Its effervescent harbor might get all the glory, but the hip ’hood of Surry Hills in Sydney is cultural dynamite. Hidden among its leafy streets and 19th-century terrace houses are some of the city’s best small bars, eateries, and independent art venues.
GOLDEN AGE CINEMA & BAR
Occupying the heritage-listed Paramount Pictures Building, this throwback 1940s-era cinema and bar screens cult classics and new releases in an atmospheric Art Deco setting. Visit the Golden Stage on Friday and Saturday for live music spanning contemporary jazz to Colombian beats. ourgoldenage.com.au
BAR COPAINS
There’s no shortage of small bars in this district, but this hatted (Restaurant Chef Hat Awards are Australia’s version of the Michelin Star) opening makes a strong case for pacing yourself. Partake in Sydney’s grazing craze and book a table at this neighborhood wine bar to sample natural Aussie wines while nibbling at small plates of bacon and comté custard tart or scallop with smoked tomato, jamón, and lime. barcopains.com
WHITE HORSE
One of Crown Street’s most iconic places is fresh from a $6M facelift. This contemporary take on the casual Aussie watering hole features a slick restaurant, a luxe bar, and a rooftop terrace that’s begging for refreshing cocktails drenched in sun. Order the Queen’s Gambit with white rum, maraschino, and native Davidson plum. thewhitehorse.com.au
FIREDOOR
Chef Lennox Hastie cut his teeth cooking with fire at renowned restaurants in Spain’s Basque country and this award-winning restaurant is an homage to the element and a spectacular display of his craft. Watch as seasonal ingredients such as dry-aged steak and Murray cod are worked by flames in an open kitchen that runs medieval-style without gas or electricity. firedoor.com.au
APY GALLERY
Named after Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara country in northwest South Australia, this Indigenous-owned gallery exhibits ethically sourced artwork by contemporary Aboriginal artists; 80% of the sale price goes to community-owned art centers. A number of the artists on display have been shortlisted for Australia’s most prominent art prizes. apygallery.com
ELMS
If you travel light, it might be time to rethink your strategy. This lifestyle and housewares boutique stocks trinkets and apparel by quality Australian and Kiwi designers, including statement earrings and rings by local Sydney jewelry master Amber Sceats. You can also find handmade Città ceramics and colorful babywear by Kip&Co. elmsstore.com.au