Best Bars in Sydney's CBD To Go On A First Date
Hey fellow Sydneysiders! If you’re single and ready to mingle in the CBD, you’re in for a treat. This concrete jungle isn’t just for suits and ties – it’s a goldmine for first dates, especially if you know where to look. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that, and I’m here to share the good stuff. First things first: dating in the CBD is all about finding that sweet spot between impressive and chill. You want somewhere with enough buzz to keep things interesting, but not so loud you can’t hear each other. And let’s be real, a good bar ticks all these boxes.
Now, if you’re wondering how to meet people, dating apps are the go-to these days. But don’t discount good old-fashioned networking events or even striking up a conversation at your local coffee shop. When you do land that date, suggesting “drinks at a bar” is perfect – it’s casual enough not to freak anyone out, but still shows you’ve put some thought into it. Quick tip: Most of the best bars are clustered around George Street, and with our awesome public transport (shout out to the light rail!), you’re never far from a good time. Just remember, CBD folks are usually pretty friendly but also value their time, so be punctual and bring your A-game conversation skills.
Written by Darcy Todd, speed dating expert in Australia
The Best Bars in Sydney's CBD, NSW
If you want to impress without looking like you’re trying too hard, The Baxter Inn is your spot. It’s got this cool speakeasy vibe that’ll make you both feel like you’re in on a secret. Finding it is half the fun – it’s down an alley and into a basement. Once you’re in, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The wall of whisky is insane, and even if you’re not a whisky drinker, it’s a great conversation starter.
Pro tip: Get there early (like 5-6pm) if you want a shot at one of the cozy booths. Order an Old Fashioned – they’re famous for it – and don’t be shy about asking the bartenders for recommendations. These guys know their stuff. It can get a bit pricey, so maybe suggest splitting the bill if you’re not sure about the whole “who pays on the first date” thing. The Swillhouse Group owns it, which basically means you’re guaranteed good service and a quality experience. After a couple of drinks, if things are going well, take a stroll through Chinatown. It’s close by and the perfect way to keep the night going without committing to a full dinner.
Okay, hear me out. Yes, The Ivy has a bit of a reputation, but the Pool Club is actually a killer first date spot, especially in summer. It’s like being on holiday without leaving the city. Book ahead and try to snag a cabana. It’s a bit boujee, but hey, go big or go home, right? The Miami vibes are strong here, so it’s perfect if you want something a bit different from your standard pub.
Start with an Ivy Spritz – it’s their signature for a reason. And don’t be afraid to order some food. The pizzas are surprisingly good and perfect for sharing. Fair warning: it’s not cheap. But if you’re looking to make an impression, this place does the job. Plus, it’s owned by Merivale, so you know it’s going to be slick. If things are going well, you’ve got the whole Ivy complex to explore. Or, for a change of pace, the Royal Botanic Gardens are just a short walk away. Nothing like a twilight stroll to see if there’s a spark, right?
If you’re after something with a bit of character, Palmer & Co. is your jam. It’s hidden down a laneway, which already makes it feel special. This place is all about that 1920s prohibition vibe. Think dark wood, vintage photos, and staff dressed like they’ve stepped out of a time machine. It’s a great ice-breaker – there’s always something to comment on or point out.
Get there around 7pm to beat the crowds. Start with their Espresso Martini (trust me on this one) and maybe share a charcuterie board. The cocktails are the real deal here, so don’t be afraid to try something new. It’s another Merivale venue, which means attention to detail is on point. Use this to your advantage – ask your date what they think about the decor or if they’ve been to any similar themed bars. If the date’s going well and you’re both into the whole historical vibe, suggest a ghost tour of The Rocks afterwards. It’s close by and a great way to keep the night interesting.
The Lobo is like the Goldilocks of first date bars – not too fancy, not too casual, just right. It’s got this art deco thing going on that makes it feel special without being over the top. Try to grab seats at the bar if you can. It gives you something to focus on if there are any awkward silences, plus the bartenders are always good for a chat or drink recommendation. Their Negroni is top-notch, so start there. They do some great small plates too if you’re peckish. Price-wise, it’s middle of the road, so you won’t break the bank.
It’s run by the same team as The Baxter Inn, so you know it’s quality. Use the bar’s style as a conversation starter – ask your date if they’re into art deco or if they know any other cool bars in the area. If things are flowing, suggest popping into Small Bar nearby for a change of scene. The contrast between the two places can be a good talking point.
