Best Pubs in Paddington

by Dan Cunningham

Updated February 23rd, 2021

Paddington’s well known for its historic sandstone buildings, pretty Victorian-era terraces, fashion boutiques, and lavish bars and restaurants.

Classic pubs? Not so much. Nonethless, these boozers have been lubricating locals ever since Victoria Barracks was established in 1841. And though Paddo’s changed a lot since then, many of these stalwarts are still kicking, keeping the suburb grounded with their old-world charm.

In Paddington’s leafy (and expensive) backstreets, you’ll find bona fide sports pubs, beloved neighbourhood boltholes and rosé-ready rooftops. On Paddo’s section of Oxford Street, things get a little more upmarket – fully-fledged Italian restaurants are hiding behind some pub facades, while others have serious and extensive drinks lists that contrast with their old-timey fit-outs.

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The Unicorn Hotel
Bar
A lot of pubs get major revamps, only to lose their old-school charm. Not the Unicorn. The team here have given the spot a stylish but sill pubby fit-out. Drinks here are an inclusive mix of commercial brews and natural wines. Food, meanwhile, involves jazzed up pub classics, and probably the best schnitzel in Sydney.
The Paddington
Bar
Like a cross between a pub, a bistro and chicken shop. Enjoy the rotisserie-focused menu in this sleek and sunny fit-out. If you've got a solid amount of pals for an event, ask for the private space, a magnificent frieze-covered dining room with a sun roof.
Four in Hand
Restaurant
This backstreet local made a particular name for itself under Colin Fassnidge's culinary leadership but is now under new management. It retains its produce-driven menu but without the nose-to-tail ideas Fassnidge was keen on. There's a bigger wine selection than most pubs and taps pour all of the classics.
The Village Inn
Bar
One of Paddington's old guard, with the doors originally opening in 1890. The current iteration is renowned for its weekly specials and the sunny balcony that overlooks Glenmore Road. Dining is typical pub fare (burgers, steaks and salads), but it’s well executed.
The London
Bar
This classic English pub was founded in 1875. There are little Union Jack flags on the table and a menu that lists everything from fish and chips to dhal. It's a classic family pub, filled with dogs, daily specials and match-day Swans supporters.
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Bellevue
Bar
Bordering Woollahra and Paddington, this fine old boozer is one of the area’s oldest (it opened in 1880). These days it’s one of the best spots in the area to catch some live sport, with screens in nearly every section. The upstairs bistro, with its weekday specials, is also popular.
The Royal Hotel
Bar
Three unique spaces in a Victorian-era pub package. The brassy, stain-glassed Royal Bar downstairs is a great spot for a beer and some live sport. Upstairs the bistro does all of the pub classics. One more level, and you’re on the rooftop. You can dine year-round up here, thanks to some retractable coverage. But in summer, it’s rosé-ready – the good stuff is pouring on tap.
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