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 Some of the cheapest drinks around |
157 Curlewis Street Bondi Sydney, NSW 2026 Australia +61 (0)2 9365 3687 |
As relaxed and un-threatening as it gets in Bondi this place packs with locals who come to relax and unwind. A wide variety of non-offensive live bands play almost every night. The bar itself claims to be a wine bar, but all in all stocks a good list of alcoholic beverages and around 20 wines by the glass, selling some of the cheapest drinks in Bondi. While you are there, have a glass of their famous Sangria. The decor is basic but clean and comfortable. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 A little night music in the CBD |
29 Reiby Place Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 2 9251 2797 http://www.thebasement.com.au |
One of the country's foremost clubs for jazz, acoustic, folk, funk, blues, world and soul live music, this place was renovated and re-launched in 1992 with an adventurous regular line-up of local and international musicians. There are cabaret-style tables close to the stage or an elevated bar at the back. It has functional decor, with wood panelling and unattractive carpeting. If you are not looking for live music there is an admission-free bar and Mediterranean style bistro serving snacks and supper. Weekdays 4:30p-6:30p is happy hour so it is popular for after-work drinks. Performances are held 9:30p onwards. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Lori Metz |
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Great for live music |
71 Beach Road Bondi Sydney, NSW 2026 Australia +61 (0)2 9130 7247 |
To the mostly local patrons the hotel in which this restaurant is nestled, is known as the Regis (once its old name). Within the hotel there is a betting area, pool hall, pokies and No Names—a very cheap pasta restaurant. There are also three bar areas. The ground floor bar is filled with casually dressed locals. Upstairs it is a lot trendier and younger: the upmarket rear bar often has jazz bands playing, and the other bar is filled with pool tables and contemporary bands or DJ's playing mostly hip hop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Friendly and fun atmosphere |
512 Oxford Street Bondi Junction Sydney, NSW 2022 Australia +61 2 9389 5726 |
Where did this pub get its name? In the 1940s, owner Billy looked like a pig, ate and drank like a pig, and treated his customers like pigs. Times have changed somewhat in this bustling local, which is popular with families, backpackers and office workers. The décor is clean and warm and there is a leafy courtyard which is great on summer evenings. The bistro specialises in Malaysian cuisine as well as normal pub fare like steaks, sandwiches and schnitzels. Meals cost AUD3 to AUD9. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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This place rocks all day and all night |
26 Darlinghurst Road Kings Cross Sydney, NSW 2011 Australia +61 2 9358 1144 http://www.thebourbon.com.au/ |
This place, known as a haven for homesick Americans and a sailors hangout, is always open and always entertaining. From 5pm until 9pm, a pianist plays Golden Oldies tunes then until 3am on a weekday and weekends until 7am a rhythm and blues pop band or Top 40 music plays. Within the complex there are two discos, one playing techno and house the other playing retro and techno. Comfortable and traditional, this place is filled with a combination of locals and tourists. The Bourbon & Beefsteak serves an a la carte menu of seafood, Steak, Tex-Mex and the like. Breakfast is also served 24 hours. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Fabian Foo |
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Addictive local cafe |
128 Erskineville Road Erskineville Sydney, NSW 2043 Australia +61 (0)2 9516 4207 |
In the heart of the hip, happening little village of Erskineville, across the street from both the station and the well known Rose of Australia hotel, Caffeine has created a buzz among coffee addicts far and wide. The latest development is live music, from 4pm until late on Sundays. Be warned--service can be excruciatingly slow. Tiled walls, a concrete floor, big timber-framed windows and wooden tables complete the décor--the paved area out the front is the place to be on weekends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Irish music and ales |
89 Ebley Street Bondi Junction Sydney, NSW 2022 Australia +61 2 9389 3004 http://www.cocknbull.com.au |
Part of the Grand Hotel, the Cock 'N' Bull is located in Bondi Junction. In the downstairs area there is a band space where cover bands play, but on the weekends at midnight it becomes a dance spot. You can catch live Irish music here on a Monday. The older style, traditional pub decor attracts a casual crowd who come for pints of Guinness and Kilkenny. The bistro serves a variety of dishes including Irish Stew, lasagne and king prawns. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Historic pub |
