The best bars in Bondi

There are four ways to drink at Hotel Ravesis. 1) Post-swim, downstairs with a cold schooner or cider. 2) Late night on a packed dancefloor with a vodka lime and soda or bubbles. 3) On the side balcony with a crisp rosé (which they've got on tap here) that'll match the facade's pink paint job; or finally, 4) On the front balcony overlooking the beach while exploring the wine list or diving into the fruit-heavy cocktail menu. Hotel Ravesis has your round-the-clock boozing covered.

Time Out tip: Hotel Ravesis pumps on the weekends, so if you're looking for fun (or to pick up) in the 2026 hood, head there.

This new addition to Bondi’s beachside dining scene is so pretty that the interiors almost rival the spectacular views of Australia’s most famous stretch of sand. Almost. Promenade Bondi Beach is housed in the heritage Bondi Pavilion, tucked under the Spanish-style roof and archways. Whether you're a beachgoer looking for a relaxed, post-swim beer, or are after an elegant date or special occasion location, this is one for you.

Try this: WFH? Snag $15 pizzas in the Beach Bar, Monday to Friday, 3-6pm. All you need to do is say: ‘Pink dolphin’ to your waiter (we’re not sure why either. But: $15 pizzas).

This long-standing Bondi Road corner pub is now owned by Merivale. Rather than gutting and reduxing it entirely, they've kept some of the venue's scuzzy charm that's kept locals returning since it first opened way back in 1907. The Merivale edge comes into effect via the drinks. The list has been refreshed, complete with Daiquiris, Boilermakers, bottled Negronis and Espresso Martinis on tap. Wine wise, they are focusing on Australian producers doing rosés and low intervention wines. 

Time Out tip: Forget trying to nab a booking at Totti's next door – you can order all the dishes at the Royal instead.

The army of regulars at this café and wine bar is fiercely loyal, perhaps because they know that snagging a spot in the wardrobe-sized place at peak hour feels like winning the lotto. So when you see one, don't hesitate. Plus, the people and dog watching is also excellent.

Try this: Got a date coming up? The Shop & Wine Bar is a cosy and vibey spot for it.

Few pleasures come close to sipping a Spritz the colour of a Balinese sunset at this oh-so-Sydney institution, while you stare out at the deep blue hues of the Pacific rolling down below. You pay for the privilege, but why the heck wouldn't you? And a drink, after all, is cheaper than a meal in the restaurant. Go on, treat yourself. And there are no bookings, just walk on in.

Try this: The Iceburger is one of our fave burgs – order that.

Frothing for a cold one in Bondi? Good news: the Eastern Suburbs hotspot is now home to its first brewery and taproom, Curly Lewis Brewing Co, found on Campbell Parade. The idea was sparked at a pub by four Bondi locals and mates – Adam Richards, Oliver dos Remedios, Gareth Morton, Loren Morton, and brewer Scotty Morgan – who were keen to bring local, crisp and "crackable" beers to the beach. There’s a smooth Clean Cut Lager, the dry and crisp Salty Mermaid Gose, a sour Berry Bomb and more. Our pick is the Bondi Hazy Ale – a tropical, full-bodied and hoppy beer that tastes even better after a swim.

Time Out tip: Keep one eye out for the weekly food specials, including $18 schnittys on Tuesdays.

The beach may be the jewel in Bondi’s sandy crown but some of its best features are far enough from the shoreline that you’re expected to wear shoes, even pants. So don those loafers and bring your license (Bondi Bowling Club is a club after all, so you'll need to sign in or join) and treat yourself to cracking feed and a cold one (or three) here.

Try this: Get your mates together for a fun day of barefoot bowls (and beers).

Rocker, Bondi’s cool restaurant and bar, rocks. Found 200 metres from Bondi's golden stretch of sand, the relaxed spot by Darren Robertson (also Three Blue Ducks) and Cameron Northway (also Melbourne's Loti) has been keeping Bondi locals well fed and hydrated since 2017, and the good times have just kept on coming.

Try this: Swim on over for their bottomless brunch – it's great value and one of the best in town.

There aren't all that many places you can score a proper Bloody Caesar in the Harbour City, or proper poutine for that matter. You can snag both at the Beaver, and we'll happily drink to that.

Time Out picks: The beer and vino list features lots of local favourites like Marrickville's the Grifter Brewing Co.

This chic restaurant-cum-bar has commanded the corner of Denham Street and Bondi Road for years, and remains a laid-back locale for wine-driven adventures.

Time Out tip: From the street, this looks just like a restaurant, but take the stairs to level one and you’ll discover cocktails, snacks and good times. 

Hardware was one of the first spots in Bondi to tackle the 'creative share plates and solid cocktails in industrial surrounds' brief, and it has stood the test of the time on Hall Street for getting it right.

Time Out tip: There's often live music and DJs spinning tunes at this Bondi haunt.

A big night at the Beachy is pretty much a Sydney rite of passage, so if you haven't gotten amongst it yet, it's probably time to tick that box. And if you have, you know it's just as rewarding for a quiet beer and a game of pool. 

Time Out tip: Keen for a rager? This is your place.