The Glenmore Hotel

Perched in the historic heart of The Rocks—this multi-level institution is your golden ticket to staggering, unfiltered views of Sydney Harbour. Forget the usual tourist traps. Savvy Sydneysiders make a beeline straight for the rooftop, securing fiercely contested real estate for weekend sessions. Punters consistently praise the kitchen's serious upgrade to classic pub grub—delivering everything from rich, comforting lamb shank pies and crispy karaage chicken burgers to surprisingly vibrant salmon poke bowls. Grab a schooner of local tap beer or a warming mulled wine and soak in the lively, elbow-to-elbow energy. It gets packed, and the bar can get a bit chaotic during peak hours—so book your table well in advance, brave the bustling crowds, and let that sweeping Opera House backdrop do the heavy lifting.