Top 5 wine bars in Sydney
When it comes to the best wine bars in Australia’s Harbour City, we asked our seasoned Sydney sippers at Mofo HQ for their personal recommendations. Whether you’re a local or on a mini-vacay, make sure you add these fancy five to your itinerary and soak up the best food and wine the city has to offer.
1.Monopole: 71A Macleay St, Potts Point, 2011
“Meaning ‘one wine, one vineyard, one producer’ in French, Monopole is the brainchild of two respected Sydney hospos with a passion for wicked food and wine. This place opened a couple of years ago when I was living in Potts Point, and it was my go-to for aperitivo. Forget Aperol Spritz, I’m talking about serious French juice. The kind of wine you’d crack open with advertising executives after shaking on a big deal. The place is always packed, so getting a table for dinner can be tricky, but the buzz is awesome; so stay for a drink. Perch at bar, order some nibbles, people watch and then head to The Apollo for a Greek feast. The saganaki drizzled with honey is to die for”. - Hamish
2. Mille Vini: 397 Crown Street, Sydney, 2010
“Staying in Europe (well, in spirit anyway), this chic Italian wine bar was around the corner from where my first job was in Surrey Hills. It was the place I’d go to wash the day away, and also where I really ‘got’ what food and wine matching was all about. A combo of killer sauvignon blanc (don’t judge me) and olives opened up my eyes to whole new world of flavour. My tastes have changed since then, now you’ll find me tucking into their rabbit ragu with tarragon, preserved lemon and mascarpone and a glass of prosecco. Slick, cool and full of good vibes, this wine bar is great for first dates. Just ask our buyers Kate and Karel, who shared their first kiss here, and are still starry eyed today. Cheers to love!” - Hamish
3. The Winery: 285A Crown Street, Surry Hills, 2010
“Ready to party? Then you better stock up on Berocca and have Uber on speed dial, ‘cause this place is made for debauchery. With its speakeasy meets colonial style decor, this quirky oasis will whisk you away to a place of food, fun, fashion, art and music. With a full calendar of themed food and wine events, this place is pumping every night of the week. Whether you’re after a big session, some simple share plates or a serious sit-down meal, you’re in safe hands here. In summer, their beer garden is one of my fave spots in Sydney to smash a vino from their thoughtful and accessible ‘wines by the glass’ list. A place where the beautiful people play, that must be why Hamish got lucky here. Touché mate, touché.” - Karel
4. North Bondi Fish: 120 Ramsgate Avenue, North Bondi, 2026
“After an intensive workout and an acai bowl, it’s time to ditch the activewear and reward yourself with some cool, crisp pinot grigio and delish fish for lunch. Located a stone’s throw from the famous beach itself, this is the most blissful place to watch the white horses roll in. One of Matt Moran’s ventures, this joint captures the casual ocean lifestyle of Sydney to a tee and serves it up alongside stunning seafood. Charcoal roasted king prawns, grilled scallops and rock oysters with a chardonnay vinegar mignonette - order them all! If you’re up for a nautical flavour adventure, you’re going to sail away to a very happy place here.” - Sigourney
5. 10 William Street: 10 William Street, Paddington, 2021
“It’s a perk of the job that I get to eat and drink in some pretty swish places around the world, and this is up there among the best of them. Sure, the place is so tiny you can find yourself on your neighbour’s knee, but it’s a small price to pay for this experience. The food is next level, without the associated cost or aloof attitude, but the wine will leave your wallet feeling lighter. However, in my experience, a top notch Burgundy is priceless and certainly one you should indulge in every once in awhile. One of Paddington’s best kept secrets, this suave bar is one you’ll only want to share with your inner circle. Consider this review the secret handshake you’ll need to bag a seat in this cheeky eatery.” - Karel.