Choosing the perfect spot for a date, especially a first date, requires careful consideration. You want an intimate ambiance, softly lit, and offers quiet corners or cozy booths to share moments away from the hustle and bustle.

If you’re looking for the most romantic bars in Sydney city, look no further. We’ve curated a perfect list with all the details you need. Many of these venues are great for romantic evenings & also ideal as first date bars in Sydney. 

Discover the best places to set the mood and create lasting memories with your special someone in this stunning city. All the bars we listed in this blog are perfect as first date bars in Sydney. 

Romantic bars in Sydney

Bar 1880

First one in our list of romantic bars in Sydney is Bar 1880.

Bar 1880 is a charming addition to Sydney’s cocktail bar collection. Bar 1880 takes you on a journey from the 1880s to the modern era, mixing the old with the new. On the ground floor, you will find the Headline Bar, a lively and upbeat space where you can enjoy socializing and season-driven cocktails.

Step into upstairs, where you will find the Press Room bar. It offers a delight for the senses with an expansive menu of signature and old-timer cocktails and a wide selection of premium spirits. 

The Press Room Bar is not just a place to drink. It’s an experience that brings you to an ancient era where every sip tells a story. Both bars at Bar 1880 are available for bookings and private functions, providing the perfect location for special celebrations or gatherings. 

Bar 1880 is one of the best romantic bars in Sydney, where you can have a loving time with your special someone. Whether you seek a vibrant night out at The Headline Bar or a more intimate and exclusive experience at The Press Room Bar, Bar 1880 has something for everyone.

Visit Bar 1880, a perfect bar in Sydney for those who are looking good places to drink in Sydney, where the past meets the present and where each cocktail is a unique journey through time and flavor. You can contact them to make reservations or learn more about hosting your event with them. Visit Bar 1880, one of the best romantic bars in Sydney, and get a lifetime experience. 

Contact-

info@bar1880.com

Visit Website

Open hours-

The Headline bar: Tuesday-Saturday 4 pm-late

The Press Room bar: Tuesday-Saturday 5 pm-late

Bar Lucia

Welcome to Bar Lucia, a wine bar where the spirit of Madrid meets a touch of nature, creating a relaxed Spanish vibe in the heart of the city. With architecture reminiscent of the charming streets of Madrid, Bar Lucia invites you to experience the laid-back atmosphere of Spain.

For the best experience on busy Friday and Saturday nights, they recommend booking your table in advance. However, if you’re planning a more spontaneous visit earlier in the week, there’s usually space for walk-ins.

Their menus are thoughtfully crafted and may change based on the freshest seasonal ingredients to ensure the best flavors in every dish. Don’t miss out on Happy Hour, from Wednesday to Friday, between 5 pm and 6:30 pm. It’s the perfect time to unwind with friends and enjoy delightful drinks and bites.

Visit Bar Lucia, where the essence of Spain and a warm ambiance come together for a fantastic dining and drinking experience. The ambiance at Bar Lucia makes it one of the best romantic bars in Sydney city. 

Open hours

Wednesday & Thursday:5 pm to 11 pm

Friday: 5 pm to 12 am

Saturday: 12 pm to 12 am

Sunday: 12 pm to 10 pm

Contact-

info@barlucia.com.au

02 7226 8802

Location- 5, Kellett Street, Potts Point, NSW 2011

Get direction- Click

ANTE

Step into the world of ANTE, a sake bar that promises a unique experience for seasoned sake enthusiasts and those new to this delightful Japanese tradition.

Here, you’ll find an extensive sake selection, showcasing over 65 sake varieties from 21 different breweries across Japan. Some of Australia’s finest sake graces their list, offering a taste of the exceptional.

As you explore their menu, you’ll discover dishes perfectly crafted to complement your sake journey. The menu is designed for sharing, and ANTE is more than happy to accommodate specific dietary requirements, ensuring everyone can savor the experience.

ANTE is more than just sake. They also offer a diverse selection of cocktails, beers, spirits, and low/non-alcoholic options to suit every palate.

Looking for an exclusive experience? ANTE opens its doors for private events on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays. 

Located on the vibrant King Street, ANTE stands as a haven for sake lovers and is one of the finest romantic bars in Sydney city. Whether it’s your first date or a special evening with your loved one, ANTE has all the ingredients for a memorable night out.

