About The Burdekin Main Bar
The Burdekin Main Bar is a lively, ground-floor club space at 2-4 Oxford Street in Darlinghurst, Sydney. It is the largest level of the multi-story Burdekin Hotel complex and has a capacity of about 255 people (burdekin.com.au ). The venue is known for its high ceilings, golden-framed mirrors and leather-covered lounges, giving it an intimate yet grand club atmosphere (www.tagvenue.com ). Its décor combines historic elegance with modern flair: striking pillars painted by Aussie muralist Le Grizz add bold splashes of art, while a large 6m² LED screen and laser lighting system create a high-energy ambience (burdekin.com.au ) (www.tagvenue.com ). The interior features a long central bar running the length of the room and a professional DJ booth at one end, making it ideal for dance nights and DJ sets (www.tagvenue.com ) (burdekin.com.au ).
The building itself has deep roots in Sydney history. A hotel has stood on this corner of Oxford and Liverpool Streets since the 1840s (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ). The current Art Deco–style pub was rebuilt in 1911 (then called Flanagan’s Hotel) with ornate marble and polished fittings, and renamed the Burdekin Hotel in the 1930s in honor of early Sydney alderman Thomas Burdekin (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ) (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ). Today the Main Bar blends that heritage charm (Federation hotel design with a Deco façade) with cutting-edge sound and lighting. Frequent renovations—including an updated rooftop garden added in the 21st century—have kept the space modern while respecting its 100+ year tradition (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ) (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ). The venue prides itself on being part of Darlinghurst’s eclectic nightlife scene, offering 18+ entertainment and focusing on music, parties and community events that reflect the area’s creative, queer-friendly culture (www.creativespaces.net.au ) (burdekin.com.au ).
Events and Programming
The Burdekin Main Bar hosts a very diverse calendar of events year-round. On any given weekend you might find a club night or dance party, often with DJs spinning house, EDM or specialty dance music on the LED-backed booth. The powerful Void sound system and booming subwoofers (part of the professional DJ setup) keep the music pumping, and lasers and lighting effects transform the space into a club atmosphere (burdekin.com.au ) (www.tagvenue.com ). Local promoters regularly book themed parties, genre nights and indie dance events here.
The venue also supports live music and alternative subculture scenes. The next-door Mini Bar on level 1 (capacity ~140) is mostly dedicated to live concerts and metal/rock gigs, but some band and tribute-artist shows do spill into the Main Bar when DJs are featured. In recent years the Main Bar has hosted plenty of rock and metal nights – for example, 2023 saw Sydney bands like Deadnerve, Penetrated and VEX playing high-energy sets there (sydneymusic.net ) (sydneymusic.net ). It also proudly stages local alternative club nights (such as an “AM//PM Emo Night”) (sydneymusic.net ) (sydneymusic.net ) and hyperpop or electronic showcases (e.g. the bubblegum-pop night BUBBLEGUM #3 (sydneymusic.net )). In short, Midnight through early morning on weekends the Main Bar is essentially a nightclub and party space.
