5 Best Cabarets in Sydney (2026)

The Baxter Inn is an underground whisky bar in the CBD, tucked down an unmarked staircase off Clarence Street, with one of the largest whisky collections in the city behind the bar. It's walk-in only, no reservations, and the space leans into a moody, low-lit speakeasy feel with a rotating cocktail list. The bar is part of the Swillhouse group, which also runs several other well-known Sydney venues.

Bar 83 sits 83 floors up in Sydney Tower, offering a near-360-degree view of the city and harbour alongside a bar-fare and cocktail menu. The venue runs bookable packages, including a sky-high seats experience, and pairs with a revolving restaurant one floor below for anyone wanting a full meal. It's positioned as an event and function space as much as a casual drop-in bar.

ivy Sydney is a large multi-level night club and event venue on George Street, part of the Merivale hospitality group, known for ticketed events, DJ sets, and a high-energy dance floor. Beyond the club, the ivy precinct includes a cafe, pub, and restaurant, so it functions as a whole night-out destination rather than a single room. Reviews describe it as one of the more iconic big-club experiences in the CBD.

Jolene's Sydney is a Nashville-inspired basement bar on York Street built around live country and western music, running performances several nights a week alongside an American whiskey collection and classic bar food. It's the closest thing on this page to a genuine cabaret-style show night, with a dedicated stage and regular live acts rather than a DJ booth. The venue leans hard into its Southern-hospitality theme, down to the menu and the staff banter.

Cabana Bar is a Martin Place venue with indoor and outdoor space, positioned as a functions and events destination as much as a casual bar, with capacity for large private bookings. It sits close to Theatre Royal, making it a common pre-show stop, and the food menu comes from an AHA Chef of the Year. The venue is expanding its rooftop and event spaces, according to its own site.