The best cocktail bar in Sydney CBD.
A hidden New York speakeasy in the heart of Sydney. Award-winning mixologists, a moody basement atmosphere, and the kind of hospitality you come back for. Listed among the Best Bars in Sydney by Urban List, Time Out, Hidden Secrets and Man of Many.
An award-winning cocktail programme.
Our Sydney outpost of New York's favourite bar was originally built for the night owls of the hospitality industry. Bar manager Robert Kreuger puts it plainly: "Employees Only was founded on the philosophy that there's no better clientele for your bar than those who work in service."
What started as a bartender's bar has become one of Sydney CBD's most-recommended cocktail destinations — a place where classic technique meets modern flair, where every drink is built with precision, and where the room does half the work.
The bar, and then some.
Signature Cocktails
Our bartenders have trained across New York, Singapore, Miami and Hong Kong. Syrups, infusions and cordials made daily in-house. See the list.
Sydney's Best Happy Hour
Tue–Fri 4–6pm. Oysters from $4, spritzes $12, house spirits $8. See specials.
Live Entertainment
Resident burlesque performers every Friday and Saturday night. DJs on the late licence until 3am.
New York Steakhouse
1.2kg grain-fed tomahawks, hand-made tartare at the table, French technique across Australian produce. See the food menu.
Late Licence
Open until 3am Friday and Saturday. One of the only cocktail bars in Sydney CBD that stays this late without cutting corners.
Good to know.
What makes Employees Only one of the best bars in Sydney?
A New York speakeasy pedigree since 2004, award-winning bartenders, eighty cocktails, live burlesque and a real kitchen, hidden on Barrack Street.
Where is the bar?
On Barrack Street in the Sydney CBD, a short walk from Wynyard Station, behind the red psychic sign.
Do I need a reservation?
Walk-ins are welcome at the bar. Book a table for groups and for Friday and Saturday nights.
How late is it open?
Open Tuesday to Saturday from 4pm with a late licence to 3am Friday and Saturday.