The Soda Factory

Best For

Opening Hours

The Vibe

• The entrance: Pull the handle on a fake Coke machine inside Bobby's Boss Dogs hot dog shop to access this hidden speakeasy - Sydney's first bar concealed behind a fully functioning business.
• The space: A dimly lit industrial expanse with stripped-back plaster walls, intricate murals and neon signs, lined with inviting booths and comfortable mid-century sofas. The design channels authentic American diner vibes with a factory theme running throughout.
• The energy: Sound levels allow for both dancing and conversation, with live bands and international DJs performing on the dedicated stage. On weeknights smaller acoustic acts and local DJs spin '50s rock 'n' roll, while the dance floor comes alive after dark on weekends. The crowd ranges from groups catching up over cocktails to those ready to dance the night away.

What People Love

• The cocktails: Boozy root beer floats ($14) and share siphons ($30-35) that serve five or six sparkling cocktails to groups, plus Instagram-worthy presentation. The Chocolate Passionfruit Martini ($17) delivers rich liquor with just a hint of sweetness.
• Tuesday special: $1 hot dogs draw regular crowds, with the Johnny Drama (beef sausage topped with bacon, sour cream, avocado and tomato salsa) available at Bobby's for $9 other nights.
• The food: American diner classics including juicy burgers, gourmet hot dogs, fried chicken and signature mac 'n' cheese. The Fat Bubbas fried chicken bucket with waffle fries gets repeat orders, while Wednesday's $5 menu features carb-laden snacks inspired by Tarantino films.
• Late-night licence: The venue trades late with live music performances, making it a popular spot to either start or finish a night out.

The Neighbourhood

• Location: Tucked away on Wentworth Avenue in the old home of Tone nightclub, The Soda Factory sits on one of Surry Hills' main nightlife strips between Crown Street and Oxford Street.
• The street: Wentworth Avenue runs parallel to the main Crown Street dining precinct, positioning the venue within walking distance of the area's restaurant and bar cluster while maintaining its hidden speakeasy appeal.
• Transport: The venue's central Surry Hills location puts it within walking distance of Central Station and the Museum light rail stop, making it accessible from across Sydney's transport network.
• The concept: As Sydney's first bar hidden behind a fully functioning business, it brings a New York City speakeasy concept to the neighbourhood, drawing comparisons to East Village establishments like PDT behind Crif Dogs.

Nearby in Surry Hills

Ratings from Google

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