About Spirits Of Newtown
Spirits of Newtown is a craft spirits distillery and bar located at 169 King Street in Newtown, Sydney (www.wildandfree.us ). Opened in 2020 by founders Johanna and Billy, it specialises in small-batch vodka and gin production (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ) (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ). The venue doubles as a public bar and tasting room, showcasing Newtown’s signature bohemian vibe in an intimate inner-city setting. In keeping with its name, Spirits of Newtown blends “spirits” (its vodka and gin) with the local community spirit. The owners pride themselves on eco-friendly practices and local sourcing: their website highlights a “zero waste” distilling process and use of organic ingredients, so each bottle “embodies the essence of Newtown’s vibrant community” (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ) (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ). Truly one-of-a-kind in Sydney’s Inner-West, Spirits of Newtown complements the area’s craft beer scene by focusing on artisanal vodka and gin made right in the neighbourhood.
The venue is compact and deliberately laid-back, housed in a 180 m² heritage storefront (www.onthehouse.com.au ). Inside, you’ll find polished concrete floors, exposed brick and copper stills visible behind the bar – a modern-industrial décor that suits its craft ethos. On the street level there’s a tasting bar where guests can sample house-made gin cocktails or neat spirit pours. Upstairs is a flexible event space: in fact the owners market the second floor as “a versatile private bar ideal for hosting everything from intimate events and art galleries to yoga sessions” (www.wildandfree.us ). This upstairs lounge can host live music or dance events (complete with a small service bar), creative workshops and private parties. In short, Spirits of Newtown stands out not only for its award-winning spirits, but also as a cosy, community-minded venue that captures Newtown’s eccentric and inclusive character.
Events and Programming
Spirits of Newtown has quickly become known for a busy calendar of events. Since opening, the venue hosts regular theme nights and performances almost every week. On a typical week you might find an open-mic night for singer-songwriters or poets, a rowdy karaoke session, or DJ-curated dance nights. (For example, it often runs Open Mic Mondays for budding musicians, and midweek events like Karaoke Tuesday and Open-Deck Wednesday for local DJs.) The venue also stages special and occasional events: dance parties, themed drag bingo shows like “Dammit Janet!”, art exhibitions and even yoga classes. Sydney DJ Society kicked off the distillery’s launch by putting on a two-room house/techno party, promising “Sydney’s best DJs” across downstairs and upstairs rooms (www.wildandfree.us ). That May 2024 launch, for instance, featured names like Illya, Ben Booth and Nick McMartin and drew on styles from progressive house to minimal techno (www.wildandfree.us ). Since then, Spirits of Newtown has continued to blend its craft-bar vibe with music: frequent gig nights spotlight local electronic and indie bands, while drag performers and comedy acts fill the calendar from time to time.
Tickets and entry policies vary by event. Smaller weekly nights (like open mic or karaoke) are typically free or have a low cover charge – often there’s no fee at all on quieter nights. Special late-night dance parties or promoters’ events may carry a ticket price. For example, the big launch party in 2024 had a $25 admission fee (www.wildandfree.us ). Patrons are advised to check the venue’s website or social media for each event’s pricing. Many shows sell tickets or RSVP via online outlets or Facebook events, since Spirits of Newtown does not have an on-site box office. The bar itself opens around late afternoon (after 4 pm) and events usually start in the evening, but exact times depend on the promoter or theme night. To be sure of a spot at a popular gig, savvy visitors often plan ahead: grab tickets online in advance and arrive early on event nights when possible.
Tickets and Booking
Unlike large theatres, Spirits of Newtown does not sell tickets at a dedicated box office. Instead, all tickets are handled through online booking platforms or at-the-door sales. For headline events or club nights, you’ll see tickets offered via the venue’s website, Facebook page or affiliate ticketing sites (without naming them here). The bar encourages guests to buy tickets early – popular gigs can sell out. When an event is announced, booking links and details (including age restrictions, pricing and start times) are always shared on the official site and social feeds. Some events sell advance-purchase tickets only, while others allow walk-ins for cover at the door.
