Helm Bar & Bistro

Helm sits in a strange part of Darling Harbour, just North of Cockle Bay Wharf and the Pyrmont Bridge. Aside from the gulls and view, there’s something vaguely nautical about the space, with lots of navy, wooden decking and rope in the mix. Up on the top deck glass shutters open Helm up to the elements, providing uninterrupted views of the harbour and the charming, criss-cross bridge, while high stalls, tables, and a few prized banquettes mean everyone gets a peek. The beaming staff pour Peroni, Fat Yak, Little Creatures Bright Ale, Bulmers and Blonde, and there’s a fairly rudimentary list of wines by the glass for those in need of a grape juice. Cocktails tend to stick to the classics - we’re talking view-friendly things like Mojitos, Margaritas and gin'n'tonics. There’s a list of carafes to wash away the afternoon, and god knows there are worse places to be than here with a jug o’ Pimms. The eats stick to what might be called Australian bistro classics, and a list of daily specials is hard to beat. Just ten skins will score you a steak, chips and salad on Tuesdays, while $25 will buy a kilo of spankingly fresh prawns come the weekend. Helm, it seems, is out to make friends.