Hey there, fellow bar-hopper! Ready for a boozy adventure through the charming streets of Rozelle? Buckle up because we’re about to dive into some of the best spots this suburb has to offer.
Bald Rock Hotel
Picture this: You stroll into the Bald Rock Hotel and instantly you’re hit with that classic Aussie pub vibe. It’s cozy, it’s relaxed and it’s filled with locals who make you feel right at home. Now, what’s on the agenda? Drinks, of course! Start with a crisp Brookvale Union Ginger Beer to cool off, then switch gears with a pint of the iconic Reschs Draught. Thirst quenched? Time to dig into some good ol’ pub grub. From juicy burgers to crispy schnitties, they’ve got all the classics covered. On the weekends, check out the live music they have installed and Happy Hour are weekdays from 3pm – 6pm with a selection of beers and wines from $6.
15 Mansfield St, Rozelle NSW 2039, Australia
T: +61 2 9818 4792 | E: info@baldrockhotel.com.au | Book Online
White Bay Beer Co
Next stop, is White Bay Beer Co, a paradise for craft beer aficionados. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted with the heavenly aroma of hops and barley. Grab yourself a tasting paddle and prepare for a flavour explosion. My selections were from the citrusy Crusher Hazy Session Pale, smooth White Bay Lager, Sunny Hazy Australian Pale, Gantry Crane Czech Style Pilsner, Bat Low Cider, and the Dream Fusion Modern Fruit Sour. But there’s something to tickle everyone’s taste buds. And hey, why not pair your brews with some wood-fired pizzas from Tipo-oo Balmain Pizza? It’s a match made in beer-and-pizza heaven!
26C Mansfield St, Rozelle NSW 2039, Australia
E: hello@whitebay.beer
The Welcome Hotel
Now, let’s add a touch of an instiution to our bar crawl with a visit to The Welcome Hotel. This place oozes a historic charm and stylish decor. It’s all about kicking back and enjoying some top-notch cocktails. Take your pick from their impressive selection, whether you’re craving a classic martini or something more adventurous. And when hunger strikes, dive into their gourmet menu featuring seasonal delights that perfectly complement your drink of choice. Keen for Trivia Tuesdays, Saturday’s House Session with the house band & guest to their traditional Sunday Roast. This place has it all.
91 Evans St, Rozelle NSW 2039, Australia
T: +61 2 9810 1323
Sackville Hotel
Last but not least, we’re wrapping up our night at the Sackville Hotel. Get ready to groove to some live DJ music while sipping on cocktails. Every Friday night groove to live music from 8:30pm to kickstart your weekend the right way. On Saturday nights there are DJs from 10pm ’til late in the Public Bar to get you shaking and moving. They will make sure to keep the cold drinks flowing, so you can focus on hitting the dancefloor all night long, with $15 signature cocktails from 9pm to 11pm.
599 Darling Street, Rozelle 2039, Australia
T: +61 2 9555 7555 | E: sackvillehotel@solotel.com.au
Bonus Stops
The Three Weeds: Originally established in 1881 to service the drinking needs of Rozelle’s rough-and-ready working-class locals, the pub has gone the same way as the suburb itself and been gentrified to the hilt, but it’s a rich and sympathetic refurb we’re talking about here. No shiny chrome in sight: instead, the 3 Weeds is all dark wood, recycled timber, fireplaces, antique couches and a kitchen garden.
Corner Bar Rozelle: Transforming from a trendy day café into an intimate bar come nightfall, diners are treated to friendly service, a hearty food menu and diverse beverages that include a unique biodynamic Shiraz from Blind Corner Winery, craft brews and zesty cocktails.
Ruby L’otel: At first glance, Rozelle’s Ruby L’otel could be suffering from an identity crisis. But somehow the mish-mash of spaces, drinks and food actually works. The original part of the pub is all old-school drinking den, while out the back there is a beach-shack bungalow vibe going on. The confusion extends to the menu, which has traditional pub grub competing for space with dumplings and little tacos.
The Red Lion Hotel: Finding a proper old-timers pub in swiftly gentrifying Rozelle can be a tall order these days but the slighty down at heel red Lion is keeping the time honoured traditions of the batller pub alive and kicking. The beers are cold and familiar, they do simple counter meals and if it’s warm the big vernadah has the best seats in the house.
Whether you’re a seasoned local or a curious visitor, exploring Rozelle’s bars is always a good idea. So gather your mates, raise your glasses, and let the good times roll. Cheers to that!
