Darling Harbour Bars: Sip in Style at 10 of the Best in 2024

If you’re looking for somewhere to pull up a pew and enjoy a cocktail, there really is no better destination to let your hair down than the iconic Darling Harbour bars scene.

With the city skyscrapers behind you and the buzz of tourists, office workers and Sydneysiders making their way along the harbourside suburb, this truly is where it all happens. Whether you’re finally locking in that long-awaited date night, you’re wanting to catch a summer sunset on a rooftop with the crew or you’ve gathered the gals together for a catch-up, we’ve got eight incredible Darling Harbour bars for you to check out this summer. 

Darling Harbour Bars: Sip in Style at 10 of the Best in 2024

1. Cafe Del Mar

Step inside Cafe Del Mar overlooking Cockle Bay Wharf, and you’ll be transported to the depths of the Mediterranean Sea.

This sophisticated Darling Harbour bar and restaurant has left no shell unturned when it comes to its ocean theming, with nautical blue drapery and octopus-like lighting at every turn. Head out to the terrace, enjoy the DJ and sip on their signature sangria as the harbour swings into motion.

Location: 35 Wheat Road, Sydney

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2. Bungalow 8

This Sydney institution has earned its stripes as being one of the most lively go-to Darling Harbour bars.

For a day or night out to remember, plant yourself out on the Bungalow 8 terrace with a group of girlfriends and get stuck into one of their extremely tropical cocktail concoctions.

They also have a menu full of moreish share plates, sides and snacks to line the stomach before the dancing starts. Once the evening kicks into overdrive, you’ll hear about it when the music turns up, and the dancing starts. 

Location: 3 Lime Street, Sydney

3. Zephyr

If you’re searching for a chic rooftop bar to accommodate your date night, the Zephyr Bar on level 12 of the Hyatt Regency Hotel is the luxury location for you.

The sprawling Darling Harbour views are enough to entice you to visit, but their selection of cocktails, spirits, wine and craft beer will keep you there for hours. The experienced mixologists at Zephyr will whip you up a Noble Gold Martini, a Royal Passionfruit Mojito or a Pomegranate Basil Gimlet - all worth trying (and all worth getting seconds!).

Location: Level 12/161 Sussex Street, Sydney

4. Cargo Bar

When you hear Cargo Bar, you immediately conjure up visions of dancing until your feet hurt. If you like your Darling Harbour bars with a side of good old-fashioned revelling, then this is just the ticket.

With DJs every night and a Sunday soul session, you won’t be short of entertainment. You can order tasty nibbles from their Americana-inspired menu and of course, their cocktail jugs will keep the merriment flowing all night long.

Location: 52-60 The Promenade, Sydney

5. Alegre Bar and Dining

Escape to the beating heart of Tulum right in the heart of Darling Harbour at Alegre Bar and Dining.

A taste of Tulum is not just evident from the incredible decor but also the incredible menu. Barbacoa, fresh tacos, mezcal cocktails, and vibey beats are on the menu at Darling Harbour's up-market Mexican bar and restaurant. Andale!

Location: 2 Lime Street

6. The Loft

The swanky older sister of Bungalow 8 lives just upstairs and is here to give you a slightly more sophisticated harbourside evening.

Situated in King Street Wharf, this Darling Harbour bar is perfect for grabbing a drink with an almost birdseye view of the water. Dine on Natural Sydney Rock Oysters and sip on one of their delicious cocktails that have been carefully curated by a team of trendy mixologists.

Location: 3 Lime Street, Sydney

7. The Sporting Globe

If your prerequisites for the best Darling Harbour bars are good drinks, good food, and live sporting events, then head straight to The Sporting Globe at King Street Wharf.

The Sporting Globe is often touted as one of the best sports bars in Sydney, where you can grab an incredible pub feed, watch your favourite game, and hang out with mates all in the one spot. If you're visiting with the kids, The Sporting Globe have kids' eat free deals from Monday to Tuesday!

Location: King Street Wharf, 22 The Promenade

8. Helm Bar

Head to Helm Bar for a casual rooftop experience that is the ideal Darling Harbour location for after-work drinks, catching up with friends or grabbing a drink after a cruisy Sunday exploring the city.

Pull up a chair on their sunny rooftop deck and grab some food from their extensive bistro menu. 

Location: 7 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour

9. Above 319

This chic Darling Harbour bar provides all the elements for a night out with the girls. Situated on the rooftop of the Vibe Hotel, Above 319 captures the inner city vibe mixed with the buzz of Darling Harbour.

This is a cocktail bar in every sense, with open-plan couches, a delicious menu of drinks and urban decor carefully designed to set the scene for a good time. Drop by for a drink, then make your way to one of the many top-rated restaurants nearby.

Location: 319-325 Sussex Street, Sydney

10. Champagne Bar

If you’re looking for somewhere special to celebrate an anniversary or birthday, or to simply treat your partner, then Champagne Bar is certain to impress.

This rooftop Darling Harbour bar sits inside the Sofitel Hotel and is guaranteed to give you the glamorous evening you were hoping for. Sip champagne by the glass or go big by ordering a bottle from their considerable menu. If you’d prefer a tipple of another kind, they also serve wine, beer and signature cocktails.

Location: 12 Darling Drive, Sydney

Hero image: Above 319 at Vibe Hotel

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