Weekly events: The Burdekin runs several recurring weekly shows. Most notably, Saturdays (1–3pm) there’s the famous bottomless drag brunch “Spritz or Swallow” on the rooftop level (with drag hostess Mynx Moscato and rotating celebrity queens like Eureka O’Hara) (burdekin.com.au ); on Tuesdays from 5:30pm the rooftop runs “No Strings Attached” acoustic sessions (burdekin.com.au ). Meanwhile inside the Main Bar you’ll find late-night dance parties and special DJ nights on Thursday through Saturday.Special performances: Over the past few years the Burdekin has attracted well-known performers from Sydney’s drag and indie music communities. Big-name drag stars (X) like Eureka O’Hara, Yuri Guaii and Hannah Conda have starred in its brunch shows (burdekin.com.au ). Local bands and touring acts across rock, punk and electronic genres play here regularly. During 2020–2025 it’s been common to see everything from hardcore parties (like “Justice for the Damned” tour) to techno sets or indie gigs. Dates and artists are advertised via social media and local listings (the venue’s website and event partners often use ticketing platforms, though names like Oztix are not publicly promoted).Ticket prices: Most club nights and weekly events are low-cost or free entry (for instance, entry to those Tuesday acoustic sets is free (burdekin.com.au )). Small local gigs often charge a modest cover (around $10–$20). Larger acts or special events can range higher; for example, the rooftop drag brunch packages are $79–$99 per person (burdekin.com.au ). Overall, patrons can expect very affordable pricing for typical shows (often under $20 at the door) with occasional premium-priced experiences (brunch/drinks packages).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for shows at The Burdekin Main Bar can usually be purchased online via the venue’s official site or partner ticketing agencies. The venue itself does not have a retail box office selling tickets in person, so most patrons buy through online outlets (promoters often use national ticket vendors). For popular concerts or themed parties, tickets typically go on sale a few weeks in advance, so it’s wise to look out for announcements or join The Burdekin’s mailing list for alerts.
For smaller events and club nights, tickets might simply be sold at the door on the night (if not sold out in advance). It’s common to see a simple cash or QR-code cover charge at the entrance for these. Whenever possible, pre-purchasing is recommended for sold-out shows or drag brunches (which require booking the brunch package). Pricing varies by event: general admission passes or door covers are often in the $10–$20 range, while special packages (like the $79–$99 brunch) are sold as fixed-price packages online (burdekin.com.au ). Keep an eye on social channels and listings; joining venues or promoter mailing lists is the best strategy to score tickets early for popular nights.
Seating and Layout
The Burdekin Main Bar is largely an open-floor space with flexible seating arrangements. By day and for certain events staff may set up high-top tables and bar stools around the edges, but for most music and club nights the tables are cleared away to reveal a large dancefloor. The bar stretches along one side of the room and behind it runs a service area, while the DJ booth sits opposite. Leather couches and bench seating line the walls near the pillars, offering casual booth-style seating for drinks (www.tagvenue.com ).
Because the main room is one large rectangle, sightlines are generally very good and no seats have a completely obstructed view. The DJ booth and big LED screen are visible from most points. For a lively experience, standing by the dancefloor near the DJ is ideal; if you prefer a more relaxed view, the high seats or couches along the side walls provide a good angle. Avoid standing directly behind the large speakers if you have sensitive ears, as the sound is loudest there. With about 255 capacity standing (or up to ~200 if seating is arranged) (burdekin.com.au ), the venue never feels overcrowded – there is room to dance and socialize comfortably.
Some customers wonder about VIP or reserved areas. The Main Bar has a general admission layout, and there are no private boxes in this room. All seating is on a first-come basis during events. Acoustic and noise-wise, the high vaulted ceiling adds reverb (this gives a “big sound” for dance music, but it also means vocals can echo slightly). In practice, the club-grade Void sound system compensates and provides clear bass and crisp highs, so attendees usually note the audio quality as excellent.
Accessibility: The ground-floor Main Bar is fully wheelchair accessible (www.creativespaces.net.au ). The entrance from Oxford Street has a small ramp, and the entire main room is step-free, making it easy for patrons using mobility aids to enter and move around (www.creativespaces.net.au ). There are accessible restroom facilities in the basement. Staff can provide assistance if needed. A note that all events here are 18+ only (see Venue Policies below) – no minors are allowed.
Getting There and Parking
The Burdekin is located at the eastern end of Oxford Street (corner of Oxford and Liverpool Streets) in Darlinghurst. It’s well-served by public transit and also reachable by car or taxi.