137 George Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 (0)2 9247 2714 |
During the week, office workers come for a lunch time or after work beer. On weekends the punters range from locals to tourists, a good crowd mixed with a few beer drinking louts. However, the Fortune of War is best known for its live music, with jazz on a Sunday afternoon or guitar during the week. A traditional style pub set in the historical Rocks area, come here for a real Australian experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrey Chow |
 Photo: M. Formby |
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Wide range of bands |
Church Street (Corner Park Street) Parramatta Sydney, NSW 2150 Australia +61 (0)2 9635 8811 |
The General Bourke is the live music center of Parramatta. Bands play a large variety of music, nightly. On a Wednesday its 1950s and 1960s night, Thursday is Irish night, Friday cover bands and Saturday live rock bands. Sunday is for smaller, mellower acts. It is popular with people from all over Sydney. The decor is cozy though a little older in style. Drinks are reasonably priced. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Live blues and pub grub |
18 Lower Fort Street The Rocks Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 (0)2 9252 3769 |
This place is renowned for its superb selection of live blues music five nights a week. And if that is not enough to keep the mixed clientele of locals and tourists happy, as the name suggests, this hotel boasts a quite spectacular view from its terrace. In the summer it is the perfect place to enjoy a cold beer or a tasty snack from the bistro that serves up a standard pub food menu including steaks and salads. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Iain Bowen |
 Photo: Michael Lumley |
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Laid back band venue and bar |
416 Bourke Street Surry Hills Sydney, NSW 2010 Australia +61 (0)2 9361 5257 |
Known to locals as "The Hoey", this relaxed hotel offers varying types of live bands which are generally good quality, original acts. The service, atmosphere and bands are inoffensive. Come to play pool, listen to a good band or have a quick drink. The decor is as close to a big comfortable lounge room as you can get, remembering you are in a bar. Looking for a casual drink or want the hang out whilst listening to a quality band, this place is for you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Amy Walters |
 Photo: Shannon Scully |
 Photo: Julia Thomas |
 Photo: Vitek |
 Photo: Jonathan Vandenberg |
 Photo: Brian McBride |
 Photo: Markus Karlseder  |
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New Australian music |
220 Botany Road Alexandria Sydney, NSW 2015 Australia +61 (0)2 9690 0999 |
With a commitment to Australian music, this place has played host to many up and coming Australian bands. Located in the industrial end of Sydney, the hotel attracts diverse patrons from band groupies and punks to locals. The service is quick and friendly and the atmosphere relaxing. Come to play a game of pool or check out some new Australian talent. There is also a beer garden, great in the summer months. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gerard Wilson |
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Jumping off point |
35 Broughton Street Milsons Point Sydney, NSW 2061 Australia +61 (0)2 9955 1415 |
The Kirribilli has all the hallmarks of a good Aussie pub--live music, good DJs, a dance floor, and trivia competitions. Situated opposite Milsons Point Station, this is a popular spot to duck in for a quick drink after work, or on your way into the city. Imported beers and a wide-ranging wine list are a feature of the Kirribilli. The atrium bistro features pasta and steak nights, and serves an excellent roast with all the trimmings. The salads are fresh and healthy, and the chips cooked the way chips are supposed to be cooked. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wild baroque decadence |
Sydney Hilton Hotel 259 Pitt Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 (0)2 9266 2000 |
Originally built for the Tattersall's Hotel in 1883, this marvellous bar was rescued from destruction by the Hilton Hotel and installed in the basement in the early 1970s. A firm favourite with Sydneysiders it is a riot of indulgent Italianate gold, marble and rococo extravaganzas and a very nice place to have a drink and listen to live music. Graceful arches, glorious stained glass ceilings and doors and a carved bar make this a wonderfully eccentric watering hole. There is also a gallery of original Julian Ashton paintings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Oat Vaiyaboon |
