Opera Bar: Showing off Sydney Harbour in style
It’s hard to imagine a more glamorous location for an alfresco bar. Opera Bar resides on the lower concourse level of the Sydney Opera House, spilling out on to the promenade, level with the gently lapping harbour. It’s an enchanting prospect by day – sipping champagne under the white umbrellas by the water’s edge, but it’s by night that Opera Bar’s panoramic vista transforms into something nothing short of breathtaking.
Here, beneath the gleaming sails of Sydney’s most iconic landmark, the entire city forms the glittering backdrop to an undeniably elegant curving bar, outdoor tables lining the foreshore and an illuminated bandstand showcasing some of Sydney’s best live music and DJ talent.
Whether you’re a native or a tourist, Opera Bar is one of Sydney’s, if not the world’s, genuine must-visit nightlife destinations, and the mix of locals and out-of-towners creates a relaxed and surprisingly unpretentious atmosphere. This is still one of the city’s most sophisticated offerings, however, so arm yourself with an urban Sydneysider’s sense of style, and don’t expect the drinks to come cheap.
The food is solid, smart casual bar fare. As well as the usual meze and antipasto plates, pizza, pasta and oysters, there are more substantial mains such blue eye cod and scallop pie, and roast lamb rump with du Puy lentil salad and garlic chips. If you’re catching a show at the Opera House, a pre-theatre menu is available between 5 and 8pm.
Behind the inside bar you’ll find a 20-metre long selection of spirits and liqueurs, waiting to be shaken and stirred into the unique creations on the cocktail list. There are over 40 Australian wines by the glass, and two house beers (organic pale ale $7, and organic blonde $7.50) brewed exclusive for Opera Bar by Redoak Brewery.
HelloMetro tip: With its unbeatable view of the harbour and city skyline, Opera Bar is one of Sydney’s hottest New Years Eve venues. Tickets are available on their website from early October – get in quick.
Posted by Fiona Davies