By bus: Several city buses run along Oxford Street and stop near the venue. Frequent routes include the 324, 333, 340, 391/392 and others linking Bondi, the city, and inner suburbs (moovitapp.com ). The nearest stops are “Darlinghurst Rd @ Oxford St” or “Oxford St @ Crown St”, which are a one-minute walk away. Customers often take the 333 or 324 buses from the city (Town Hall) straight through to Oxford Street, alighting just a block or two from the door (moovitapp.com ).By train: Sydney’s heavy rail doesn’t run directly through Darlinghurst, but the closest station is Museum on the T2/T3/T8/T9 lines (around 900m or 12 minutes’ walk north of Oxford St (moovitapp.com )). Town Hall or St James stations (on multiple lines) require a longer transfer to a bus. Many people arriving from elsewhere in Sydney take a train to the city (Town Hall or Wynyard) and then hop on one of the Oxford Street buses to get here.By rideshare/taxi: Taxis and Uber/Lyft can drop off and pick up on Oxford Street or nearby Liverpool Street. The official address “2-4 Oxford Street” will get you to the corner entrance. Note that evening traffic on Oxford Street can be slow, and rideshares may have to double-park briefly if there’s no dedicated taxi zone, so allow a few extra minutes. For departures after late shows, there is usually street hail or app pickup available along Oxford St.Parking: Street parking in Darlinghurst is very limited. There are a few metered spots on nearby side streets (Sydney City parking rates, often 2- or 3-hour maximum). For all-day parking, nearby options include:
Paid car parks at Kings Cross (about 5–10 minute walk away), which charge per hour. Exit rates can be around $5–$10 per hour in that area.
As one convenient choice, Kirketon Hotel (a block east on Darlinghurst Road) advertises a public parking garage at 33 Bayswater Road (Potts Point) roughly 400m away, charging about $39/day for 24-hour secure parking (www.kirketon.com.au ). This is privately managed but open to Burdekin visitors.
Alternatively, street parking on Liverpool Street or Crown Street can sometimes be found a few blocks away. Always check signage for any time limits or residential permit zones.
Walking: If you’re staying nearby (for example, at a hotel on or near Oxford/Darlinghurst Roads), the Burdekin is very walkable. It’s only one block from Paddington to Kings Cross, and a short stroll from the Darlinghurst Rd dining strip.
Inside the Venue
When you enter The Burdekin Main Bar, expect a casual nightclub experience. Security staff and doormen will check IDs at the door (proof of age is mandatory – 18+ only) and may perform a light bag or pat-down check for safety. There is no cloakroom, so bring only what you need. Smoking is not allowed inside; there is a designated sheltered smoking room near the back entrance to the basement area for those who need it (www.creativespaces.net.au ).
The atmosphere is active and social. On music nights the floor is mostly standing/dancing. The lighting is dim with colorful lasers, so people dress in smart casual clubwear (jeans, shirts, dresses) – nothing formal is required, just neat casual. Some attendees do wear fashionable nightlife outfits given Darlinghurst’s trendy scene, but no strict dress code is enforced. The crowd on a typical Saturday night is mixed – locals and visitors in their 20s and 30s enjoying a night out. Alcohol flows freely from the bar (beer, wine, spirits, and creative cocktails) and there's a retractable photo-booth in one corner for fun snaps (burdekin.com.au ).
Food and Drink: Drinks are served from the long bar on one side. The Burdekin offers a full range of beers on tap, bottled alcohol, and an extensive cocktail menu. The bar often runs specials – for instance, there are weekday happy-hour deals (Wed-Fri) from 4–6pm: $6 beer and wine, $10 cocktails like margaritas, plus $12 Aperol spritzes (burdekin.com.au ). As for food, the hotel kitchen serves pub-style fare. Patrons can order pizzas, burgers or share plates – notably the venue offers $10 “pizza pockets” and affordable snack items all day (mysydneydetour.com ). The menu caters to quick bites (great for pre- or post-show snacks) and heartier meals. Regulars mention the wood-fired pizzas and cheeseboards, so there are plenty of options to grab dinner or a midnight snack in-between sets.
Facilities: Restrooms (private and non-gendered) are located downstairs; attendants keep them clean. There are sinks, hand dryers and change tables. The main floor has air conditioning (important in summer). A coat rack is not generally available, so guests usually hang coats near their seats or carry them. There is bench seating along the walls for putting down belongings or briefly sitting. Free Wi-Fi is not advertised, but mobile reception is usually fine. Some parties provide photo or merchandise stands – if it’s a concert expect a spot near the stage area for T-shirts and CDs (especially on the Mini Bar level above).
