Dean & Nancy on 22

With its 360-degree aspect, two-storey windows and location atop Sydney’s A by Adina Hotel, Dean & Nancy on 22 effortlessly affords one of the best drinking views in town. The leather banquettes and kitchen look out over garden rooftops, and glimpses of the harbour can be spotted between sandstone buildings and ultra-contemporary glass towers.

The team behind Maybe Sammy are also behind this place, and they’ve taken inspiration from the golden age of hotel bars in New York, Paris and London. It’s a sleek spot – but the restrained black, marble and gold aesthetic allows the food, drink and view to take centre stage.

As at Maybe Sammy, creative director Stefano Filardi approaches the cocktail menu with the care and seriousness of a man who oversees the drinks at one of the world’s best bars, and the playfulness of someone who loves his job.

On the drinks list, you can expect several Martinis (they come in full and miniature serves), tall easy-drinkers and a selection of “brown, bitter and stirred” libations. But the list of signature drinks, named after iconic sites all over the world, is where things really get interesting. The Gherkin, inspired by London’s 30 St Axe Mary building, is a concoction mixing Hendrick’s gin, fresh watermelon and cucumber, and topped with peach and white jasmine soda.

The menu of snacks and share plates also has an international focus. Bounce between Sydney rock oysters with mignonette; prawn toast with miso mayo, yuzu and shiso; and Nepali tacos stuffed with chicken, tamarind and mint yoghurt. The tinned fish, charcuterie, caviar and cheese selection are all there to remind you that this is a hotel bar after all – one of Sydney’s best.