21 Feb 2022

Drinks with a view - these are The Rocks’ best rooftop bars

Under the sun and beneath the stars, these are The Rocks’ best rooftop bars.
Drinks with a view - these are The Rocks’ best rooftop bars
Break out of the city after work or soak up the longer days of weekend sun at these awesome rooftop spots. Enjoy the outdoors with all the modern comforts – and top-notch cocktails, bar none.

THE GLENMORE

It’s a Sydney icon for a reason. Soak up the sun on The Glenmore’s famous rooftop and take in the gorgeous, panoramic 180-degree view of Sydney Harbour from above. Let your gaze wander lazily across the water from the Sydney Opera House to Circular Quay as you sip a Pimms cocktail, or fuel up on some classic pub grub (with a twist).

MCA CAFÉ AND SCULPTURE TERRACE

Wander through some of the world’s best contemporary art in and find yourself on level four. This one’s a local’s favourite, where you can capture one of the best bird’s eye views of the Harbour.

The MCA Café and Sculpture Terrace is a great lunchtime spot, with uninterrupted harbour views, a relaxed atmosphere, and a kitchen serving up fresh sandwiches, salads, hot mains and devilish desserts alongside a healthy drinks menu. Stick around for sunset drinks with harbour views on a Wednesday evening, when the terrace remains open until 9pm.

BLU BAR

One of Sydney’s most iconic cocktail bars, Blu Bar is set high above the harbour with uninterrupted views across everything that makes Sydney so special. 

This glistening spot of late-night lore serves creative cocktails, time-honoured classics and original concoctions by talented bartenders presiding over a sleek space, brimming with Sydneysiders and tourists alike.
 

SYDNEY HARBOUR YHA

Got a big night planned? Save yourself the hassle of homebound travel and book ahead to stay at Sydney Harbour YHA. Head on up to the rooftop to see why New Year’s Eve bookings sell out so early every year, then head downstairs to rest your weary head in comfort. The spectacular full-Harbour view from the rooftop is incredible at any time of day, but it’s even more amazing to wake up to. The ultimate hangover cure.

PONY LOUNGE AND DINING

A laneway lounge bar and a cosy grill restaurant all in one. While not technically a rooftop, Pony’s outdoor bar and lounge, situated above Kendall Lane, is absolutely worthy of inclusion. Gather some mates and share a Bondi Jug (Absolut vodka, crème de peche, cranberry and pineapple juice) a warm summer breeze does its thing, or sip a glass of sparkling as the sun goes down over the sandstone laneway below.