Sydney's best cocktail bar - Sydney Bar Awards 2012

 Victoria Room

Don’t make the mistake of discounting it as a hens’ night hideaway. The Victoria Room is the real deal, combining craft cocktails, incredible bartender knowledge and a beautiful venue. Darlinghurst 2010. (02 9357 4488). Tue-Wed 6pm-12 midnight; Thu-Sat 4pm-12 midnight.

Eau de Vie

This speakeasy-style bar has a wealth of talented bartenders working with exceptional hooch. It’s an industry haunt, a den of iniquity, and probably the best fun you can have with a glass in your hand. Darlinghurst 2010. (02 9357 2470) Mon-Sat 6pm-1am; Sun 6pm– 12 midnight.

Low 302
The Crown Street stalwart has been delivering on the cocktail front since ’09 and they’re showing no signs of slowing down. You might go for a beer (and many do) but you’d be mad not to stay for a Gimlet. Darlinghurst 2010. (02 9368 1548). Wed–Sat 5pm–2am; Sun 6pm–2am.

 Rockpool Bar & Grill

If there’s one place in Sydney you’re guaranteed to get a great drink and a great snack, it’s here. Bartenders make their own sodas and syrups and can rustle up a tasty drink faster than you can say Julep. Sydney 2000. (02 8078 1900). Lunch Mon-Fri 12.30-3pm; Dinner Mon-Sat 6-11pm. 

 Shady Pines
They’ll pour you a beer as fast as they pour a Sazerac and all with the same level of attention and care. If you haven’t had them make you a Negroni topped with Coke (blasphemous!) then you haven’t truly lived. Darlinghurst 2010. Mon-Sun 4pm-12 midnight.