Five Spots to Head for Late-Night Kick Ons in Sydney

The Imperial has long held status as a top late-night Sydney haunt in the inner west, but its recent reopening has seen new life breathed into this classic venue. Gaining mainstream attention for its cameo in The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, as well as being a firmly and proudly established LGBTQI+ venue, the Imperial embodies the lively and diverse culture of the inner west. Grab a bite and take in a drag show at the ground floor Priscillas, party late into the night in the Basement or relax at the rooftop bar Imperial Up, beer in hand.

An inner west institution, the Vic on the Park continues to play host to a wide array of patrons — including your pooch. During the day, relax on the back porch and bask in the sunshine. Once the sun sets, play some pool and catch live bands late into the evening in the front bar on Friday and Saturday nights. You can even play a game of basketball in the carpark out back. Should hunger strike, order quality pub fare from the bistro with a top-notch chicken burger, epic pub nachos and soft serve available in a cup or cone.

There’s a lot to love about the Steyne, so we’ll try to keep this brief. A heritage-listed pub, and northern beaches favourite for nearly 160 years, this pub is as much a part of Manly’s modern culture as it is its history. Housing six separate bars and featuring ace ocean views, the venue is a great spot for a few ice cold Heinekens after a day at the beach. The venue also boasts a 2am licence and is a wonderful spot for catching live sport on a huge screen in the smartly decorated courtyard and partying well into the night.

Bringing the long-celebrated Mexican cantina vibe of Surry Hills’ El Loco to the heart of the Sydney CBD has definitely paid off for this bustling Merivale venue. A great spot to hit up for a Mexican-inspired lunch or for after-work drinks and late-night kick ons. We recommend grabbing a few Heinekens (hoorah, it’s on tap) and settling in for a session in the spacious courtyard. Open till late every night of the week — including till 3am on Friday and Saturday — this CBD pub is where to go when you’re looking to turn those hard-earned post-work bevvies into a full night out with your workmates.

Elizabeth Street’s Verandah Bar has just had a massive refurb. Now a luxe space with a leafy jungle aesthetic, the bar is in a great spot (right next to Martin Place) for large get-togethers. At the same time, it offers a smart and sophisticated space to head for after-work drinks or a mid-week date. Acclaimed chef Brad Sloane continues to serve up a vast array of delicious food, while bartender Cameron Pascoe has crafted a well-designed cocktail list alongside, of course, a fine selection of wines and beers.