The Burdekin group of venues is strictly 18+. Staff will refuse entry to anyone under 18, and they will also enforce responsible service of alcohol. Do note that the city’s old “lockout laws” have been lifted; the Main Bar itself stays open very late (until 4am Fri/Sat) (burdekin.com.au ). That means last call is around 3:30am and the dancefloor hums past midnight most nights. It’s wise to plan your ride-share or taxi accordingly, as train and bus services diminish after midnight.
Nearby Amenities
Darlinghurst is packed with dining and entertainment options within walking distance. Restaurants: On or around Oxford and Darlinghurst Roads you’ll find a mix of cafés, pubs and ethnic eateries. These include Greek tavernas (like Santorini on Crown), wood-fired pizza joints (Dimitri’s Pizzeria), Asian fusion and Thai restaurants, and classic pubs with pub grills. Many are open late and offer reasonably priced meals – for example, burger and pizza specials at some nearby pubs (Wed burgers, Thu pizzas) coordinate with the Burdekin’s happy hour schedule (burdekin.com.au ). If you’re looking for a quick bite before a show, the whole neighborhood has something within a few minutes’ walk (from $10 pizzas to late-night noodle bars). There are also coffee shops and bakeries that stay open during the day for those coming to early-acoustic nights.
Bars and nightlife: The Burdekin sits at the eastern gateway of Oxford Street’s vibrant club/drink scene. Within two blocks you have several well-known bars and pubs. For example, Love Tilly Devine (a nightclub) and The Beresford (a historic bar with beer garden) are a short stroll away. The Oxford Tavern, an older pub with live music, is two blocks west. Right across the road is a sister rooftop bar (communally called Burdekin Rooftop) for outdoor cocktails and city views. In short, pre- or post-show you can hop around the area to continue the night – there’s no shortage of places to grab another drink or dance some more in Darlinghurst.
Hotels: If you’re visiting from out of town, there are several hotels and guesthouses close by. The closest is probably the Kirketon Hotel (Oxford Street), which even offers parking as mentioned. Other nearby choices include the Holiday Inn Potts Point (just down Bayswater Road), as well as boutique inns on the fringe of Darlinghurst. These are walking distance, and overnight guests can safely stroll home after hours.
Other transit: Late-night buses do run after midnight along Oxford Street (e.g. the 396 or 310 NightRide to the city). Taxis can be found on nearby Liverpool or Crown Streets, and rideshare pickup is generally easy at any time.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Burdekin Main Bar stands out for blending historic charm with a cutting-edge party environment. Its architecture and design are notable – this is a 1911-era pub building redesigned by Irving & Rudder & Grout, exemplifying Federation hotel style with a 1930s Art Deco makeover (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ) (artdecoheritage.blogspot.com ). Inside, few clubs in Sydney have such distinctive décor: the high ceilings, golden mirrors and the colorful Le Grizz murals give the venue serious artistic character (burdekin.com.au ). Even repeatedly singing band logos can decorate one wall. The outdoor facade painted in rainbow stripes proudly signals the venue’s embrace of Sydney’s LGBTQ culture (www.creativespaces.net.au ).
Socially, the Burdekin has hosted many memorable events . It has become an integral part of Darlinghurst’s nightlife. For example, its rooftop drag brunch series (“Spritz or Swallow”) regularly features top drag performers (Eureka O’Hara, Yuri Guaii, Hannah Conda, etc.) (burdekin.com.au ), and its standing as a live-music venue has attracted both local talent and visiting acts. In 2023 the bustling Main Bar even showed up on screen – it was used as a location in a popular Stan Australia TV series, demonstrating just how emblematic of Sydney nightlife it is (www.creativespaces.net.au ). Locals frequently praise the Burdekin for feeling inclusive and welcoming; it’s consistently described as “queer-friendly” (www.creativespaces.net.au ) and a place where people from all walks of life can enjoy music and community together.
