The Best Bars in Sydney's Newtown

Taking inspiration from the American tiki bars of the 1930s, Jacoby’s Tiki Bar is a colourful oasis serving tropical cocktails. Twin Peaks fans may notice references to the cult TV series, including the hallway which is reminiscent of a notorious scene from the show. Run by the team behind Newtown’s Earl’s Juke Joint, Lehmann says, “Up the top end of Enmore road near the famous Enmore Theatre, this tiki bar has all your tropical hijinks and a quirky twist of David Lynch-inspired artefacts. Smash a can of Tecate or delight yourself in a Piña Colada and settle in.” Gunner adds, “If I’m looking for a party, there’s no better option than Jacoby’s Tiki Bar on a Sunday night.”

A neighbourhood deli on Australia Street, featuring an array of delicious European goods, fine wines and canned cocktails, Continental Deli Bar and Bistro’s winning formula has led to a second outpost opening in the CBD. According to Lehmann, this place is “the perfect spot for a Sunday arvo, chugging down their famous Mar-tinny (canned martini) while you delve into cured meats, canned razor clams, stankin’ cheeses or their famous three-cheese toastie. Take your nan here, she’ll love it.”

Housed in an old butcher’s shop, Earl’s Juke Joint is a New Orleans-style speakeasy, named after drummer Earl Palmer. Owned by Pasan Wijesena, the ex-manager of Shady Pines, the cocktails here are expertly mixed with a frequently changing menu. According to Walters, Earls is “run by legends – they know good drinks, and service is on point”. Aim for happy hour between 4pm-6pm, Monday to Friday.

Café by day and bar by night, 1989 Arcade Bar is the passion project of Brit Ben Campbell and his Aussie wife Marnie, who sold their one-bed flat in London, moved to Australia and opened up Sydney’s first (and only) arcade-themed bar. It features more than 29 classic arcade games – including Teenage Mutant Hero Turtles, Streetfighter and Donkey Kong – and 23 craft beers. This is the place to relive your teenage years. Serious gamers can also take part in video game tournaments at this King Street venue.

With several outposts across the city, Mary’s has become a Sydney institution, but the love affair began in Newtown. According to Lehmann, it’s the city’s “premier beer, burger and fried chicken joint. Loud tunes, shots of Jack and Reschs on tap! What more could you want? They also pack a large selection of natural wine. I always lose my shirt here and wake up knowing I’ve had a good time with the hangover to match.”

“Tandem Bar is my hidden gem – known for its Scandinavian approach to atmosphere and cocktails. The bartenders there are always friendly and up for a chat,” says Gunner. The Scandi-themed bar, complete with a tandem bicycle above the entrance, specialises in aquavit, with aquavit cocktails, aquavit and tonic, and aquavit flights all available on the menu. The King Street hangout has four areas: the main bar, the living room, an outdoor courtyard and the loft. Make the most of what the menu has to offer by timing a visit to coincide with happy hour, Tuesday to Saturday from 5pm–7pm, with $6 (£3) pale ales and $12 (£6) Aperol Spritzes.

For a bar/restaurant combo, Bloodwood delivers the goods, serving biodynamic wines and seasonal dishes inspired by Asian, Middle Eastern and European cuisine. According to Walters, “It’s super simple – the food is a perfect example of using good produce and balancing flavours, the staff are amazing, and the wine list is on point. It’s across the road from Earl’s Juke joint, so there really is no need to go anywhere else in Newtown.”