The Hive Bar

Overview

The Hive is a short amble away from the King Street strip and well worth the extra footsteps. One of the only bars to challenge the reign of the neighbouring Rose of Australia pub and survive, the Hive is now one of the most buzzing (pun intended) spots on the Erskineville Road strip. Locals, at all times of the day, can be seen locked in animated conversation at the wide bi-fold windows, chilling on the footpath or propping up the bar. The decor is of your standard recycled, mismatched variety, complemented by graffitied walls and local art installations. The venue's love of all things analogue is showcased every Wednesday when they host BYO vinyl nights.

The wine list and cocktail menu have a local, seasonal focus, and you're well advised to sample the beers on tap - the E'ville Pilsner and Green Star Lager come direct from the St Peters Brewery. There's also a good selection of food on offer, including share plates, burgers and pizzas, with many of the ingredients sourced from the Erskineville Community Garden just up the road. Unusually, The Hive is the kind of local bar you hear about Sydneysiders wanting and needing, but which very rarely fails to materialise — a cool and comfortable home away from home.

Images: Andy Lawrence.