The Central Coast Bar Scene: 18 Top Bars and Pubs for 2024

These are the best Central Coast bars and pubs for a fun night out or a relaxed Sunday session with family and friends, according to local expert Megan Arkinstall.

This former sleepy holiday region has grown into a hub of hospitality, providing cultured options for the adults among us. While a slew of restaurant openings has certainly fed the hungry, the thirsty have been rewarded with a number of heavy-hitting bars and breweries. Here, we list our favourite bars, pubs, and breweries on the Central Coast.

1. Maew Maew, Terrigal

Climb the stairs at this beachside venue to find kitsch Asian eatery and bar Maew Maew (which means ‘cat’ in Thai), Terrigal’s newest bar and restaurant. Serving Asian eats with funky beats, this is the place to come for some ‘late night noods’ and a cocktail with a view (try and nab one of the high tables that line the front window).

The blushing pink and aqua-hued space is styled with a clash of neon and delicate floral-shaped lights. Come night-time, the bar is packed out with party-goers making their way through the Asian-inspired cocktail list: try the elegant Yuzu and Matcha Slipper topped with edible flowers or the fun-loving Pattaya Punch, which comes with fairy floss and a mini disco ball.

Address: 90 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

2. Hotel Gosford, Gosford

This heritage-listed waterhole was completely reimagined from tired old pub to Art Deco establishment, paying homage to its 1926 roots. Rich dark timbers, ambient lighting, brass accents and leather seating create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Come by for a meal at Earl’s Kitchen, a relaxed dining space with a pub-style menu created around local produce. Or drop in for a tipple from the extensive beverage list – it has 32 tap beers, a whisky vault with optional whisky flights, and creative cocktails (including seven types of margaritas). Come the weekend, this historic hotel is buzzing with people having a good time.

Address: 179 Mann Street, Gosford

A stone’s throw from The Entrance waterfront, this pub-turned-hip hotspot is happening year-round. Mrs May Bistro & Bar is the main eatery, designed with stylish curves, gold accents and soft neutral colours. Its pavilion with fireplace is a coveted spot come winter to relax with a glass of wine. While in summer, the outdoor beer garden is the place to be: its retractable roof lets in the sunshine and good vibes year-round, with live music over the weekends. Sports fanatics will find solace in Taffy’s sports bar, which has booths with personal TVs to watch all the big games from NRL to NBL. The Lager-ita jug is a unique twist to enjoy with friends; tequila, lime, agave and lager.

Address: 87 The Entrance Road, The Entrance

4. Lost Souls, Terrigal

Calling all metal, rock and punk fans. Lost Souls on the esplanade of Terrigal is right up your alley. Black walls are plastered with band posters, skateboards and dark street art. Pick your poison with cocktails such as Bloody Sabbath, Deadly Nightshade and Fear of the Dark and settle in for a night of late-night metal, emo, punk rock – or whatever the theme for the evening is. Lost Souls provides the nostalgia, too, with rock karaoke, pinball machines, Nintendo and Street Fighter comps.

Pinball machines at Lost Souls in Terrigal — Lost Souls delivers a hefty dose of nostalgia.

Address: 55 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

5. Motel Mezza, Wyong

Housed in a former 1930s bank on a corner block in Wyong, the elegant Motel Mezza bar and restaurant is resplendent in Art Deco styling and serves a Middle Eastern menu that’s designed to share with friends. But more impressive is its extensive beverage menu – with Mezza Twist cocktails such as the Zaatar Paloma, with tequila, zaatar syrup and fresh grapefruit, and a Pineapple and Saffron Martini. There is live music every Tuesday, which makes for a bit of mid-week fun, and trivia nights and belly dancing nights once a month.

Wine is poured over a banquet of food at Motel Mezza in Wyong — Motel Mezza’s Middle Eastern menu is designed to share with friends.

Address: 98 Pacific Hwy, Wyong

6. Jerry Sent Me, Wyong

When we think speakeasy, this is what we imagine. Tucked away in a historic building, complete with timber rafters, barn doors, concrete floors and a pressed-metal ceiling, this dimly lit, vintage-style bar feels like prohibition all over again. Settle into a leather chair, cosy up in front of the log fire come winter and order a whiskey to enjoy with a grazing board.

Bartender at Jerry Sent Me in Wyong — Jerry Sent Me is a speakeasy bar in Wyong that should be on your radar.

Address: 14/16 Alison Road, Wyong

7. Bay Road Brewing, Gosford

Like most breweries, Bay Road was built by mates who love beer and good times. The light and bright space in Gosford produces a long list of brews including the Gossy Good Times hazy pale, Coastal Crush pale ale and a White Russian stout, all packaged in cans with bright and funky designs. The taphouse is kid-friendly and dog-friendly so you can bring the whole gang to sample the goods and enjoy a rotating menu of street food such as burgers, fried chicken and baos. Keep an eye out for the regular comedy club nights for a laugh with your lager.