Cover charges tend to be modest. Weekday community nights might be $0–$5, while full-scale club shows run about $10–$30 depending on the lineup (www.wildandfree.us ). For example, the launch party event was priced at $25 a head (www.wildandfree.us ). The bar also offers festival or multi-day passes for certain events when promoted. Happy hour and drink deals are occasionally offered on quieter nights. Note that Spirits of Newtown is strictly 18+, so expect ID checks at entry. Lastly, as it’s also a working distillery, the owners offer guided tours and tastings – but these are by appointment only . You can book a distillery tour or tasting directly on their website or by contacting the venue. These bookings often allow you to see the production process and even fill your own bottle (see next section).
Seating and Layout
The floor plan of Spirits of Newtown is compact and mostly open. The downstairs level (street view) includes the bar-tasting area with a few high tables and stools near the back. Most seating is at the bar itself; there are no formal rows of seats as in a theatre. Upstairs is a wide-open lounge/dance floor. There is typically room for only a small band or DJ booth on one side. For most events, guests stand or mill around the central space and bar counters. If seating is available, it’s usually loose chairs against the perimeter, so be prepared for a standing-room atmosphere during live shows or DJ nights. The sound system can be fairly loud close to the equipment – for better audio clarity, some think the middle of the room is ideal. However, if you want to mingle or chat, standing further toward the rear is fine.
Because of the open layout, there are no “bad” views in a literal sense (you’re rarely far from the action), but vantage varies by event. For example, at an open-mic night, small folding chairs might be set up near the performance area. For dance events, the front few metres of the floor (near the bar counter) see the best sound and often have more wiggle room. Upstairs has modest stage lighting and effects, but it’s still a casual bar setting – it’s not a dark mega-club or sports arena. There are no dedicated VIP decks or reserved sections. On busy nights with crowds, arriving early ensures you can stake out a good spot or grab a seat if some are put out. The general rule: it’s first-come, first-served, general admission-only. Acoustically, the space sounds warmer the farther you are from the speakers, as the concrete and brick naturally reverberate. During an event, avoid the very front by the speakers if you’re sensitive to volume; behind the crowd is usually quieter.
Getting There and Parking
Spirits of Newtown is easy to find at 169 King Street, Newtown (www.wildandfree.us ). King Street runs east–west through Newtown and is a major thoroughfare. Public transport is convenient: the venue is about a 5–10 minute walk west from Newtown Station (on the T2/T3 train lines) (moovitapp.com ). If arriving by train, exit at Newtown Station (entrance is on King St itself) and walk west along King Street toward the city. Several bus routes stop right on King Street opposite or near the distillery – buses like the 422, 423, 426 and 428 all serve King St and Inner West suburbs (moovitapp.com ). Late-night riders can catch the 428 or 428X at nearby stops, or use rideshare apps that can drop you on King Street in front.
Driving in Newtown is possible but street parking is scarce. Paid parking is available a short distance away: for example, the Newtown Central car park on King Street (numbers in the 300s) has hourly rates about $12 for 2 hours (www.parkopedia.com.au ). This lot is roughly a 2–3 minute drive (or 5–10 minute walk) from the venue. On-street metered parking is limited by time zones on King Street itself; read signage carefully to avoid tickets. Alternatively, the nearby side streets (parallel to King St) offer some 2- or 4-hour parking options. Rideshare drivers (Uber/DiDi) will typically stop at the corner of King St and Dickens St, right outside the venue. Overall, public transit or a short taxi ride is often easier than driving. On foot, Newtown is very walkable and the surrounding area has plenty of shops, so arriving a bit early to explore on foot is common among visitors.
Inside the Venue
When you enter Spirits of Newtown, expect a relaxed café-bar atmosphere. There’s no formal cloakroom or coat check – patrons casually leave jackets on chair backs or near their table. At busy shows, staff might lean small stools against the wall or keep them stacked. Security and dress codes are low-key; anything from jeans to casual dresses is fine (people often dress down for comfort). If you have extra-large backpacks or equipment, you may be asked to store them behind the bar or in a safe spot, as is standard for most bars. Cameras (phones or small handheld) are generally allowed, but professional photo or video gear may need prior permission. The vibe is friendly and inclusive: bartenders and hosts are typically welcoming, often mingling with the crowd between sips of cocktails.
