seeming crowded, like hanging out in a friend's stylish vacation home outfitted with a fireplace, carpets, couches, and lights.
• Door Knock has some excellent natural wines and delicious mojitos.
• Ring the brass pineapple bell three times... Old Mate's Place Get in the elevator with the security guard at 199 Clarence Street and greet him with a friendly "old mate" as you head up to the fourth level.
• The drink menu changes, but rum and coconut are always safe.
• In addition to more than 250 different kinds of whisky, there are many fine beers, wines, Champagnes, and tasty traditional and modern cocktails.
• Check out the 'Foraged & Found' section of the cocktail menu for drinks made with local ingredients.
• If you find yourself in Paddington and need help getting a table at Fred's, consider going down to the restaurant's quaint basement bar, which offers its share of decadent treats.
• Charlie Parker's has a cosy atmosphere thanks to its modest tables and exposed sandstone walls.
• If you think a pirate's life sounds fun, visit Papa Gedes Bar, a rum-focused cocktail lounge named after the voodoo spirit of love and joy.
• There is little that can top a night out on the town.
• Look for a dark area along the alleyway with rocky stones and candles.
• Traditional ploughman's platters and spicy pig crackling are inexpensive and hearty treats.
• Alice, The Rocks Alice, from the same people who brought you Rockpool Bar & Grill and Spice Temple, is an exclusive, high-end speakeasy in the heart of Sydney that doesn't look like any other.
• You can expect genuinely spectacular prizes, however, because the drinks are new and the people who work with those places make the cuisine.
• Snacks and pizzas with a Japanese twist are also available.
• The Rook is an airy sanctuary well worth the climb to its rooftop location in the Central Business District.
• Fish tacos, fried chicken burgers, duck tostadas, and lobster rolls are just some of the dishes influenced by Southern California.
• CBD, Pamela's The underground disco at Prince of York is just one of many electric surprises at this bar that takes its cues from the Berlin of the 1970s and 1980s.
• Pamela's is the idea of Ed Loveday and Andy Emerson, respectively, of The Passage and ACME, and is located underneath an all-day wine bar.
• Pamela's is a bustling metropolis below deck, complete with whirling disco balls, flashing lights, plush booths, and questionable wall art.
• With everything from drag brunch and late-night DJs to stand-up comedy and bingo, this party will have everything, including dancing on tables, punk music, late hours, and tequila sold by the bottle.