The sound and production quality is another highlight. Operated by a team of audio professionals, the club boasts top-tier DJ gear (Pioneer CDJ-3000s, DJM mixers) and a horn-loaded VOID sound system (burdekin.com.au ) (burdekin.com.au ). Artists and promoters love the venue’s lighting rig and stage tech, which can rival dedicated clubs. In short, it offers the best of both worlds – a heritage-style pub setting plus contemporary concert-level AV production. That combination has helped it earn a reputation (even a local blog called it “Sydney’s best rooftop bar” and a five-storey icon of entertainment (mysydneydetour.com )) and become a favorite spot for diverse crowds.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: Remember this venue is strictly 18+. Bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, passport or proof-of-age card) – it will be checked for every guest at the door. (burdekin.com.au )Dress code: There is no formal dress code, but smart-casual is best. Many visitors wear neat streetwear for a night out. Avoid workwear like flip-flops or sports jerseys if you can. Comfortable shoes are wise since you’ll likely stand or dance for hours.What to bring: Besides ID, bring a credit card and/or some cash for drinks and food. Wristband events may not have re-admittance, so plan restroom breaks accordingly. A coat or light jacket is useful for when you step outside, but inside the club locker space is limited (you’ll just hang coats on chairs or near tables). Note: electronics and personal items are better kept in a small secure bag or pockets; the venue isn’t liable for loss.Prohibited items: Outside food and drink are not allowed beyond any special BYO notes (there generally aren’t any, as it is a full bar). Weapons, large bags, selfie sticks and professional cameras without permission would be refused. Small personal cameras or smartphones are fine (people love using the retro photobooth on site (burdekin.com.au )). If unsure, ask staff at the entrance.Timing: Gates for an evening concert or party usually open about an hour before the advertised start time. Arriving early can get you a good spot at big events. On weekdays or for acoustic nights, the rooftop opens by late afternoon (check their “Sunset sessions” start at 5:30pm (burdekin.com.au )). If you’re coming for the DJ party on weekends, doors often open between 9pm–10pm (before midnight is typical, since the club stays open until 4am). Check the event details in advance – some matinees (like drag brunch) start early afternoon (burdekin.com.au ).Accessibility: As mentioned above, the main bar area is wheelchair-friendly. (www.creativespaces.net.au ) If you need elevator access, note the lifts serve the upper floors (for entry to the Rooftop or Mini Bar levels) (burdekin.com.au ). Gender-neutral toilets are available (www.creativespaces.net.au ), which is helpful for anyone with accessibility needs or who prefers a universal restroom. Staff are generally accommodating – just ask if you need assistance finding a seat or ride-floor space.Deals and specials: To save on drinks, try to hit the Burdekin before 6pm on Wed–Fri, as happy hour runs then (burdekin.com.au ). And if you come on a Wednesday or Thursday outside happy hour you can take advantage of the burger ($14) or pizza special nights (burdekin.com.au ). (Planning dinner out? Grab burgers on Wed or pizza on Thu at the bar – the deals are well-loved.)Notable don’ts: Don’t arrive expecting indoor seating; this is mainly a standing/dance venue. Don’t forget your dance stamina – nights here end very late, so pace yourself on the drinks. If attending a seated acoustic set, there’s no booking needed (it’s free), but space can fill up by evening; for high-demand concerts or brunches, buy tickets early to avoid disappointment. Emergency exits: Note the fire exits at the back of the room (there is an exit door next to the smoking area). In case of an emergency announcement, calmly proceed downstairs to the street level as directed by staff. Special events: If you hear about a large festival or corporate event at The Burdekin, keep in mind it could book the whole site. Check which room is listed on the ticket (Main Bar vs Rooftop vs Mini Bar) so you go to the right entrance. Sometimes concerts are labeled as “Burdekin Hotel” but actually take place upstairs; the venue staff can direct you.Contact info: For quick reference, the Burdekin’s address is 2-4 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst NSW. The main phone number (for inquiries) is (02) 9331 3066 (burdekin.com.au ). They also have socials for event updates. If you plan a private function, note that the venue’s hire email is [email protected] (burdekin.com.au ) (though for ticketed events you’ll just buy through the usual channels). Final tip: Expect a warm, busy vibe as darks falls. The Burdekin crowd is known to be friendly and inclusive, reflecting Darlinghurst’s reputation as a welcoming nightlife hub. Whether you’re here to dance, sing along to live bands, or just enjoy a unique Aussie night out, the Burdekin Main Bar promises an energetic experience. Just remember – it’s a nightspot first, so soak up the music and memories rather than treating it like a quiet pub.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of the Burdekin Main Bar?