The bar menu focuses on house-made products. Expect specialty cocktails (gin and vodka based), a selection of craft beers and ciders, and a straightforward wine list. Because the distillery specializes in vodka and gin, you’ll find creative martini or G&T options alongside classics. Non-alcoholic sodas and mixers are available too. There’s no full kitchen in-house; if you’re hungry, staff can often suggest nearby pizza or snack deliveries. However, some nights see the bar offering simple bar snacks, like popcorn or crisps. The emphasis is clearly on drinking and socialising rather than dining. The toilets are on the ground floor, clean but few in number – plan accordingly at intermission. You may also find merchandise like branded glassware, T-shirts or bottles for sale at the bar if you want a souvenir of your visit.
One unique touch: Spirits of Newtown often lets patrons observe the distilling process. On quieter afternoons, you can schedule a distillery tour or tasting. These tours are by appointment only (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ), and during a tour you might even be invited to fill a bottle with a spirit of your choice (hence their “bring your own containers” slogan) (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ). After hours and on event nights this is of course closed off, but special tasting events pop up periodically. During events, the mood is lively – colored lights sweep the upstairs walls and music pumps through a wall of speakers, giving a clubby edge. The second-story bar serves drinks up above, so you can dance and grab a refill without going downstairs.
Nearby Amenities
One advantage of Spirits of Newtown’s location is the wealth of nearby cafes, restaurants and pubs on King Street. If you want a pre-show meal, you can walk a block or two to find cuisines from Thai and Mexican to vegan and Italian. Popular local eateries like barbecue joints, authentic Thai establishments and the famous “Lentil as Anything” vegetarian café are all within a few minutes’ stroll. For a quick snack, the area's many bakeries and coffee shops (e.g. Rocky Bay Café) are handy. If you plan to keep the night going after a show, nearby bars include the historic Bank Hotel, some snug beer pubs and a craft beer brewery taproom just down Enmore Road.
For out-of-town guests, note that Newtown itself has few large hotels. Many travelers stay in nearby suburbs or in Sydney CBD (about 5 km away). Budget travelers sometimes use the Erskineville YHA or small guesthouses in the area. There are also parking garages, hostels and Airbnbs in the Inner West periphery (Newtown, Enmore, Stanmore) – or across the Casula. If you stay downtown, getting here by train is easy as noted above. Taxis and ride-shares serve Newtown 24/7, but on weekdays the last trains to the city leave around midnight, so plan late-night transit accordingly. In short, the venue is perfectly situated in the heart of Newtown, meaning food, drinks, cinemas (including the Newtown Dendy cinema a few blocks away) and even late-night eateries (a popular pizza shop is on King St) are all walking distance. Plan to arrive 30–60 minutes before busy shows to soak in the neighborhood atmosphere and grab any needed supplies (tickets at door, snacks, etc.).
What Makes This Venue Special
Spirits of Newtown isn’t just another bar – it represents the creative, community-driven spirit of this neighbourhood. It’s unusual for a venue to combine a working distillery with a live-events space, and that unique mix is exactly what makes it stand out. Locals appreciate that every cocktail behind the bar is made in-house (with no additives) and that the owners actively champion recycling and local agriculture. The upstairs room’s flexibility also means the venue can host a quirky event nearly every night, from drag cabaret to ambient yoga, while still feeling cosy. This adaptability has attracted a very loyal crowd: musicians love the friendly open-mic stage, and house-music fans enjoy the club atmosphere without losing sight of the bar’s intimate roots.
Culturally, Spirits of Newtown has quickly become a pet project of Inner West creatives. Here, a vinyl record might be playing on loop during a wine-tasting, then replaced by a thumping house beat for a Friday night dance. This adventurous hybrid of bar and mini-club fits well with Newtown’s reputation as a trendsetting enclave. In fact, the launch event was touted as setting “the bar where it belongs” for Newtown nightlife (www.wildandfree.us ). Since opening, it has hosted both up-and-coming local artists and established DJs, reinforcing Newtown as a destination for both live music and artisanal spirits. Visitors and performers often comment that the place has a “living room” quality – it’s easy to strike up a conversation with the bartender or the band, or to wander in solo and feel welcomed. In short, what makes Spirits of Newtown special is its blend of high-quality craft liquor, creative community events, and the relaxed Aussie neighbourhood vibe all under one roof.
