Paddington 101 – Given its more upmarket status, you might not expect to find too many pubs in Paddington. And, while that is somewhat true, you can still find a number of watering holes that tick off the criteria that makes a good pub.
Admittedly, the vast majority of Paddington pubs are a little more lavish than those you’ll find in the likes of Newtown, for example, but make no mistake, they still offer a great place to grab a drink and a bite to eat with friends and family.
But which of the Paddington pubs should you put at the top of your must-visit list? Or have you found yourself in Paddington and looking to Google “best pub near me”?. Allow us to do the work for you and round-up our five favourite pubs in Paddington.
If you want to venture further afield, then be sure to check out our round-up of the best pubs in Sydney.
In this Paddington pubs story…
Looking for some more of the best pubs in Sydney?
The Unicorn Hotel
106 Oxford Street, Paddington, 2021
Ok, so to backtrack a little on what we said in the opening few paragraphs, The Unicorn Hotel is not only one of the most traditional pubs in Paddington, but in the whole of Sydney. It was taken over by the Mary’s group a few years ago and they decided to keep it as old-school a pub as possible.
To this, we mean you’ll find a classic selection of Australian beers on tap, plus a few from nearby Young Henry’s brewery, along with classic pub food done right: steaks, burgers (including Mary’s burgers) and schnittys.
The Unicorn is a very simple pub in the nicest way possible, making it an absolute must-visit whenever you find yourself in Paddington.
Dog friend too.
The London Hotel
85 Underwood Street, Cnr of William Street, Paddington, 2021
The London has occupied its corner spot just back from Oxford Street since 1875 and has been a favourite of locals and visitors alike ever since. Everything The London pub in Paddington does is straightforward, from the drinks selection to the food menu, to the decor inside.
The beer selection isn’t the largest ever, but you’re sure to find something you like thanks to a range of local and imported brews, including the likes of Guinness. As for food, it’s classic pub grub, think pizzas, burgers, steaks and a few salads. A “semi-outdoors” courtyard is a great spot to find yourself in the summer too but unfortunately, The London is currently not dog-friendly, although it fully supports the campaign to legalise dogs in all pubs in Australia.
The Village Inn
9-11 Glenmore Road, Paddington, 2021
The Village Inn was the first pub in Paddington Village to open its doors to customers, way back in 1890. Much of that old-world charm has been retained today, with Chesterfield leather sofas, dark wooden beams and a rustic-style bar attracting much of your attention.
There’s plenty of reason to visit too, whether it be for the delicious food being served from the kitchen or to snap up a table on the balcony in summer. It’s a great Paddington pub to watch live sport too, with TVs on both levels, and it even makes a perfect pitstop for anyone attending the Sydney Cricket Ground for an event.
The Light Brigade
Corner of Oxford Street & Jersey Road, Woollahra, 2025
The Light Brigade is more than just a pub in Paddington, it’s somewhere to go for a proper night out or weekend drinks with friends. Set over multiple levels, you’ll find the main bar on the ground level, a bistro on level 1, a cocktail bar on level 2 and a seriously impressive rooftop terrace at the top. It really is one of the best pubs in Paddington.
True pub-goers and beer drinkers will likely congregate in the ground level bar, as it dishes up classic pub food, accompanied by an electric range of beers and drinks. It’s also here where you’ll find big screen TVs to watch live sport on and some TAB facilities are available for those who like a flutter.
Lord Dudley
236 Jersey Road, Paddington, 2021
The Lord Dudley Hotel pays great homage to old English-style pubs and offers customers a huge selection of beers to choose from, to be enjoyed alongside a vast selection of pub food. The Lord Dudley is an incredibly welcoming pub in Paddington and even has a few open fires to sit by when the temperature drops.
There are regular events and discount meals every day during the week and there’s even a good chance you’ll find some live music when you pop in too.