Address- 146 King Street, Newtown, NSW 2042

Open hours-

Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday: Closed

Thursday: 5 pm-late night

Friday: 5 pm-late night

Saturday: 5 pm-late night

Sunday: 5 pm-late night

LANA

Lana, nestled in the heart of Sydney at the historic Hinchcliff House, is one of the most romantic bars in Sydney city, perfect for your dream date night. Lana is among the good places to drink in Sydney.

Here, you’ll find a blend of effortless, modern Italian dining infused with tantalizing Asian flavors, all featuring the finest Australian produce. Lana offers a lively and playful dining experience inspired by Italian and Asian cuisine. From shareable dishes to customizable options, their menus cater to all tastes.

But it’s not just about the food; Lana boasts a cocktail menu that is inspired by the seasons. Sip on seasonal cocktails and timeless classics like the Tommy’s Margarita and Apollonia Negroni, or choose from a selection of beer, cider, and alcohol-free beverages. They even craft their wines.

Lana sets the stage for an intimate date night, providing a private setting away from the crowd. The ambiance strikes the perfect balance between sophistication and joy. You’ll find yourself in a beautifully designed space, so you can focus on enjoying your time together.

Their thoughtfully crafted menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that you get to taste the finest produce each season has to offer.

Whether you’re planning a premium, intimate dinner or a lively cocktail party, Lana is ready to make your evening unforgettable. From romantic moments to lively celebrations, Lana has everything you need to create lasting memories.

Opening Hours

Closed Monday & Sunday.

Tuesday: 5 pm-11pm

Wednesday: 5 pm – 11pm

Thursday: 12 pm – 2:30 pm, 5 – 11 pm

Friday: 12 pm – 2:30 pm, 5 pm – 11pm

Saturday: 12 pm – 2:30 pm, 5 pm – 11pm

Contact-

Visit Website

02 7228 1400

lana@hinchcliffhouse.com

Address: Level 1, Hinchcliff House, 5-7 Young Street, Sydney, 2000

Get directions: Click

Kasbah

Kasbah is one of the best rooftop bars Sydney, perfect for your dreamy date night. 

At Kasbah, the sunsets over the city skyline gracefully transition into the evening, setting the stage for a memorable experience. This stunning rooftop bar, nestled atop the Strand Hotel in Darlinghurst, offers sweeping views of the city skyline. 

The ambiance is nothing short of dreamy, drawing inspiration from the colors and vibrancy of Marrakesh. Imagine pastel lounges, vibrant tiles, Persian rugs, and lush greenery that transport you to a world of Moroccan and Mediterranean charm.

With white linen couches thoughtfully arranged to accommodate larger groups and intimate gatherings and the soulful sounds of Balearic funk and soul in the background, Kasbah provides the perfect setting for a settle-in for a wonderful time and perhaps a long one.

When it comes to dining, Kasbah’s grazing menu makes it hard to choose just one dish, but it’s designed for sharing, so why not order a little bit of everything? And the drinks? They offer a selection of adventurous cocktails curated by Maybe Sammy, crisp craft beers, and a delightful array of natural wines.

Kasbah welcomes walk-ins and online bookings, ensuring a hassle-free experience. You can access this rooftop paradise through the main hotel entrance on William Street via the hotel staircase. Conveniently located just an 8-minute walk from Kings Cross train station, 10 minutes from Sydney CBD, and a mere 2 km from the iconic Sydney Opera House, Kasbah is your go-to destination for a romantic and unforgettable night out in Sydney.

Open hours

• Thursday – Friday from 4 pm to Midnight
• Saturday 1 pm to Midnight
• Sunday from 1 pm to 10 pm

Address: 99, William Street, Darlinghurst, NSW, 2021

Contact: 02 9068 8527

Big Poppa’s

Big Poppa’s is the ultimate destination for couples who share a love for hip-hop and RnB, making it one of the perfect romantic bars in Sydney for your date night.

Situated on the lively Oxford Street in Darlinghurst, Big Poppa’s is an award-winning late-night restaurant that serves up modern Italian dishes, gourmet cheeses, a vast selection of hand-curated wines, and non-stop hip-hop music until 3 a.m. every night of the week.

For a memorable date night experience, venture down the narrow staircase to discover a cozy, candle-lit room adorned with soft leather booths and dark timber tables. Here, you can taste gourmet cheese and charcuterie while sharing a bottle of wine, all set to the backdrop of an old-school ’90s soundtrack.