Visitor Tips and Information
Age and ID: The venue is licensed 18+ only. You must bring valid photo ID (driver’s licence or passport) – even closing-time staff will check IDs. Teenagers and kids are not permitted, as this is a late-night bar.
What to Bring: Besides ID, carry cash or card (both are accepted, but some small event fees may be cash-only). If you’ve booked a distillery tour or want to bottle spirits, bring a clean empty bottle – the distillery encourages “bring your own containers” (www.spiritsofnewtown.com ) to fill with vodka or gin. On show nights, however, you won’t need bottles. Wear comfortable clothes and footwear, especially if you plan to dance. Don’t bring outside food or drinks; the bar is well-stocked and it’s courtesy to buy on-site. Consider earplugs or hearing protection if you are sensitive to loud music, especially at DJ nights.
Accessibility: Some accessibility can be a challenge. Spirits of Newtown is indoors with stairs to the second-floor event space, and I haven’t seen evidence of an elevator. Ground-floor areas (the bar and tasting room) are street-level, but performance areas are upstairs. Wheelchair users should phone ahead — the venue may make accommodations such as seat them on the ground level and live stream video of the show. The toilets are on the same floor as the bar. Service animals may be allowed, as per NSW laws for public places, but double-check in advance.
When to Arrive: On event nights, doors usually open 30–60 minutes before showtime. Newtown can get busy, so arrive early to avoid queues, especially at big acts or on weekends. If you just want to cocktail at the bar, any time after ~6 pm is fine. Latecomers should know that some night events run until midnight or later – trains back to the city essentially stop around then, but night buses (428, N171) continue until 3–4 am on weekends. After closing (around midnight), do check public transit schedules or have a rideshare ready before it gets too late.
Policies & Etiquette: Understand that Spirits of Newtown is a bar first, not a concert hall. Smoking is only allowed in the outdoor area (if space is provided) or on the footpath – definitely no smoking inside per NSW law. There is no dress code beyond decent casual. Keep noise to a respectful level when chatting (especially during performances), and support the bar by purchasing drinks rather than skipping out on tabs. Don’t monopolize seating or bring excessive luggage – space is limited. Tip bouquets of performers or giveaways if you enjoy a show – it’s a friendly local crowd vibe. Always check the event details for any special rules (for example, some drag or themed nights might have a costume element). Above all, be polite: the staff are usually the owners or friends, passionate about their new venue, and a friendly hello goes a long way in making your night a great one.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Spirits of Newtown – a bar, a distillery, or both?
Spirits of Newtown is both a working distillery and a bar/event venue. It produces small-batch vodka and gin on site, and also serves those spirits in cocktails and tastings to the public. In other words, you can tour and taste the craft vodka/gin production by day and enjoy live music or DJs in the bar by night. It’s one of the few places in Sydney that combines a distillery with a live entertainment space.
How can I visit the distillery or book a tasting at Spirits of Newtown?
Distillery tours and tastings are offered by appointment only. You need to contact the venue (via their website or phone) to schedule a visit. Tours typically include a look at the stills, a tasting of their vodka and gin, and the opportunity to fill your own bottle. Customers often bring clean bottles to fill fresh from the tap. Since this is not a drop-in tour, definitely book ahead. During busy event nights the tour area is closed to the public.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance, and where can I get them?
For most events, you can buy tickets online through the links provided on Spirits of Newtown’s official website or social media. There is no physical box office at the venue. If an event has sold-out announcements, they will note it online. Smaller nights (like karaoke or open-mic) often have no cover charge and you can just walk in before or after doors open. For paid shows, it’s safest to purchase tickets via the official event listing or contact the venue to avoid missing out at the door.
What is the usual price range for tickets or cover charges?
Entry prices vary by event. Many weekday and open-format nights are very low-cost or even free. Larger music events or themed parties typically cost around $10–$30. For instance, the grand opening party in 2024 was $25 (www.wildandfree.us ). In general, expect to pay only for the special gigs – casual nights are budget-friendly. Always check the current event’s page for exact pricing before you go.
Where exactly is the venue and how do I get there?
