Rooftop Hottest 100 Party

Overview

Each year as the end of January rolls around, there's one important decision that must be made: Where are you going to listen to the Hottest 100?

Whether you get fully wrapped up in the countdown or you're just tuning in to complain about how it was better back when you were 18, the annual day-long journey of the year's democratically-anointed best songs always ends up providing a great backdrop to whatever you're up to.

While backyard cricket and poolside beers are often the go-to accompaniment for the day's tunes, one Sydney venue is suggesting a different setting — The Taphouse's bright and bustling rooftop bar.

Formerly a more serious watering hole dedicated to craft beers and Sunday roasts, The Taphouse reopened in 2023 under the guidance of Applejack Hospitality (RAFI, Forrester's, The Butler) with a fresh fit-out and nostalgic menu that takes inspiration from classic suburban Chinese restaurants.

As part of the rejuvenation, the rooftop bar was also given a facelift, returning as a breezy hangout spot. And that's where The Taphouse will be hosting its Hottest 100 party on Saturday, January 27.

Snag a spot up above the streets of Darlinghurst and enjoy a roster of moreish share plates and refreshing bevs as Triple J rolls through the hits of 2023.

You can pair countdown entries from Kylie Minogue, Royel Otis, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers, Billie Eilish and Olivia Rodrigo with salt and pepper oyster mushrooms, roast duck plates, wok-fried mud crab and barbecue pork buns.

Craft beer enthusiasts will be pleased that despite its new owners, The Taphouse still has a hefty roster of brews on offer, including Mountain Culture Status Quo, Grifter Serpents Kiss, Hawke's Patio Ale and long necks of Tsingtao. There will also be frosé and frozen gin coladas available on the daily, alongside the venue's usual roster of wines and cocktails.

Even better, $1 for every cocktail purchased on the day will be donated to Headspace — so you can feel good about ordering a Szechuan margarita or miso old fashioned.

Top image: Steven Woodburn