 Photo: Oat Vaiyaboon |
 Photo: norris |
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Live music every week night |
25 George Street The Rocks Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 (0)2 9247 3570 |
Suit, suits and more suits. City workers unite here. On a Friday night the patronage is so big that more than 100 suits pour onto the pavement and swill their beers. Every week night live bands play. Come to mingle with the office workers during the week or to relax on a weekend afternoon in this modern pub which definitely has a touch of the Irish about it. At lunch times the bistro serves up wholesome pub grub which you can wash down with a pint of Guinness. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jon Moss Photography |
 Photo: erin deruggiero |
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Sunset over Pittwater |
Kalinya Street Newport Sydney, NSW 2106 Australia +61 (0)2 9997 4900 http://www.newportarms.com.au/ |
Overlooking picturesque Pittwater, this is one of the Northern Beaches' trump cards. Frequented by Sydneysiders who moor their yachts along the peninsula, as well as surfers, families, big groups of friends, and jazz aficionados (the live jazz on Sundays is an institution), the Newport Arms is more like a street party than a pub. Inside, there are big, roomy, unpretentious bar areas, but the beer garden and outdoor tables are the most sought-after spots on a sunny afternoon. The bistro serves a limited but popular menu that includes pub favourites like fish and chips, calamari, oysters, salads and burgers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Party time! |
195 Victoria Road Sydney, NSW 2047 Australia +61 2 9181 1229 http://drummoyne.pjgallaghers.... |
At PJ Gallaghers, it's party time 24/7. There's so much to do that the question of getting bored does not arise. Relish delicious cuisine at the restaurant on the first floor or sit at the bar and have a drink. The Irish pub here is just as happening and offers a long list of wines to choose from. You can book this place for private functions and cocktail parties as well. Sports lovers can catch all the action on the plasma screens. PJ Gallaghers has a branch at 74 Church Street Parramatta (+61 2 9635 8811). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Seafood and singing |
98 Oxford Street Darlinghurst Sydney, NSW 2010 Australia +61 2 9331 6806 http://www.raquelsspanishkitch... |
Located in the heart of Sydney's trendy Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, this Spanish restaurant specialises in seafood and great entertainment. The live vocalist, band and singing waiter entice diners on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. Whilst you are there try Raquel's famous Paella: a rice dish made with fresh seafood served in a traditional Paella Pan, slowly cooked over hot charcoals. The restaurant is comfortable and roomy with a good atmosphere. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditional charm |
1 Swanson Street Erskineville Sydney, NSW 2043 Australia +61 (0)2 9565 1441 |
The décor here is from another time but you'll be too distracted by the music to notice. On the weekends, country and rock bands play and one Sunday a month they have Blues jamming sessions. Drop by to catch a live performance or to grab something at the bottle shop with an ever-changing selection of alcohol. In contrast to the older style bar, the restaurant has been refurbished and is very stylish. On offer are steaks, pasta and curry. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Hit the sack |
599 Darling Street Rozelle Sydney, NSW 2039 Australia +61 2 9555 7555 |
The changes at the Sackville Hotel have come full circle--from an above average local to a swanky, silver service restaurant, and back to an above average local. Chic and sophisticated, this is one for the discerning barfly. Like something out of an IKEA or catalogue, the Sackville's use of colours, timbers and textures create a stylish effect. The Sackville has a decent cocktail list and bistro fare, including the obligatory Fish and Chips and Steak. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Retro-futuristic cafe |
Shop 8, 80 Wilson Street Newtown Sydney, NSW 2042 Australia +61 (0)2 9557 8698 |
A spin-off of the Well Connected internet cafe in Glebe. Satellite's draw card is a series of performance evenings that feature live music, poetry readings and short film screenings. Despite an uninspiring cream brick facade, the funky split-level interior is a retro-cool pastiche of turquoise leather armchairs, cherry red lounge suites, chrome tables and a turntable and groovy record collection in the corner. The menu includes wood-fired toast with ricotta and honey, veggie burgers (with or without the bun), and eggs any which way. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Dublin like pub |
