Tucked away in the secretive laneways of Kent Street, behind what appears to be an ordinary banh-mi cart, lies Sydney’s most intriguing new cocktail destination—Vinabar.
This Vietnamese-inspired micro-bar captures the imagination with its unique fusion of Southeast Asian charm, cutting-edge mixology, and an intimate setting that’s full of surprises.
A Hidden Gem in the Heart of the City
Occupying a space no larger than two parking spots, Vinabar is proof that big things come in small packages. Step inside, and you’re greeted by an interior that masterfully blends tradition with contemporary elegance. Sixty silk lanterns from Hoi An dangle from the ceiling, casting a warm, inviting glow over the dark wooden joists. Beneath them, sleek black marble benchtops offer a polished contrast, while the highlight of the venue design—a scaled replica of Da Nang’s famous Golden Hand Bridge—serves as the shelving for the bar. The intricate, custom-made door disguised as a banh-mi cart alone took six weeks and over 60 hours to perfect, reflecting the level of craftsmanship and love poured into every inch of this space.
Small Space, Big Ambitions
Vinabar’s ethos of “small space, big dreams” is embodied not only in its design but in its drinks menu, curated by Tony Yang, the Creative Lead and Venue Manager. A rising star in Sydney’s bar scene, Tony has drawn deeply from his Vietnamese heritage and the bold, vibrant flavours of Southeast Asia to create cocktails that are as inventive as they are nostalgic.
Highlights from the cocktail menu include the playful Opens With Sesame, a dirty martini reimagined with a house-made pandan sesame oil twist.
A Bite of Vietnam in Every Sip and Snack
Drinks aside, Vinabar also nods to its Vietnamese roots with the addition of the Baby Banh Mi, a bite-sized version of the traditional pork roll. Perfect for the late-night crowd, it’s served with spicy fresh chilli, fragrant coriander, and accompanied by a shot of G7 Vietnamese coffee for just $12. It’s a snack that not only satisfies but also pays homage to street food culture in Vietnam.
Cocktails, Community, and Late-Night Charm
Vinabar’s compact, cosy setup fosters a sense of connection between patrons, ensuring that strangers leave as friends by the end of the night. Open until 2am from Tuesday through Sunday, it’s the perfect spot for winding down after work, enjoying a laid-back date night, or simply discovering unique flavours in the heart of the CBD.
With its attention to detail, innovative menu, and welcoming atmosphere, Vinabar doesn’t just stand out—it redefines what a micro-bar can be. Whether you’re after inventive cocktails, a late-night snack, or a warm neighbourhood vibe that feels miles away from the nearby city chaos, Vinabar has you covered.
Visit Vinabar
- Trading Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 5pm – 2am
- Address: Shop 1, 332 Kent Street, Sydney NSW 2000
- Don’t miss out on one of Sydney’s most exciting new bar concepts. Vinabar is more than just a place to drink—it’s an experience. Grab your friends, follow the lantern light, and step through that unassuming steel door into something extraordinary.
For those seeking a slice of Vietnam in the heart of Sydney, Vinabar is calling.
