The Best Bars in Circular Quay for Cocktails & Fun Times

Circular Quay undeniably boasts the best Harbour views in Sydney, and the many bars that line the shores also have fabulous front-row seats. Making the most of their enviable locations, these bars offer panoramic views courtesy of their floor-to-ceiling windows, rooftop positions, or in some cases, completely alfresco settings, whilst others utilise historic basements to house their tipples. To help you with your scenic selection, we’ve narrowed down the best bars in Circular Quay to nab a table at.

Bar Besuto 

Hidden down the cosy laneway that is Underwood Street in Circular Quay, you'll find Bar Besuto. The bar is inspired by the hidden drinking dens of Tokyo and has an intimate and unintimidating feel to it. With space for less than 20 patrons, you'll get some seriously solid recommendations from the expert staff who know a thing or two about the rare whiskies stocked behind the bar. Sake, whiskey and gin take pride of place on the bar menu whilst a selection of Japanese bites make for the perfect accompaniment to your tipple of choice. 

3 Underwood Street, Circular Quay 

Martinez (Image Credits: Top and bottom left - Jason Loucas, bottom right - Steven Woodburn) 

Martinez Restaurant, Bar & Terrace 

If you're craving a sojourn in the South of France but aren't able to nip over, head over to Martinez Restaurant, Bar & Terrace for the next best thing. Heavily influenced by the seafood and fresh produce found scattering the menus of this part of France, Martinez Restaurant's menu is ready to transport you there. 

The Plateau de Fruits de Mer, a platter of seasonal seafood, is perfect for a celebration whilst the Classic Provencal Bouillabaisse is a must order whatever the occasion. Guests can even enjoy Martinez for breaky with French scrambled eggs, ris au lait pudding and more. 

A signature cocktail menu and a wine list packed with organic and biodynamic drops rounds out the offering. With popping pink and red interiors, Martinez is a delight for all the senses. Bonus points for the Harbour Bridge views! 

Quay Quarter Tower, 50 Bridge Street, Sydney 

Deux Frères (Image Credit: Jude Cohen) 

Deux Frères

Sydney's foodie scene is easily one of the best and it's even better since we've scored our own dedicated Basque Pintxos venue. From the good people that brought us Bouillon L'Entrecôte, Deux Frères serves up small plates, larger share plates, and high-quality tinned seafood. House-made vermouth, sangria and Basque region wines rounds out the offering. Ideal for a catch up with friends, you'll adore everything about this petite pinxtos joint from the perfectly plated Tortilla de Patatas to the authentic and striking crockery. 

6 Loftus Lane, Sydney 

Hyde Hacienda Sydney Bar + Lounge

With unparalleled vistas stretching over Circular Quay and the Harbour Bridge, a select food menu with Caribbean inclinations, a curated cocktail list and ample choices of dark liquors – rum and whiskey being the natural preferences – there is so much to love about this harbourside venue. At Hyde Hacienda Sydney, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the lush surrounds and party vibes.

61 Macquarie Street, Sydney 

Bar Patron

Overlooking Circular Quay, Rookpool’s Bar Patron is the place to head when you're in the mood for tacos and tequila. The bar, which is fitted out like a retro hacienda, serves up familiar Mexican favourites with a touch of fine dining sophistication. The refined menu pairs perfectly with their top-shelf liquor offering.

2 Phillip Street, Sydney 

Opera Bar

Arguably Sydney’s most Instagrammed view, when it comes to alfresco dining, it really doesn’t get much better than this. Pair uninterrupted harbour views with the Opera Bar’s Mediterranean eats and a well-stocked bar, and you're pretty much all set. Take any Sydneysider’s advice: come for the sunset and stay for the city lights.

Macquarie Street, Sydney 

Apollonia

Apollonia is one of Sydney's most beloved underground drinking dens. Mysterious and seductive, it's easily one of the best bars in Circular Quay for a post-dinner nightcap. The bar takes its name and inspiration from a character from the movie The Godfather and bills itself as a fictional Sicilian bandit drinking den. With their hitlist of specialty cocktails, cool vibes and extensive drinks list, you will be sure to find your new signature libation.

5-7 Young Street, Sydney

Cruise Bar

All aboard Cruise Bar, which is perched right on the wharf at Circular Quay. The space has a glamorous garden-party-meets-Hamptons feel to it, with cane furniture, lush plants aplenty, timber tables and stripy deckchairs. The outdoor courtyard is the place to be for a classic cocktail.

Level 1, Overseas Passenger Terminal, Circular Quay West

Loved our roundup of the best bars in Circular Quay? If you love knowing all about the best spots in Sydney for a glass or a pint, we have just the articles for you to read! From bars with beautiful interiors and rooftop locations to underground hangouts and romantic date spots, we've got you covered.