The Rover

One of Surry Hills' favourite hidden bars has had a refurb, and we couldn’t be more jazzed. Behind the Surry Hills re-opening is the Liquid and Larder hospo group, responsible for venues like Bistecca, The Gidley, and Grandma’s.

The Rover (formerly The Wild Rover) re-joined Campbell Street as an ideal date spot—still keeping its moody vibes and some of its Irish heritage, after a polish and some stylish NYC-style cocktail bar touches.

Downstairs, the British tavern-cum-New York cocktail bar vibe stands strong, true to the venue's whiskey bar origins with plenty of nips available from around the globe. Award-winning sommelier Kyle Poole (Orana Restaurant, Rockpool Bar & Grill, Woodcut) has also helped the bar shift its vino focus with a stellar list of 50 organic and bio-dynamic wines from near and far.

Cocktails come courtesy of 2019 Australian Bartender of the Year Alex Gondzioulis, who’s concocted a few twists on beloved classics, making full use of the whiskey-filled back bar for highballs that incorporate house-made ferments.

Upstairs, The Rover transforms into a cosy British-inspired seafood restaurant, with fuss-free fare like daily platters of chilled crustaceans with three sauces, hearty fish pies, and snacks like potato chips with caviar. Oysters (the best the market has to offer) remain a staple on both levels.

Look for the same green door that still muffles the boisterous sounds of a buzzing bar, keeping secure the dimly lit tavern’s amber glow. 

Image credit: Dominic Loneragan