The Best Bars in Paddington for a Fun Night Out

Leafy green and packed with fun destinations, Paddington is one seriously desirable postcode. The terrace-lined streets, designer boutiques and thriving café culture lead Sydneysiders to flock from all over the city to get a slice of the Paddo action.

But arguably, it’s the sleek bars and century-old pubs that are key to this chic suburb’s charm. They're the heartbeat of Paddington's blandishments, where the drinks flow effortlessly and the ambience speaks volumes.

From speakeasy dens and trendy wine bars to poolside terraces, a fine evening awaits at these best bars in Paddington.  Scroll on for our top picks that won't let you down.

El Primo Sanchez  

El Primo Sanchez is full of delights from the moment you enter. Brought to us from the good people behind Maybe Sammy, this tequila and street food bar has left no stone unturned when it comes to detail. The deliciously retro interiors, block colours and disco balls suspended from the ceiling are a visual feast that just keeps giving with each nook channelling 1940s Mexico.

Start your night with the creative drink menu and the iconic guacamole before moving onto some larger share plates. Don't miss the Brussel Sprout Tacos, Tuna Tostada and Roast Corn. For drinks, try the Gimlet El Maiz, that uses a cordial made from leftover toasted tortillas, and the Sanchez Paloma made with mandarin soda, agave and lime, before delving into the extensive tequila menu. 

End with a session in the venue's petite soundproof karaoke booth that boasts an on-demand tequila button. Quesadillas with a side of Britney? Heaven. 

27-33 Oxford Street, Paddington 

Pool Bar at Oxford House 

For a mini holiday in the heart of Paddington, the Pool Bar at Oxford House is the place to be. The serene terrace, West Hollywood-inspired in its simplicity, beckons for a laid-back evening of margs and tunes. On weekends, Sydney's finest DJs drop by, adding a subtle groove to the mix. So if you only have a night to spare for a night out, consider the low-key charm of this oasis. 

21 Oxford Street, Paddington

10 William Street

In Paddington's cosy embrace, 10 William Street is the local's low-key gem. This chic wine bar-slash-restaurant is a quaint spot for a night out that doesn't scream "night out," making it perfect for date nights and catch-ups with friends. The Fratelli Paradiso brothers let their chefs run wild with the menu, so Sydneysiders can enjoy a myriad of fun classic Aussie bites or modern Asian dishes on every visit. (Watch out for their blackboard specials!) Among the best bars in Paddington, it's where the unassuming elegance of terrace life meets culinary creativity. 

10 William Street, Paddington

Busby's Wine & Record Bar

Combining two of life's greatest pleasures - natural wine and records - Busby's is a welcome addition to Paddington's bar scene. Mike Bennie of P&V Merchants is the genius behind the wine list whilst Maybe Sammy expert Paolo Maffietti has worked magic to craft the minimalist cocktail list.

It will come as no surprise that the bar menu, curated by Clayton Wells (ex-automata) is killer and packed with fun, vibrant and Aussie-inspired share plates. As for the tunes - impeccable. Swing by on a Thursday evening for residencies by some of the spinners in Syd or pop by on a Saturday to tune into the world's greatest albums on vinyl from start to finish.

21 Oxford St, Paddington

Charlie Parker's

Charlie Parker’s ups the stakes when it comes to Paddington’s bar scene. It’s a Merivale baby, so it is everything that you would expect, and then some. With low lights and simple decor, it's subtly cool. The real deal? The drinks. Local ingredients meet upstairs flair, shaping a no-nonsense yet inventive menu. Down in the basement, a mix of sandstone and dark wood makes the mood. It may not scream like your usual flashy haunt for a night out, but locals know it to be one of the best bars in Paddington. Charlie Parker’s is a low-key find, where your night gets a touch of class without the fuss. Quietly impressive, just the way Paddington likes it. Cheers!

Basement, 380 Oxford Street, Paddington 

The Paddington

A bar, restaurant and pub with a minimal yet striking interior, The Paddington is a nod to the past. The space was designed to look like a classic butchery, complete with white-glazed ceramic tiles, timber panelling and dark timber furniture in the front bar. Beyond the bar, an intimate seating area whispers a different charm. Venture upstairs to find a pub-cum-restaurant, boasting booth seating, mirrored tables, and a leather-fronted cocktail bar. It's a spartan yet stylish journey through time, where locals appreciate the blend of history and modernity. Of course, it's among the best bars in Paddington so get ready for a sick swill of delicious cocktails along with seriously good food.

384 Oxford Street, Paddington

The Elephant Bar at the Royal Hotel

In the heart of Paddington, locals swear by The Elephant Bar—a heritage pub that is as timeless as it is inviting. Pull up a seat, sip on a rosé or a yummy cocktail, and share quality meals with mates. Whether it's a relaxed catch-up with family or a night out on the famed rooftop spot with cocktails and champagne, The Elephant Bar knows how to strike the right chord. 

Five Ways, 237, Glenmore Road, Paddington

Tequila Mockingbird

In the heart of Five Ways, Tequila Mockingbird quietly steals the scene, not just for its Latin-American delights but also for the slick cocktail bar tucked inside. Locals savour the subtle charm, pulling up stools for expertly crafted margaritas paired with guac and nachos. With over 32 premium tequilas, this spartan gem earns its stripes among the best bars in Paddington. It's the kind of place where the atmosphere is as rich as the flavours, offering a low-key escape with a Latin twist. Tequila Mockingbird is the local secret for those who prefer their nights smooth and subtly spirited.

6 Heeley Street, Paddington

P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants

If you know the hip heartbeat of Paddo like the back of your hand, then you'll know that P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants is one of the best bars in the area. This isn't your run-of-the-mill watering hole; it's a bottle shop with a local soul and a small, laid-back wine bar tucked within. The daily-curated wine list promises rare, new, and different sips. What's even cooler? You can pick any bottle from the shop (there are over 300!) and enjoy it in-house for just a small corkage. If you're keen on a visit, better book ahead—this cosy spot fills up faster than you can say "Cheers!".

268 Oxford Street, Paddington

Crossed all of these rad locations off of your list and looking for more fun hangs in Paddington? Check out the best pubs here and the best places to sort your caffeine cravings here.