Since I Left You (338 Kent St) is a hidden treasure that’ll score you major points for knowing your stuff. Tucked away in a charming courtyard, it’s got this killer combo of indoor-outdoor vibes that’s perfect for Sydney’s climate. Head there around 7pm to snag a good spot – the fairy lights come on as the sun sets, and it’s pretty magical. Their cocktail game is strong, so start with their signature SILY Sour and maybe share a cheese board. The place has this cool, relaxed atmosphere that takes the pressure off first-date jitters.
It’s not dirt cheap, but it won’t break the bank either. The staff are super friendly and can be a great buffer if there’s a lull in conversation. What’s cool is the building used to be a wool store back in the day, so you’ve got a bit of history to chat about. If things are going well, suggest a short walk to Barangaroo Reserve – it’s close by and offers stunning harbour views at night. Just remember, this place is popular with the after-work crowd, so it can get busy. But honestly, that just adds to the buzz and gives you plenty to people-watch if you need a conversation starter.
Opera Bar (Macquarie St) is an absolute classic for a reason. Yes, it’s touristy, but hear me out – those views are hard to beat, especially for a first date. Aim to get there just before sunset for the full effect. It’s right on the harbour, so you’ve got the Opera House on one side and the Harbour Bridge on the other – talk about impressive backdrops! Start with a glass of Australian wine (they’ve got a great selection) and maybe share some oysters if you’re feeling fancy. The menu’s pretty solid overall, so don’t be afraid to grab a bite if drinks turn into dinner. It can get pricey, but you’re paying for the location.
The crowd is usually a mix of tourists and locals, which can be a great conversation starter – you can play ‘spot the tourist’ or share your own Sydney experiences. It’s owned by the Opera House, so you know it’s legit. If the date’s going well, suggest a walk around the Opera House or through the Botanic Gardens – both are right there and beautiful at night. Just a heads up, it can get windy, so maybe bring a jacket to offer your date if they get cold (smooth move, right?). The best part? If there’s chemistry, you’re in the perfect spot to continue the night with a show at the Opera House or a drink at one of the many bars in Circular Quay.
O Bar and Dining (Level 47, Australia Square, 264 George St) is your go-to if you want to seriously impress. This place is all about the wow factor – we’re talking 360-degree views of Sydney from 47 floors up. It’s a bit fancy, so dress up a little. Aim to get there about 30 minutes before sunset to watch the city light up – it’s pretty spectacular. Start with one of their signature cocktails (the Sydney Sling is a good bet) and maybe share some of their small plates. Fair warning, it’s on the expensive side, but for a special first date, it can be worth splashing out.
The revolving restaurant thing might sound gimmicky, but it’s actually really cool – you get to see all of Sydney without moving from your seat. It’s owned by renowned chef Michael Moore, so the food is top-notch if you decide to eat. Use the view as a conversation starter – you can point out landmarks or share stories about different parts of the city. If things are going well, suggest heading down to The Grounds of the City nearby for a more casual dessert and coffee. It’s a great way to extend the date in a different setting. Just remember to book ahead, especially for those sunset time slots – this place is popular for a reason.
The Argyle (18 Argyle St, The Rocks) is perfect if you’re after something with a bit of history and a lot of atmosphere. Set in a heritage-listed building in The Rocks, it’s got this cool mix of old-world charm and modern vibes. Aim to get there around 7pm – early enough to grab a good spot, late enough to catch the evening atmosphere. Start with a craft beer or one of their signature cocktails in the courtyard – it’s got these amazing sandstone walls that are great conversation starters. The Argyle’s got a bit of everything – from casual pub vibes to a more upscale cocktail bar feel, so you can gauge what your date’s into. Food-wise, their pizzas are pretty good for sharing. It’s mid-range price-wise, so it won’t break the bank.
The place is owned by Sake Restaurant & Bar group, so you know it’s got cred. If your date’s into history, you can chat about The Rocks area – it’s full of stories. As the night goes on, the place gets livelier, especially on weekends when they have DJs. If that’s not your scene for a first date, no worries – suggest a walk around The Rocks. It’s beautiful at night with all the old buildings lit up, and you’re not far from the harbour if you want to extend the date with a waterside stroll. Just a heads up, it can get pretty busy, especially on Friday nights, so be prepared for a bit of a crowd. But hey, that can work in your favor – people-watching is always a good fallback if conversation lulls!