Where to Kick On for Celebratory Drinks After an Afternoon Match at the SCG

Woollahra’s Light Brigade Hotel has a historic facade that gives way to a slick and modern space with a range of long communal tables and booth seats for its boisterous, sports-mad clientele. On game day, the atmosphere here is so electric that the party keeps going well after the final siren sounds — given the pub is only a 20-minute walk from the SCG, we can guarantee there’ll be a swarm of fans making the same voyage with you.

This art deco pub has plenty on offer for a post-game kick-on — including exclusive food and beverage offers available to Swans members on game days. Head up to the rooftop bar to enjoy lush views over Paddington and the city while tucking into woodfired pizzas, burgers and share plates.

Image: Jasper Avenue

Located just opposite Moore Park, this Darlinghurst pub is a must for your post-match recap session. The Taphouse boasts a whopping 60 taps that rotate through about 500 beers each year, so you’ll always find something new to try. If you’re keen to sip a few brews, why not grab a tasting paddle? For those looking to continue the day outdoors, head upstairs to the greenery-filled Elm Rooftop Bar. Up here, you and your crew can sip juice-based cocktails, hard seltzers, vino and, of course, more beer. Wherever you are in the pub, be sure to order some grub. Share plates include pulled pork tacos, stuffed jalapeños and charcuterie platters. For heartier feeds, expect go-to pub fare like steak and parmies.

A 20-minute stroll from the SCG will take you to The Dolphin, the Crown Street heavy hitter that boasts high-flying Italian cuisine and ultra-chic interiors.

On the menu of this airy, multi-level boozer, you’ll find produce-driven Italo-Australian dishes complemented by a program of over 100 wines with a focus on natural varieties. Our tip: head to this pub near the SCG after the game for a round of excellent woodfired pizza and take advantage of its Swans members-only deal on red and white house wine while you’re at it.

Another easy walk from the SCG is Paddington favourite The Unicorn. Sure, it’s an obvious choice, with many a sports fan heading here after a match. But hitting up an Australiana-themed pub after the footy just makes sense. And its unpretentious vibes and ridiculously tasty food don’t hurt either. Whether you’re looking to load up on the pub’s famed schnitty or a greasy Mary’s burger, this spot has you covered. And there are plenty of vego options, too. Drinks-wise, The Unicorn boasts a selection of local craft beers alongside classic Aussie cold ones, like VB and Reschs, for the true blues out there.

You don’t even have to walk to this one. Once the match finishes up, just hop the light rail and head to the heart of Surry Hills, where you’ll find this party-loving Mexican cantina. At El Loco, you can snack on the likes of beef brisket, al pastor and fried barramundi tacos; chorizo, chicken and mushroom quesadillas; and loaded nachos. Of course, you’ll want to be sipping margaritas with your feast. Those keen for a big one are in luck, too, thanks to the bar’s lineup of DJs and entertainers plus a late-night food menu on offer after 10pm every Friday and Saturday. Oh and did we mention this restaurant near the SCG is open till 3am?

If you’re looking for an A-class tipple to finish off your game-day experience, Charlie Parker’s is a 20-minute stroll away, making it your go-to for cocktails. The basement bar set beneath Fred’s is known for its service, sophisticated sips and next-level snacks. The seasonal cocktail menu celebrates flora, with plant-to-glass concoctions like Chilli & Cucumber, featuring Olmeca Blanco tequila, pandan and citrus, and Coconut, a mix of Appleton’s Signature Blend rum, lavender and almonds. There’s also plenty of beer and wine to choose from and, for snacks, expect Euro-inspired share plates like chicken liver parfait, beef tartare and burrata.

Following an extensive renovation, this Surry Hills stalwart — and Swans-friendly venue — has entered a whole new phase of its life under Applejack Hospitality (whose stable includes Hester’s, SoCal, Bopp & Tone and Endeavour Tap Rooms).

The charming site on the corner of Riley and Foveaux Streets houses four distinct dining spaces, including a verdant, sunwashed dining room, a boisterous public bar, a cosy art room and an upstairs entertainment venue. Whether you’re coming for its menu of produce-driven pub fare (like an enormous Yorkshire pudding that encases the roast of the week) or to soak up the old-school watering hole vibes with an Aussie craft brew in hand, this is one post-game drinking spot near the SCG that guarantees a good time regardless of the final score.

Image: Kitti Gould