Spirits of Newtown is located at 169 King Street, Newtown NSW 2042 (www.wildandfree.us ). King Street is the main street through Newtown. The closest train station is *Newtown Station* (on Sydney Trains’ T2/T3 lines), about a 5–10 minute walk east along King Street. Many buses also run on King Street (routes like 422, 423, 426 and others) (moovitapp.com ). If you drive, note that street parking is limited. Paid parking is available nearby (for example, Newtown Central car park on King St charges about $12 for 2 hours (www.parkopedia.com.au )). Otherwise, take a taxi or rideshare to King St near Dickens St for a drop-off right at the door.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility is limited. The street-level bar area is entry-level, but all live music and DJ events happen upstairs on the second floor. There is no elevator, so wheelchairs cannot easily reach the performance area. If accessibility is a concern, call ahead – the staff may be able to arrange ground-floor seating and stream sound from there. The ground-floor restroom is wheelchair-accessible. In general, the venue adheres to basic accessibility requirements but is not fully fitted for every mobility need.
What time should I arrive for an event?
Show times vary by event, but as a rule of thumb, doors usually open 30–60 minutes before the posted start time. If the event page says 8:00 PM start, expect entry around 7:00–7:30 PM. For very popular acts, arrive even earlier to queue up, as capacity is limited. If you’re just coming for the bar or a quieter performance, arriving any time after 6:00 PM is typically fine. That said, on busy nights there might already be a line outside by early evening.
Are there food or drink options inside the venue?
The main focus at Spirits of Newtown is drinks. The bar serves a range of their own vodka- and gin-based cocktails, plus beer, wine and non-alcoholic sodas. There is no full kitchen, so food is limited. Some light bar snacks (like popcorn or chips) may be offered on certain nights. For a meal, people typically eat beforehand at nearby restaurants or grab pizza/delivery to the venue. So plan to arrive with food either already eaten or with a quick bite beforehand in Newtown’s numerous eateries.
Is there seating or is it all standing/general admission?
Seating is minimal and not guaranteed. Downstairs near the bar there are a few high stools and tables. Upstairs (where performances happen) is mainly standing/dancing room, with maybe a few fold-out chairs along the wall. There are no reserved seats or VIP sections. It works on a first-come, first-served basis: if you arrive early for a show, you might snag a chair; otherwise expect to stand. For comfort, some people arrive very early to grab the limited stools, especially at smaller gigs.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code – most patrons dress casually. Think neat jeans, T-shirts or casual dresses; it’s a relaxed bar environment. Since you may end up dancing, we recommend comfortable shoes. On theme nights, people sometimes dress up (for example, drag bingo often sees playful costumes), but generally anything goes. Avoid anything too formal or clubby – a laid-back “Aussie casual” style is perfect.
What happens if an event is sold out? Can I try to buy at the door?
If an event is officially sold out online, door sales are unlikely, as they may not have the license to exceed capacity. Your best bet is to contact the promoter directly in advance for any waiting lists. For non-ticketed nights, arriving early helps. In general, it’s safest to assume that hit events won’t have door tickets available, so plan to buy ahead.
Can I bring my own alcohol or water bottle into Spirits of Newtown?
No outside alcohol is allowed. Spirits of Newtown operates under a liquor license, which requires all alcoholic drinks to be purchased on site. The “bring your own containers” policy applies only if you’re filling empty bottles with their spirits during a booked tour or tasting – it is not a BYO bar. You may, however, bring an empty refillable bottle or glass to tours as mentioned above. Outside food is also generally discouraged, though small snacks are usually fine. Bottled water can be refilled at the bar easily.
Do they serve food or should I eat before I come?
Because there’s no kitchen, food options at Spirits of Newtown are very limited. It’s a good idea to eat at a nearby restaurant before you arrive. The Newtown area has many great dining options within a few minutes’ walk (cafes, pizzerias, ethnic restaurants, vegan spots, etc.). The bar may have light snacks or allow you to order delivery in, but for a proper meal, plan to dine out beforehand.
Is there a coat check or storage for personal items?
There is no formal coat check. In practice, people hang jackets on the back of chairs or bench against the wall. If you have a bag or coat, you’ll simply place it near your spot. The space is not large, so it’s encouraged to travel light with small bags. The staff is usually happy to hold keys or valuables behind the bar for safekeeping, but large luggage is not recommended.
