The Union
pubfunlocal feellocal musicgreat beer selection
A Newtown craft beer institution with 22 taps rotating through 420+ brews annually, plus pool tables and live music that draws beer nerds and locals alike.
4.3
(1,459 reviews)$$GoogleHappy Hour Deals
Best For
PubLive MusicOutdoor SeatingTakes ReservationsBar
576 King Street, Newtown 2042
View on Google MapsOpening Hours
MondayToday10am – 11pm
Tuesday10am – 11pm
Wednesday10am – 11pm
Thursday10am – 11pm
Friday10am – 1am
Saturday10am – 1am
Sunday10am – 10pm
The Vibe
- Front bar energy: Large bench seats fill with groups settling in for the night, while pool tables draw queues of scraggy-bearded Newtownians waiting their turn. The plasma screens pull football fans for A League and AFL away games and local bands pack the space with their friends and followers every other weekend.
- Back bar contrast: The light-filled rear section feels distinctly different - sophisticated cocktail lounges and heated courtyards create a more relaxed dining atmosphere. Families fill the bistro tables, while intimate lounge areas work for dinner dates or business lunches.
- Beer-focused but welcoming: Despite the impressive 22-tap setup and constant rotation of craft brews, this doesn't feel like an intimidating beer pub. The crowd spans beer nerds comparing tasting paddles to casual locals grabbing a schooner after work.
What People Love
- The tap selection: Those 22 taps rotate through over 420 different brews each year, with regular tap takeovers by cult producers like Mountain Culture. The annual Dark Nights series - one night dedicated to stouts, porters and brown ales - is a highlight in Sydney's craft beer calendar.
- Beyond beer: Around 24 gins (mainly Australian distillers) and 30 whisky options provide solid alternatives. Tasting paddles let you sample the rotating selection without committing to a full schooner.
- Big Arties food: The in-house kitchen draws influence from Chicago and New York diners, serving Australian and American-themed sandwiches and burgers alongside fresh salads and vegetarian options. The meat-heavy menu keeps evolving based on regular feedback.
The Neighbourhood
- South King Street position: Sits on the southern stretch of King Street where Newtown's main strip starts to thin out, away from the heavier foot traffic closer to the station. The location gives it more of a local neighbourhood feel than the tourist-heavy venues further north.
- Community anchor: Functions as a genuine local - the kind of place where regulars have their preferred stools and newcomers get beer recommendations from knowledgeable staff. The mix of families in the back bistro and pool players up front reflects Newtown's blend of young professionals and long-term residents.
- Easy access: The bottleshop operates until midnight Wednesday to Saturday, making it a handy stop for takeaway beers on the way to other King Street venues or BYO restaurants in the area.
Nearby in Newtown
Ratings from Google