When Bar Conte opened in Surry Hills in 2021 it was feted as the world’s first fully dedicated negroni bar. And while lovers of the Italian aperitivo were big fans of the 40+ negroni menu they were just as impressed with the Italian snacks and share plates, which turned the intimate bar into a popular dining destination. 

In 2025, Bar Conte is expanding with a sister venue. This time business and life partners behind Bar Conte, Raffaelle Lombardi and Victoria Hampshire, will be opening a sister venue in Sydney’s CBD.  This week Conte Sydney will open its doors to a 130-seat, multi-level space on Clarence Street. 

So what’s different? It’s much bigger than Bar Conte. Conte Sydney’s 9-metre-high ceiling and floor to ceiling glass windows are paired with Italian-inspired finishes, like wallpapers from Milanese brand Fornsetti, richly toned curtains and Italian leather. It’ll also allow guests to choose where to drink or dine. Those dining in can sit in the restaurant area. Small groups should opt for the bar pods. Guests popping in for a drink can sit at the bar in the mezzanine cocktail lounge.

While the space may feel different to Bar Conte, one thing remains the same: the exceptional negroni menu. There’ll be an extensive 40+ choice negroni list as well as an impressively large collection of Italian Vermouth, Amari and Italian Gin. 

The a la carte menu is also sure to impress foodies. Decadent dishes such as Gambero Rosso tartare, Lobster risotto, Duck breast and Merluzzo will feature on the menu for diners with an appetite. Those looking for something light will delight in delectable Italian bar snacks that the OG venue, Bar Conte, has become loved for.

Conte Sydney will open on April 2. 

Conte Sydney
151 Clarence Street, Sydney
Monday – Wednesday 11 am – midnight
Thursday – Saturday 11 am – 1.00 am
Sunday – Closed
@conte_sydney

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