Friends enjoying a beer tasting experience at Bay RoadBrewing, Gosford. — The tasting experience at Bay Road Brewing. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 89 Donnison St, Gosford

8. The Savoy, Long Jetty

An abandoned 1950s theatre was given a new lease on life in 2018 when it was turned into a multi-purpose bar and restaurant. The chic bar serves up craft beers, cocktails on tap and a wine list focusing on natural drops.

Two cocktails at The Savoy in Long Jetty — Find a range of cocktails on tap. (Image: Nikki To/ Destination NSW)

While the food menu features casual bites such as pizza and share plates. There is a film screening in the cinema every Thursday night and come weekends a dancefloor comes to life thanks to DJs playing old-school and party tunes.

Interior of The Savoy in Long Jetty — The multi-purpose bar and restaurant serves up good times alongside casual bites and share plates. (Image: Nikki To/ Destination NSW)

Address: 2/391 The Entrance Road, Long Jetty

9. The Boathouse, Patonga

Hidden away in the seaside village of Patonga, The Boathouse calls for long, lazy lunches in the sunshine. True to The Boathouse Group’s style, the venue oozes a chic nautical theme.

Couple enjoy an Aperol Spritz and share plates at The Boathouse Patonga — The Boathouse in Patonga is all about lazy lunches in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

Order a Boathouse Bloody Mary, a Patonga Margarita or a Loveboat (a refreshing blend of vodka, passionfruit liqueur, mint, lime and soda) and nab a seat in the alfresco courtyard under the shady Norfolk pines stringed with festoon lighting. Live music adds to the chilled ambience on weekends.

Couple enjoying food and drink at The Boathouse HotelPatonga, Patonga. — The views just can’t be beaten. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 6 – 8 Patonga Drive, Patonga

10. The Box On The Water, Ettalong

The Ettalong Beach foreshore offers punters many things: sprawling views across Broken Bay, ample opportunities for dog-spotting, and a pearler seat for sundowners – provided you’re in the right spot, and The Box On The Water definitely falls into that category. Floor-to-ceiling windows grant panoramic water views to Box Head and over to Sydney’s Northern Beaches.

Food and drinks at The BOX on the Water restaurant and bar,Ettalong Beach. — Come for drinks or an upscale meal at the bar’s adjoining restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Beach Kiosk offers casual dining, drinks and snacks, while the adjoining restaurant serves upscale Australian fare. The BOX bar is for drinks only and they can be enjoyed anywhere within its licensed area, including along the seawall. Grab one of the five spritzes or signature G&T and nab an alfresco seat to soak up a picture-perfect sunset.

The Box On The Water sits alongside Ettalong Beach.

Address: Ettalong Beach Waterfront Reserve

11. Mumbo Jumbo’s, Terrigal

Caribbean-themed Mumbo Jumbo’s is more than just your classic rooftop bar. Founded by four local childhood friends, the space in Terrigal oozes chilled island vibes with views over the beach. Reggae rhythms, colourful quirky interiors and an aromatic Jamaican-flavoured food and drinks menu transport guests to the Caribbean. Espresso martinis are served on tap, alongside tropical cocktails and all classic wines and beers.

A couple of guys enjoying the views from the rooftop of Mumbo Jumbos in Terrigal — Soak up views of Terrigal Beach from the rooftop.

Wherever possible, recycled materials have been used in the fit-out: tables are made from old timber fencing and the bar is made from upcycled wood, adding to the chilled-out beachside vibe. The weekly calendar is pumping with trivia on Tuesdays, live music on Wednesdays and DJs over the weekend.

Mumbo Jumbos Terrigal interior Image Destination NSW — The interiors at Mumbo Jumbos deliver Caribbean vibes. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 92 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

12. Pocket Bar, Terrigal

Situated a stone’s throw from Terrigal Beach, Pocket Bar serves as the Central Coast’s sister venue to Sydney’s Stitch Bar. Inside, they combine modern mixology techniques with classic cocktail recipes – alongside fun snacks, of course. The dimly lit space is lined with big couches and tables, exposed brick walls, a colourful painted mural and plants hanging overhead.

The bartender at Pocket Bar strains a Daiquiri for a customer — Pocket Bar is the sister venue to Sydney’s Stitch Bar.

Like its city counterparts, the cocktails are the big-ticket items at Pocket Bar. Try the Penicillin made with Dewars 12-year scotch whisky or dial it back with a wine or beer from the ever-expanding list paired with a tapas plate and watch the locals pass by.

Address: 1/74 Terrigal Esplanade, Terrigal

13. Avoca Beach House Restaurant & Bar, Avoca

A session at the Avoca Beach House feels quintessentially Australian. The space makes the most of its prime position with panoramic glass walls that face Avoca Beach. And, like any self-respecting beachside restaurant, it offers a hefty seafood menu featuring freshly shucked oysters and fried fish tacos. Barside, spritzes and sparkling wines go nicely with the view. So next time you’re in town, do as the locals do and partake in a Beach House session.

