Bar Topa

Tucked down Palings Lane—right next to the sprawling dining rooms—sits an impossibly cozy sliver of San Sebastián right in the Sydney CBD. Those fluent in the city's hospitality scene bypass the massive tables for this intimate, bar-stool-lined nook. It’s a masterclass in authentic tapeo. Glowing ambiance. Elbow-to-elbow energy. Plates that command absolute attention. Spanish expats nod in approval at the spot-on boquerones en vinagre and flawless pan con tomate. You’re coming for the wildly addictive, perfectly blistered patatas bravas—plus a downright decadent, earthy mushroom dish layered with a silky egg yolk. Finish with a wedge of Basque cheesecake and another round of Gildas anchored by top-tier anchoas. Warm, effortless hospitality. Tiny footprint, massive flavor. Grab a stool and settle in.