The Shire’s Best Hot Spots For A Cheeky Weekend Tipple
If a pre or post-dinner drink and good vibes is what you seek, you’ve come to the right place
Whether you’re a lover of fine wine, a cocktail list frequenter or craft beer enthusiast, these Shire establishments are some of our favourite places to uncork, unwind and raise a glass! Drawing people from far and wide (yes, even from outside the Shire), below you’ll find your next spot for a pre-dinner drink, a Sunday rosé with the girls or a night out with the lads.
So when you’re ready to kick back with a brew (or two), refer back to this: here is Scout’s list of the Sutherland Shire’s 12 best places for a drink.
Cony’s
Shaded by a huge palm and set just a few streets back from South Cronulla beach, Cony’s is to evenings what Grind is to mornings. That’s right, when the sun goes down Thursday to Sunday, South American-inspired Cony’s is one of our favourite places for tapas and cocktails. Choose from one of the gang’s signature cocktails, or one of their five custom-recipe margs (which includes not one, but two spicy options). A side of gauc and chips is non-negotiable!
15 Surf Road, Cronulla
Next Door
Although it’s probably considered a step up from a bar, seaside cafe and restaurant Next Door wins a spot on our list for its cocktails, selection of tasty nibbles and all-round good vibes (plus, it’s a favourite of Scout Founder and Director, Bronte). The Marjorie and Lillibet are total winners, but to be honest, you really can’t go wrong with any pick from their drinks list.
4/6 Kingsway, Cronulla
Zinc Bar
Happy, casual and carefree, waterfront Zinc Bar claims to be “the most chilled spot in Cronulla”, and they’re not wrong. A packed-out cocktail menu served from midday meets a bistro-style food menu, allowing you to linger longer and really stretch out the day. We recommend finishing off with an Espresso Martini (always), and arriving in time for happy hour, which runs from 4:00pm until 6:00pm on Fridays.
1 McDonald Street, Cronulla
Papa J’s
Given that it is a collaboration between Josh Metcalfe and Carl and Brooke Jensen (of Summersalt and Jensen’s), you shouldn’t have to second guess the quality of food and drink you’ll be getting at the sophisticated and moody Papa J’s. With pages and pages of the crew’s twists on classics (including an entire one dedicated to margaritas and another to gin and tonics), a substantial wine list, and quality spirits served straight up, the hardest part will be stopping at just one drink. You’ll have to plan multiple visits to try everything that’s catching your eye!
7/2-6 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Blind Bear
Dark, moody and rustic with an American saloon twist, Blind Bear has been a Shire favourite since way back in 2013. A curated list of signature cocktails will win you over, and the extensive list of classics, pub-style nibbles and craft beers will keep you there. Hot tip: if you can swing a Friday visit, you’ll enjoy selected classic cocktails for just $10 from 6:00pm until 8:00pm. Don’t miss their famous Apple Whiskey.
28 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Sista Gin
Hidden along Cronulla Mall, Sista Gin is the Shire's rooftop bar we didn't know we needed. On Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:00pm, sip cocktails, graze tapas, and enjoy live DJ sets. Perfect for groups, settle in outside among the fairy lights or cozy up in their moody, intimate cocktail lounge. During the week, expect a more casual dining experience with the restaurant open Tuesday to Sunday.
7/1 Cronulla Street, Cronulla
Skeeta’s Southside
Tucked away under Jannali post office, Skeeta’s Southside is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it type of place. Dishing up tapas-style eats alongside great wine and craft beer every Wednesday through to Sunday, this tidy little spot is the perfect hangout for post-work drinks accompanied by live music. The Scout team recommends trying the Rosé from Mudgee paired with a trio of dips.
7/544 Box Road, Jannali
Black Swan
Dark, cosy and low-key, Black Swan serves from a succinct list of carefully selected wines, locally brewed drops and small bites. Not just a bar, Black Swan also plays host to live gigs, tastings and trivia on the regular - and have just recently opened up a whole new alfresco section, where dogs are not only allowed, but encouraged.
361 Port Hacking Road, Caringbah
Croydon Lane
Hidden away from prying eyes, Croydon Lane is one of the Shire’s cosiest spots to gather for an evening drink. Despite its secret location, Croydon Lane is fully-fledged, boasting a sunny wine garden, banquette seating for enjoying their Spanish-inspired tapas menu, and even a private function room. An extensive drinks list is the calling card - we highly recommend Quill and Dune.
8/30 Kingsway, Cronulla
The Snug Bar Gymea
The Snug Bar operates on a first in, best dressed basis, so you know you’re going to be in for a relaxed and casual time in this Gymea hang out. A leafy internal courtyard, wine barrel tables, and a timber-clad bar impart an Irish/Euro pub vibe, while the drinks menu offers contemporary takes on classics.
Shop 2-3/752-756 Kingsway, Gymea
Low and Loftys
Starring the low and slow cooking techniques of Texas alongside the flavours and spices of the Caribbean, the crew at Low and Loftys pride themselves on offering a good time. Choose from their extensive cocktail list, book in for their monthly comedy night and enjoy their weekend old-school DJs on Friday and Saturday nights.
51A Cronulla Street, Cronulla
The Alley at Rydges
Offering a casual beachside hotel experience, The Alley at Rydges welcomes guests and visitors alike to indulge in their well-loved list of delicious food and drinks. Take it all in by having a seat alfresco, or keep it cosy (with a view) by sipping your cocktails indoors. And, if you really want to make a night of it, why not book a stay while you’re at it?
20-26 Kingsway, Cronulla