Bigger is not always better. Here’s our pick of the best hidden, laneway and cosy small bars to seek out in Australia.
Australia has some of the best small bars in the world – if you know where to look. From Melbourne’s laneway gems to Sydney’s underground favourites, Adelaide’s neighbourhood haunts to Hobart’s dinky drinkeries, the national small bar scene is buzzing. Here are some of the best we’ve seen pop up in recent years and why they prove that big is not always better.
Though Melburnians are undeniably spoilt for choice when it comes to tiny bars, Above Board is a cocktail bar that deserves a special shout-out. Finding it is half the fun: head down the graffiti-riddled Chopper Lane in Collingwood and climb the wooden stairs to the quirky, pocket-sized space. With only 16 seats and all the alcohol hidden away in drawers, Above Board boasts a concise menu of 25 cocktails, split into signatures and updated classics. It made the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars list in 2021, so it’s well worth a visit.
In Sydney, standout small bars include Cantina OK (a micro mezcal haven), Piccolo Bar (formerly a hole-in-the-wall cafe, it's now a hopping aperitivo bar and diner), and Love, Tilly Devine (the hideaway feel and 300-strong wine list makes it an excellent date night destination – see left).
Adelaide locals will appreciate the cool aesthetic of Bar Peripheral, a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it 12-seat cocktail bar that aims to provide a place of respite and quietude. Owner and bartender Vini takes inspiration from his Korean heritage as well as the idea that you’re not truly a master of your craft until you’ve spent your whole life refining your skills. Dim, moody and intimate, the space features black-out blinds to maintain a consistent environment inside no matter what the weather or time of day.
Small bar lovers will also find sanctuary (and a top-notch tipple) at Adelaide’s Loc, a tiny natural wine bar where you can pick your wine right off the shelf instead of waiting for a bartender to serve you.
Those exploring the Apple Isle will find interesting libations accompanied by Italian-style food at Hobart’s Sonny, a vinyl-spinning bar and bistro where you can settle in for an ambient evening with a bottle and your bestie.
