Inside the Sydney bar named one of the best in the world – and it’s hidden in an old garage

A tiny rustic-chic bar tucked away in a cozy laneway in a popular Australian city has been named one of the best bars in the world.

Cantina OK! – described by diners as a ‘great hole-in-the-wall gem’ in Sydney’s CBD – has been ranked 96th in the top 100 bars around the globe.

The micro bar with a roller door and no seats was recognised in the World’s 50 Best Bars 51–100 longlist of 2024, as voted by a panel of nearly 700 experts, including renowned bartenders, drink writers, cocktail specialists and critics.

This is the second time the humble drinking spot has been named among the world’s best bars, having been ranked 41st globally in 2022.

‘We are so excited to once again be represented on a global list populated with so many amazing bars,’ Cantina OK! venue manager Jordan Grocock tells FEMAIL. 

‘The whole team is hungry to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to deliver world-class hospitality in a tiny corner garage.’

Nestled within a converted garage on Council Place behind Clarence Street, the standing-room-only bar has a 20-person capacity and boasts a cocktail menu of signature drinks – each served with hand-shaved ice.

Known for its famous margaritas, the shelves are stocked with a collection of rare agave spirits that were brought back from Mexico after the team’s recent trip.

Cantina OK! in Sydney’s CBD has been named one of the best bars in the world 

The bar boasts a cocktail menu of signature drinks - each served with hand-shaved ice

The shelves are stocked with a collection of rare agave spirits from Mexico

Known for its famous margaritas, the shelves are stocked with a collection of rare agave spirits that were brought back from Mexico after the team’s recent trip

Despite its tiny space, the bar is constantly buzzing every week.

And it’s not surprising why bargoers have given this place a near-perfect rating of 4.8 stars out of 5.

‘Everything about this place is just perfect. A great little hole-in-the-wall bar with a small but incredibly creative tequila, mezcal based menu. Loved every drink that we ordered,’ one said. 

‘Cantina OK! is a hidden gem in Sydney, offering a vibrant and unique bar experience. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming. The bartenders are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate,’ another raved.

‘The bar itself is tiny, which adds to the charm and exclusivity of the place. Despite its size, Cantina OK! has a big personality and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. Whether you’re a tequila aficionado or just looking to try something new, it’s a must-visit destination in Sydney’s bar scene.’

Nestled within a converted garage, the standing-room-only bar has a 20-person capacity

Nestled within a converted garage, the standing-room-only bar has a 20-person capacity

Many have described the joint as one of 'Sydney's best bars' with a 'super cool vibe'

Despite its tiny space, the bar is constantly buzzing every week

Many have described the joint as one of ‘Sydney’s best bars’ with a ‘super cool vibe’

The Cantina OK! team celebrating the huge win after being named in the top 100

The Cantina OK! team celebrating the huge win after being named in the top 100

Many have described the joint as one of ‘Sydney’s best bars’ with a ‘super cool vibe’, making it the ‘perfect spot’ for a night out with friends or a casual drink after work.

‘It’s a very cute and hidden bar that you may miss when you walk by but worth the visit. The drinks were amazing. It’s very tiny and can be a bit packed but totally worth the experience,’ one shared. 

Another added: ‘I can easily say that it’s the best bar I have been to.’

Melbourne cocktail bar Above Board is the second Aussie establishment to be featured in the world’s top bars, securing the 100th spot.



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