The Main Bar level holds about 255 people (standing) (burdekin.com.au ). If tables and chairs are set up instead of using the dancefloor, it can seat roughly 200. This makes it a moderately sized venue – large enough for a lively crowd but small enough to feel personal.
Is the Burdekin Main Bar the same as the rooftop or other levels?
The Burdekin Main Bar is the ground-floor club space. The venue also has a Level 1 “Mini Bar” (for smaller live gigs, ~140 capacity) and a Rooftop level (around 100 person capacity) (www.tagvenue.com ) (www.tagvenue.com ). If an event is advertised just as “Burdekin Hotel” or “The Burdekin” without specifying a level, it’s wise to double-check which space is used. The ticket or event flier will usually say Main Bar, Mini Bar, or Rooftop. In other words, make sure you go to the right entrance – the Main Bar has its own Oxford St door.
Where is The Burdekin Main Bar located?
The address is 2–4 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 . You'll find it on the corner of Oxford and Liverpool Streets. There is pedestrian access directly from Oxford Street (look for the rainbow-striped facade and vintage neon sign). Its frontage is on Oxford, but remember Darlinghurst streets can be busy – drop-off or parking might be on Liverpool or nearby.
What are the opening hours for the Main Bar?
The Burdekin Main Bar generally opens in the late afternoon and continues late at night. The typical hours are: Wednesday 4pm–9pm, Thursday 4pm–10pm, Friday 4pm–4am, Saturday noon–4am (burdekin.com.au ). (They are closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Sundays.) Note these may vary for special events, but generally the Main Bar itself follows this schedule. The rooftop and Mini Bar have similar evening hours.
How do I buy tickets for a show at the Burdekin Main Bar?
Tickets are sold online through the venue’s event platform or promotional partners (for example, listed on official websites or ticketing agencies). There is no on-site box office for advance sale. Usually you’ll receive a QR code or confirmation you show on your phone at the door. For lower-key club nights, you can often just pay at the door in cash. If a show has a cover charge, there will either be a payment endpoint at entry or you pay at the bar. Always check the event’s page for “door sales only” versus advance ticketing.
What are typical ticket prices and cover charges?
For most events, cover charges tend to be modest. Small club nights or local band shows often charge around $10–$15 entry, and some nights might even be free. Special events can cost more. For example, the popular drag bottomless brunch pricing is fixed at $79 or $99 for the package (burdekin.com.au ). For large touring concerts (rare at this venue), advanced ticket prices could be $20–$30+. Generally plan on spending about $10–$20 on a night out here for entry – plus drinks and food.
Is there seating in the Main Bar?
The Main Bar is primarily a dance/standing room. There are some high-top tables and bench seating along the walls (www.tagvenue.com ), but most guests stand near the dancefloor and bar. If there is a seated show (like a comedy or acoustic set on the rooftop), people often bring chairs or stand. But for Main Bar club nights, seating is minimal, so be prepared to stand or dance.
Does the Burdekin Main Bar have accessible facilities?