Avoca Surfhouse has front-row beach views. — Avoca Beach House has front-row beach views.

Address: 3/85 Avoca Dr, Avoca Beach

14. Margarita Daze, Umina

If it’s Hampton’s ambience you seek, the beachy whites and seaside greens of Margarita Daze will more than deliver. This Ocean Beach bar and restaurant has sandy shores and an endless waterfront right at its doorstep.

Friends enjoying food and drinks at Margarita Daze, UminaBeach. — The coastal vibes are in high supply at Margarita Daze in Umina. (Image: Destination NSW)

The Daze Margarita is one of the signature cocktails, with Jose Cuervo, triple sec, fresh lime and sugar, shaken and dumped on the rocks. The Salted Caramel Espresso Martini features salted caramel vodka, Kahlua, espresso coffee and caramel syrup shaken then strained into a caramel-rimmed martini glass – it will put hairs on your chest.

Dishes available on the menu at Margarita Daze, Umina Beach. — Round out the experience with a standout meal at the restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Address: 345 Trafalgar Ave, Umina

15. Rhonda’s, Terrigal

Yes, they nail their wood-fired pizzas and shine by way of classic Italian fare, but Rhonda’s also provides a great spot for a cocktail. Located a short walk from the beach, this funky little gem is perfect for afternoon drinks and balmy nights out.

Bartender at Rhonda's in Terrigal making the Burn Baby cocktail — With superb cocktails, great food and a rooftop bar, Rhonda’s is easily one of the best bars in Terrigal.

As the sun makes its way toward the horizon, feel the sea breeze and sip on a house-made Limoncello or Aperol Spritz from the upstairs balcony. It also overlooks the popular Terrigal Beach House for ample people-watching opportunities. On Saturdays, pizza is available by the slice upstairs – the perfect salve after a few sundowners.

Rhondas — Feel the sea breeze and sip on a house-made Limoncello or Aperol Spritz at Rhonda’s.

Address: 3/5 Kurrawyba Ave, Terrigal

16. Frankie’s Rooftop, Woy Woy

It’s clear that Coasties are partial to a good rooftop tipple, and few bars or pubs shine as bright as Frankie’s . Head upstairs at The Bayview Hotel – a long-standing pub that underwent an unrecognisable transformation a few years back – for views of sparkling Brisbane Water.

There is a huge selection of whiskey to choose from, dangerously placed alongside a swathe of gins and rums and creative cocktails. Thursdays are for share plates and $14 margs and during happy hour on Fridays you can choose from $10 cocktails.

Food and wine at Frankie's Rooftop Bar — Indulge in a rooftop tipple and feed at Frankie’s. (Frankie’s Rooftop Bar)

Address: 2 The Boulevard, Woy Woy

17. Bar Toto, Ettalong

Bar Toto makes a case for elegance on the Central Coast. Since its establishment in 2013, it has brought back the old-world charm of wining and dining with an ode to the best of chic Europe.

Bartender pours a martini at Bar Toto's in Ettalong — Bar Toto’s well-crafted cocktail list will transport you straight to the Mediterranean.

Australia’s top 100 cocktail craftsman Peter Clarke has created a list that will transport you straight to the Mediterranean – the Italian classics such as negronis, aperols and garabaldis do it best. The coffee cocktails also shine and provide a kick for those who need it. For food, international pizza competition medallist Jerry Altavilla mans the ovens. Take a seat on a leather sofa and watch the magic unfold before you.

Address: 83/189 Ocean View Road, Ettalong

18. Six String Brewing Co. Erina

Six String Brewing began as a hobby developed from a genuine love of good beer. And like any good side hustle, it evolved into the first home-grown craft brewery and tasting room on the Central Coast.

Friends enjoying beer and arcade games at the Six StringBrewing Company brewery in Erina. — Six String Brewing Co. is a guaranteed good time. (Image: Destination NSW)

Nowadays, the taproom is a popular watering hole that showcases the award-winning brews produced on-site. Lovers and novices can come in and learn about the process – touching, smelling and tasting the ingredients along the way. There are more than 12 taps in rotation at any given time at the bar; are all preservative-free, unpasteurised and unfiltered.

Six String Brewing co — Six String Brewing Co. is the first home-grown craft brewery and tasting room on the Central Coast.

Come for a beer and a bite (burgers, tacos, charcuterie boards and the like) or book a tour of the brewery (run every Saturday morning) where you can learn the craft of brewing. A new taproom is currently under construction just down the road, with an opening date soon to be announced. Watch this space.

Address: 4/330 The Entrance Road, Erina

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.

Sip in style: 18 must-visit bars on the Central Coast