Nestled away from the main streets of Newtown, this neighbourhood brewery is abuzz with beer aficionados swapping notes in a large warehouse space. Take a brewery tour to learn more about the beverages or enjoy a tasting at the bar.

Go for the drinks and house-party atmosphere, and stay for the iconic burgers and fries upstairs. At Mary’s, craft beer, small-batch wines and good tunes are the order of the day (and well into the night).

It’s all in the can at this much-loved bar and eatery – from cocktails to preserved fish. A taste of European fare on Australia Street, Newtown, Continental Deli Bar and Bistro transitions from a daytime lunch hub to buzzing watering hole and restaurant by night.

Wandering past this narrow shopfront of a Friday evening, you might easily mistake the goings on inside for a private dinner party. But in this multifaceted wine-shop- turned-bar, guest can enjoy tasting wines in a cosy space – and, of course, take their favourites home by the bottle.

Of a sunny afternoon, The Courty’s beer garden is the place to soak in those rays with a cold drink in hand – particularly beloved by apartment-dwelling inner westies who hanker for the space of a backyard. Expect pub grub, good brews and a happily mixed crowd.

Forever bustling, Newtown institution Gurdy’s is a go-to for refreshing cocktails – followed by dishes from the veggie-oriented dinner menu. Never fear: if you miss dinner, a late-night grazing selection (available from 10pm onwards) features savoury doughnuts worth staying up for.

As its name suggests, Corridor is a petite bar, albeit with immense character, wedged between the stores of King Street. Clever cocktails take the cake here. Try the ‘Nikki Webster’, a blend of gin, strawberry-and-rose cordial, soda and orange blossom water, and order a Corridor Board to share.

Concealed behind the doors of a former butcher’s shop, Earl’s Duke Joint feels like a clandestine bar you’d find during prohibition times. Beyond the facade, mood lighting, cosy ambiance and well-made cocktails are revealed.

Of an afternoon, pull up a seat at Bloodwood’s front bar for friendly table service with a side of people watching. Amber wines, cleverly concocted cocktails and an extensive selection of non-alcoholic beverages are best enjoyed alongside a serve of the house-made pecan pate.

Casual, but thoughtful, this Newtown drinking spot is about as laid-back as city fringe bars come. And yet, its wine list is the result of serious selections. With its pared-back, comfortable décor and approachable service, She Loves you oozes date-night vibes.