Yes. The ground floor Main Bar is wheelchair accessible – it has step-free entry from the street and ramps inside (www.creativespaces.net.au ). An elevator provides access to the upper floors (Mini Bar and Rooftop) (burdekin.com.au ). All-gender (non-gendered) restrooms are available downstairs, making it inclusive. The venue advertises itself as “queer friendly” and accessible, so visitors should find it accommodating if they have mobility or accessibility needs (www.creativespaces.net.au ) (www.creativespaces.net.au ).
What are the best seats or spots in the Main Bar?
Since this space is mainly a standing/dancing club, “best seat” depends on your preference: For the most energy and best view of the DJ, stand near the front of the dancefloor by the DJ booth and LED screen (www.tagvenue.com ). If you prefer to watch from a distance, the bench seats along the wall or higher tables allow a good view of the room without being in the thick of things. Try to avoid standing directly in front of the speakers (they’re usually at floor level behind the DJ), as it can be very loud there. Because the club is open-plan, very few spots have actively obstructed lines of sight.
Is there parking available on site?
There is no dedicated Burdekin car park on site. Nearby street parking is very limited and often metered or permit-only. For paid parking, the closest garage is the Bayswater Road Car Park at 33 Bayswater Rd (Potts Point) about a 5-minute walk away – it’s secure and runs about $39 per day (www.kirketon.com.au ). Other options are public lots at Kings Cross station or along Darlinghurst Rd. If driving, plan to arrive early if you need to find street parking, or use a nearby hotel garage (as mentioned, Kirketon’s Bayswater Rd lot) with validation.
What public transport goes near the venue?
Multiple buses stop within a block of the Burdekin Main Bar. Key routes include the 324, 333 and 340 (linking the Central Business District with Bondi and the Eastern Suburbs) as well as the 392/396 night buses (moovitapp.com ). Simply disembark at an Oxford Street stop near Liverpool or Crown Street, which are a minute’s walk from the door. The nearest train station is Museum (about 10–12 minutes’ walk) (moovitapp.com ); however, most people use city buses to reach Oxford Street from the train stations. Rideshare drop-off is easy – just use “Oxford & Liverpool” as your destination and you’ll arrive right at the entrance.
Are children or teens allowed in the Main Bar?
No. The Burdekin Main Bar enforces a strict 18+ policy. All visitors (including friends and family of performers) must show government ID proving they are 18 or over. This applies at all hours – even if you think a show is early or “family-friendly,” the rules are firm. The venue is licensed and does not permit entry to minors under any circumstances (burdekin.com.au ).
Does the venue serve food, and what kind?
Yes. The Burdekin has an internal kitchen that serves pub classics and snacks. The menu includes pizzas, burgers, bread/sides and a few larger meals. Notably they feature “pizza pockets” and $10 pizza deals during the day (mysydneydetour.com ). If you’re hungry before a show, you can order at the bar – it’s not just drinks. Many patrons grab a pizza or burger either before dancing or as a late-night snack. However, remember this is a nightclub atmosphere; seating for dining is casual.
Is smoking allowed?
No smoking is permitted inside the Main Bar, as per venue policy. The Burdekin does provide a small covered smoking area just off the basement level (www.creativespaces.net.au ). If you need to smoke, step out through the back hallway or side door (staff will point it out). From there you can safely smoke in the designated zone away from the indoor space.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code, but most guests dress in smart-casual evening wear. Jeans, nice shirts, dresses, or stylish tops are common. Because you’ll be dancing, comfortable closed-toe shoes are wise. During warmer months the club can get very hot, so light layers are best. Avoid sportswear or things explicitly rated “beachwear.” In short: look nice but make sure you’re comfortable for a night of partying.
Can I bring a coat or bag to the venue?
The Main Bar does not have a coat check. You may bring in a small bag or backpack, but expect that security might check its contents on entry. If your coat is bulky, you can hang it on an extra chair or by the wall – just keep an eye on it. Big suitcases or large parcels are discouraged, as space is limited. Essentially, bring only what you are comfortable carrying or wearing (many patrons simply carry their phone, wallet, keys and maybe a light jacket into the club).
