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Employees Only

9A Barrack St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

4.4 (1706)
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Bar

80 Seated
200 Standing

Why you'll love Employees Only

  • Fashionable, buzzing cocktail bar
  • Perfect for work functions or corporate events
  • Great cocktails and New York-inspired menu

Located in the heritage-listed basement on Barrack Street, the Employees Only is a semi-hidden gem that brings the essence of New York's West Village to Sydney. The plush green velvet, dark timber, and brass highlights create a majestic scene that is illuminated by skylights. A smart casual dress code is enforced, and the venue reserves the right to refuse entry.

The world-renowned cocktail bar is famous for its innovative and well-crafted cocktails that have garnered a worldwide following. The Amelia, made with Wyborowa Vodka, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon, and puréed blackberries, is a fan favorite. The Manhattan, made with Knob Creek Straight Rye Whiskey, Mancino Rosso Vermouth, Grand Marnier, and dashes of Angostura Bitters, is a timeless classic.

The New York-inspired menu is a fusion of French, Italian, and Australian influences. The signature dish, Steak Tartare, is handmade at your table, while the slow-roasted lamb shoulder, Truffled Mac 'n' Cheese Scrumpets, and Caviar Service are also must-tries. The venue has a resident psychic who offers signature tarot readings until the early hours.

Whether you're dining in the private room, enjoying a drink at the bar, or dancing all night long, the only rule at Employees Only Bar is to expect the unexpected. Walk-ins are welcome, but the venue can get busy late at night, so it's best to make a reservation in advance.

Located near Martin Place and Wynyard Station, the venue is hidden away behind an unassuming psychic sign. It's a great place to rub shoulders with Sydney's stylish crowd while enjoying drinks and food. However, keep in mind that the venue enforces a smart casual dress code and reserves the right to refuse entry.

In summary, Employees Only Bar is a world-renowned cocktail bar that offers a New York-inspired menu, signature tarot readings, and a memorable evening for those in a New York state of mind. The venue is located in a heritage-listed basement on Barrack Street, near Martin Place and Wynyard Station.


Employees Only Function Rooms

4 Spaces Available At This Venue
Main Dining Room

Main Dining Room

Welcome to one of Sydney's most cultured and elegant dining locations - step through the curtain and into our dining room. With a seating capacity of 55 and the ability to host over 100 guests for cocktails, it's an ideal venue for large ev...

80
200
Price on Request
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Gallery Space

Gallery Space

Located next to the bar, The Gallery Space is an intimate venue that can accommodate up to 25 guests for a cocktail-style event. With cocktails crafted by masters, a New York-inspired menu, and signature tarot readings available until the e...

25
Price on Request
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Private Room

Private Room

Looking for an intimate and private dining experience? Our private dining room is a perfect choice. We offer exclusive service and can accommodate up to 30 guests for a sit-down dinner or up to 40 guests for a cocktail-style event. Our priv...

33
55
Price on Request
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Entire Venue

Entire Venue

Unveil the mystique and sophistication of one of Sydney's most cultured and elegant event locations. Our venue boasts a seating capacity of 85 and can accommodate up to 200 guests for a cocktail-style event. Nestled in a heritage-listed bas...

80
200
Price on Request
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Google iconReviews for Employees Only

Gourmet Rara profile photo

Gourmet Rara

April 3, 2025

Absolutely top-notch service and food! The vibe at Employees Only in Sydney City is unmatched. Lorena and Adam went above and beyond to make our night one to remember — friendly, professional, and just genuinely great people. Highly recommend this place for an amazing experience. Will definitely be back!

Lynston Dsouza profile photo

Lynston Dsouza

April 22, 2025

First trip to this city and FIRST meal out was at this amazing spot, hidden in the heart of the city! Overall great drinks and food but also top notch service, special shout out to our server Juliet for her recommendations Definitely a must visit!

曾天祺 profile photo

曾天祺

April 17, 2025

Absolutely loved this place! The food was delicious and beautifully presented — you can really taste the care and quality in every dish. The staff were super friendly and attentive, making the whole experience even better. The atmosphere at night was amazing — warm, relaxed, and just the right vibe for a great evening out. The drinks were also fantastic, with some really unique and well-crafted options. You can tell this is a restaurant run with heart. Will definitely be back!

Olivia Piscioneri profile photo

Olivia Piscioneri

April 17, 2025

My partner and I attended on a Thursday night for their Tomahawk Special. The food was very tasty and the service was impeccable; very attentive staff. The DJ and atmosphere made the night. I would definitely recommend. 😊

Steffany XY profile photo

Steffany XY

December 6, 2024

10/10 cocktails! The place was hard to find though, we initially walked past it several times because all it had at the entrance was a sign that said “Psychic” 😅 Ambience was nice but music was very loud, it was hard to talk (had to shout when conversing the entire time).


Frequently Asked Questions


Amenities & Extras

Food & Beverage

Bar Tab
Coffee / Tea
Filtered Water
Venue Offers Catering

Audio Visual Equipment (AV)

Microphone
Speakers
TV

Other Amenities & Extras

Accessible
Air Con
Dance Floor
External Music or DJ
Furniture Hire
Lighting
Natural light
Pens & Paper
Restroom
Security
WiFi

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