Upstairs, you’ll find an Italian restaurant with a classic black-and-white aesthetic, accented by Chianti bottles that add character to the atmosphere. Meanwhile, downstairs boasts a more cocktail-bar-meets-nightclub vibe, with dim lighting and plush leather booths creating a unique ambiance.

The main menu offers a variety of options, with over half of the dishes featuring cheese.

And if you’re a fan of hip-hop, you’re in for a treat – it’s the soundtrack that fills the air at Big Poppa’s, named after The Notorious B.I.G.’s iconic track of the same name.

Please note that Big Poppa’s is strictly for adults aged 18 and over, ensuring a vibrant and mature atmosphere for your date night. If you’re looking for a combination of delicious food, great wine, and a hip-hop-infused ambiance, Big Poppa’s is your go-to spot for an unforgettable night out.

Open hours:

• Monday 5 pm-3 am
• Tuesday 5 pm-3 am
• Wednesday 5 pm-3 am
• Thursday 5 pm-3 am
• Friday 5 pm-3 am
• Saturday 5 pm-3 am
• Sunday 5 pm-3 am

Address: 96, Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, NSW 2010

Contact:

cheese@bigpoppa.com.au

0499 052 201

SILY

Welcome to SILY, your local hidden gem nestled between three heritage-listed storehouses in the heart of the CBD.

This industrial space is a vibrant and welcoming haven brought to life by lush plants, playful fairy lights, live music, and striking murals by renowned street artists. Whether you’re in the mood for freshly shaken cocktails, local wines, craft beers, or delightful bar food, SILY has something for everyone to enjoy.

SILY’s unique blend of heritage, industrial architecture, modern street art, and a friendly neighborhood atmosphere has earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of the most distinctive bars in the CBD. It’s a favorite spot for those with a discerning palate and those who appreciate easygoing vibes.

As one of the pioneers in the city’s small bar scene, SILY has been serving its patrons since 2011 and remains as popular as ever, making it the perfect place for the after-work crowd.

And if you ever wondered about the name, SILY is a nod to The Avalanches’ song. It’s a place that’s adored by its customers but also owned by a fan. Come on in and experience the unique charm of SILY for yourself.

Opening Hours

• Tue-Fri: 4.30 pm – late
• Sat: 6 pm – late
• Sun/Mon: Closed

Address: 338, Kent Street, Sydney, NSW,2000

Contact: 

02 9279 2048

info@sinceileftyou.com.au

Cumberland

When planning a romantic date night in Sydney, The Cumberland in Manly offers something unique and mysterious. This underground bar, with a Spanish twist, is a hidden gem named after the Parish of Manly Cove in the County of Cumberland. 

Hidden behind a humble fridge door within a bodega-style deli, The Cumberland welcomes you to a sophisticated basement bar that is perfect for a cozy night out. Here, you can explore a selection of over 250 whiskies, savor natural wines, enjoy craft beers, and indulge in a diverse cocktail menu. 

From prohibition classics to creations inspired by the original counties of Sydney and its surroundings, they’ve got your drink preferences covered. They even have a section dedicated to locally foraged and found ingredients, adding a special touch to your cocktails.

As you step into The Cumberland, you’ll be greeted by ornate and vintage furnishings, featuring marble benchtops, hand-carved sandstone blocks, reclaimed timber, antique brass, and copper accents. The handmade leather banquette seat that wraps around the intimate 75-seat venue adds to the romantic ambiance.

And while the atmosphere is undoubtedly enchanting, it’s important to note that The Cumberland is strictly for adults as minors (under 18) are not legally allowed on the premises. So, if you’re looking to whisk your special someone away to a hidden world of charm and allure, The Cumberland is the ideal spot for a romantic date night in Manly.

Open hours:

• Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 5 pm–late
• Friday & Saturday 5 pm–1 am 
• Sunday 4 pm–10 pm

Address: 17-19 Central Avenue, Manly

Contact:

(02) 9058 2877

Visit website: Click

In the vibrant city of Sydney, love is in the air at its most enchanting bars. These romantic bars in Sydney offer a perfect setting for unforgettable date nights. Whether you’re sipping cocktails under fairy lights, sharing a bottle of wine with a view of the city skyline, or grooving to the beats of your favorite music, these romantic bars set the stage for love and connection. 

Visit our Top 10 Bars in Australia blog page to find more fascinating bars and pubs around Australia.