European Bars, Sydney Style
Today is Tavern Day, an occasion which marks the opening of America’s first tavern in Boston in 1634. To celebrate, the
Travel Channel is serving up details of some of the world’s coolest bars.
Here in Sydney, we’re lucky enough to have one of the globe’s most multicultural populations. Our bar scene reflects this, with pubs proudly representing folks from all over the world. Here’s my guide to experiencing the best of Europe without ever leaving the city.
Ireland - Sydney has plenty of Irish bars, but my favourite is Scruffy Murphys (43-49 Goulburn St, Sydney). This friendly pub in the heart of the city is the perfect place to enjoy a pint of Guinness.
Germany - There are also a bunch of German pubs in Sydney, but the granddaddy of them all is the Löwenbräu Keller (Corner of Playfair and Argyle Streets, The Rocks). With an oompah band, busty beer wenches, and plenty of Bavarian bier it’s like stepping into Germany. Make sure you stay for dinner - the schnitzels and goulashes are divine.
Belgium - The Belgians share honours with Germany for producing some of the best beers in the world, and they’re all on show at the Belgian Beer Café (135 Harrington Street, The Rocks). Any place that doesn’t just have a wine menu, but a beer menu too, gets my vote.
England - The Nag’s Head (162 St Johns Road, Glebe) may be a traditional British style bar, but don’t expect lukewarm beer here. The bistro features old favourites like bangers and mash and fish and chips. Visit on Sundays to enjoy free pool.
France - Moulin Rouge Down Under (39 Darlinghurst Road, Kings Cross) brings all the decadence and debauchery of Paris’ most favourite nightspot to Sydney. It may be in Kings Cross, but this burlesque bar is more fun and cheesy than sleazy.
Image source: Toby Forage @ Flickr
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POSTED IN: Food & Beverage

2 opinions for European Bars, Sydney Style
Jon - The DC Traveler
Mar 4, 2008 at 6:23 pm
What? No classic Aussie pub?
But with bangers and mash, fish and chips, oompah bands, pints of Guinness, schnitzel and goulash and burlesque, I guess you don’t need one.
Cheers!!!
Lauren
Mar 4, 2008 at 10:15 pm
*lol* Every other pub is an Aussie pub, and there’s one of those on most street corners. As I’m sure you’ve heard, Aussies like to drink ;-).
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