43-49 Goulburn Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 (0)2 9211 2002 http://www.scruffymurphys.com.au/ |
Centrally located in the city, this is an Irish influenced pub. As with many pubs in the city, during the week it fills with office workers and on the weekend, local Sydneysiders and Irish backpackers. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Sunday a variety of live Irish Bands perform. The pub's décor is also very influenced by Irish rustic traditions, so for a truly Irish experience, drop by for a Guinness or a Caffrey's. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Gavin Cooney |
 Photo: Eoghan McElwee |
 Photo: Christopher Wong |
 Jazz on the side |
83 Parramatta Road Annandale Sydney, NSW 2038 Australia +61 (0)2 9516 3077 |
The Side-On Cafe is regularly recommended by Eastside radio, 89.7FM, Sydney's jazz radio station, so you know it must be good. Presented by the Sydney Improvised Music Association (SIMA), the Side-On Cafe features a who's-who line up of Sydney's jazz musicians, as well as performances by local and international stars. The décor is cosy and intimate, with low-level lighting and a baby grand in the corner. The menu offers European cuisine meets modern Australian meets Americana, with a bit of Asia on the side. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Authentic food and Latin dancing lessons |
541 Kent Street Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 2 9283 3046 |
Located in the Spanish Quarter, this restaurant is bright and airy with a dance floor and band area. Latin music always plays in the background and a live band plays on Saturday nights. Sitting at long, canteen style tables you can enjoy tapas, Garlic prawns, Spicy Potatoes and main dishes including Grilled Octopus and Paella. And if you are not too full after dinner, you can dance the night away or take one of their Latin dancing lessons. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: aptronym@flickr |
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Strawberry Hills forever |
453 Elizabeth Street Surry Hills Sydney, NSW 2010 Australia +61 (0)2 9698 2997 http://www.strawberryhillshote... |
This is Sydney's premier jazz venue, home to the jazz Society, with live performances two nights a week and regular jam sessions. One of Sydney's classic art deco pubs, it has dark polished timber and mottled tiled walls. As well as the usual pool comps and pokies, there are also 10 single rooms upstairs. You can get food from the bar, anything from burgers, chips and caesar salads to chicken salad, with char grilled chicken breast, fresh coriander and basil, roma tomatoes and lime dressing. Enjoy! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Harborsights and show cruises |
Blue Line Cruises, PO Box 155 Pyrmont Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 2 9552 2722 http://www.bluelinecruises.com.au |
A great way to see Sydney Harbor in both style and comfort whilst enjoying lunch or dinner. The dining area is decorated in a quiet, classical style but the views of Sydney are as good as it gets. This is a popular tourist attraction. Cost: Dinner Cruise AUD129.80 includes a three course meal and cabaret show; Lunch Cruise AUD56.20 includes a buffet and live jazz music; Harborsights Cruise AUD20.50 and includes commentary, scones and tea or coffee. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sydney Showboats |
 Photo: Sydney Showboats |
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Food, Guinness and song |
200 Cleveland Street Chippendale Sydney, NSW 2008 Australia +61 (0)2 9319 3144 |
This hotel is named after an area in Ireland called Thurle. As you would imagine the hotel itself has a distinctly Irish atmosphere and the food and songs reflect this, not to mention the pints of Guinness. Its other high points include a sports bar, pool tables, TAB area and gaming machines. The bistro serves gourmet pub food, which you can eat either in the dining area or courtyard. They also cater for small to large functions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Champagne in the city |
53 Martin Place Sydney, NSW 2000 Australia +61 2 9233 5300 |
A slick establishment, in both presentation and service this is one of the new breed of mid-city, way cool restaurants/bars taking advantage of the new liquor laws. That means enjoying the bar without having to order food, however, the adjoining restaurant should not be missed. There is a cocktail bar, cigar lounge, a function room called Private Banc and regular live jazz and funk bands. It is not cheap but the patrons do not care much. Review © 2007, Wcities |