Why Your GPS Might Be a Liar and How to Fix It
Let’s get one thing straight: your phone’s “bars near me” feature is a backstabber. It’s not that it’s evil (well, technically it’s just code), but it assumes you care about convenience over character. Which is why this guide exists. We’re not here to sell you tap water in a fancy glass. We’re here to hand you the keys to Sydney’s best bars—places where the beer knows your name, the cocktails don’t taste like regret, and the vibe is “vibes” without the TikTok nonsense.
PS: If you’re into making your own beer, check out our DIY guide. But if you’re too lazy, we’ve got you covered with these bars.
Top 5 Bars That’ll Make Your GPS Cry
1. The Ivy (160 Oxford St, Darlinghurst)
If James Bond had a second base, it’d be here. The Ivy isn’t just a bar—it’s a vibe. Think velvet booths, a menu that reads like a Shakespearean tragedy, and a wine list so long it could double as a GPS. Pro tip: Ask for the “Bourbon Smash.” It’s like a punch in the face… but in a good way.
2. The Prince William (450 Crown St, Walsh Bay)
This pub is so old, the walls probably have stories about your ex. But don’t worry—the beer is newer, fresher, and way more reliable. Their “Prince’s Ale” is a liquid apology for all the times you’ve ghosted someone.
3. The Boilermaker (479 Kent St, Ultimo)
Where beer geeks and hipsters make peace. The Boilermaker’s tap list changes daily, which is a fancy way of saying “we don’t care if you’re a repeat customer.” Their “Hazy IPA” is so cloudy, you’ll forget your Netflix password again.
4. The Crown and Sceptre (345 Crown St, Walsh Bay)
If you want to pretend you’re in London, this pub is your gateway drug. The “Full English” is a lie—it’s just eggs, toast, and a side of existential dread. But the pints? Spot on. Ask for the “London Porter” and pretend you know what a porter is. Bonus points if you use a British accent.
5. The Golden Era (328 Crown St, Walsh Bay)
This retro bar is so 80s, even the neon signs are trying to get a restraining order. But the cocktails? They’re trying too hard to be modern. The “Tropical Twist” is like your ex’s playlist—overly dramatic but not terrible.
Why You Should Care About Location (Hint: It’s Not Just for Uber)
Bars near you aren’t just about proximity—they’re about proximity to greatness. Take The Prince William: it’s technically “near” the Opera House, but you’d have to walk through a time portal to get there. GPS says it’s close. Our app says it’s “walking distance if you’re 10 years younger and not hungover.”
Want to learn how to make your own bar at home? Our Custom Beer Guide will turn your kitchen into a speakeasy. But if you’re not ready to DIY, these bars will do the hard work for you.
FAQ: Because You’re Lazy and We’re Bored
Q: What’s the most Instagrammable bar in Sydney?
A: The Ivy. Because velvet booths and candlelight are the original filters.
Q: Can I find a good cocktail without pretending to be a mixologist?
A: Go to The Boilermaker and say “I’m here for the bartender’s recommendation.” They’ll give you a drink that tastes like confidence.
Q: How do I avoid the tourist traps?
A: If the bar has a sign that says “Welcome, Mate!” in Comic Sans, it’s a trap. The “real” bars don’t need neon signs—they’ll make you feel like you got a secret.
Final Call: Drink Responsibly, Sip Smartly
Bars near you aren’t just places—they’re experiences. Whether you’re here for the beer, the ambiance, or the “ooh, is this a real shaker?” moment, Sydney has you covered. And if you’re a bar owner looking to grow your business (or just avoid being replaced by an AI), check out our business growth tips. For everyone else: hit us up if you need help finding the best bar for your next post-breakup binge.
And remember: Sell your beer online through Dropt.beer—because if you’re not on the internet, you’re just a bar with a really good Yelp review.
