About Goodbar
Goodbar was a two-level cocktail bar and nightclub tucked into a historic Oxford Street building in Paddington, Sydney. Reopened in 2016 by promoter Scott Robertson and Division Agency, it seating about 210 people in total (ra.co). The polished concept split into two distinct spaces: a neon-lit industrial cocktail lounge on the ground floor and an underground basement club powered by a state-of-the-art void acoustic sound system and cutting-edge lighting (www.theaureview.com). Its signature Drinks Cabinet menu (by Jason Crawley) focused on “healthier” cocktails using fresh herbs and cold-pressed juices (www.theaureview.com). Food offerings included gourmet bar snacks – think cheese boards, charcuterie and grilled cheese toasties – perfect for late-night nibbling (www.broadsheet.com.au). A late-night license was a major draw: Goodbar sat just outside Sydney’s lockout zone (Dowling Street and Oxford Street boundary), allowing it to stay open until 3am on weekends (concreteplayground.com). In other words, Goodbar revived the old nightclub brand in a new form, combining a trendy bar with a full-blown dance venue in a building that was once the West’s Olympia Picture Theatre (archives.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au) (www.theaureview.com).
Events and Programming
Goodbar’s calendar was anchored by electronic dance music nights and DJ showcases. Fridays typically hosted the “People’s Club” party (curated by local DJs David Bangma and Nergal Youkhana), and Saturdays featured “Nights Like This” – a Division Agency dance event with house and techno artists (www.theaureview.com). Its opening lineup even included international names: Australian media reported that global DJs like health-house star Santé and German techno act Antonio Thamma (“Sven Väth’s guest DJ”) headlined in 2016 (www.theaureview.com). In its first weeks Idris Elba surprised the crowd with a free DJ set (www.theaureview.com). Throughout its run Goodbar booked rotating rosters of local and overseas house/techno talent – for example, Resident Advisor event listings show multi-DJ techno nights (e.g. “Deep Techno House” events) with online tickets starting at about $10 and $20 at the door (ra.co). Not every night was big techno: the upstairs lounge sometimes held vinyl-only “analog” nights (www.theaureview.com). By 2019 Goodbar was a fixture on Sydney’s club circuit, though by late 2021 it was reported as permanently closed (concreteplayground.com).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Goodbar’s events were usually available online through event promoters or the venue’s announcement channels. Popular shows would sell in advance—coverage of past Goodbar events notes that online tickets could start at roughly $10, rising to around $20 at the door (ra.co). Some nights offered no cover charge until a certain time: for example, press reports said arriving before 9pm on event nights was free entry (www.broadsheet.com.au). In practice, the best strategy was to check Goodbar’s official listings or social media for event details, RSVP or guest-list info, and ticket links. If a show wasn’t sold out, door sales were possible (often at similar prices to presale). In short, treat Goodbar like most small clubs: secure tickets early for headliners, or arrive early to take advantage of any free/cheaper entry period (www.broadsheet.com.au) (ra.co).
Seating and Layout
Goodbar had a mostly general-admission, standing-room layout. The upper “cocktail lounge” level (the first floor) contained the bar and some bench seating and couches, giving a relaxed lounge vibe, while the lower basement was mostly open dance floor (www.theaureview.com) (www.broadsheet.com.au). Time Out described it as “a sophisticated lounge bar with laid-back dancefloor on top, and a] serious party bunker at the bottom” ([www.timeout.com). Music and sound played throughout both levels – the upstairs floor even features occasional DJ booths – so patrons could move between dancing downstairs and chatting at the bar. In practice the best spot depends on your mood: stick to the basement near the DJ for peak sound and energy (Void speakers deliver crisp audio), or retire to a couch upstairs if you prefer quieter conversation with a view of the club below. There were no fixed VIP boxes or assigned theatre seats; any sofas or bar stools were first-come (bookings were typically only at the door). Because the room is compact and the crowd dense on busy nights, the main consideration is acoustic – Goodbar’s sound system meant both floors enjoyed great sound fidelity (www.theaureview.com).
Getting There and Parking
Goodbar was located at 11A Oxford Street, Paddington (NSW 2021) (concreteplayground.com). That puts it on the Oxford/Dowling Street corner in inner-city Paddington, just outside the Sydney CBD lockout zone. Oxford Street is a major thoroughfare, so expect city buses to run by frequently. In practice, several bus routes (such as the Bondi-Express and Eastern Suburbs routes) stop on Oxford near Dowling Street; you can connect from Central or Town Hall stations via a short bus trip or quick taxi. For example, take an eastbound Oxford Street bus (like the 333 or 380 series) and alight at Oxford/Dowling – it’s a two-minute walk to Goodbar. After late shows, rideshare and cabs are recommended (Uber/Lyft/etc drop-offs are easy on Oxford Street outside the venue).
- Parking: Metered street parking along Oxford Street and nearby side streets is very limited (often 1–2 hour max, weekdays). The nearest public parking is several blocks away – for example, the Riley Street Car Park by St Vincent’s Hospital (about a 10-minute walk) charges roughly $12 for 2 hours (www.parkopedia.com.au). In short, plan for transit or rideshares rather than on-site parking, as Goodbar has no dedicated car lot.
- Walking: From the city center it’s about a 15–20 minute walk east along Oxford Street (via Hyde Park and through Darlinghurst). If you’re already in Paddington/Fitzroy Gardens, it’s only a few minutes on foot.
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, expect Goodbar to be dark, loud and high-energy. There was typically a cover-charge line at night and an ID check (strictly 18+) at the door. Security may pat down bags (large backpacks were discouraged) and collect any unopened drinks. Once inside, the feeling is intimate and gritty – exposed concrete walls lit by neon signs and disco balls, with a bustling bar area. Atmosphere: Dress is usually business-casual–smart-casual. Men and women tend to wear stylish night-out clothes (think neat shirts, dresses, or fashionable clubwear, not sports jerseys or work uniforms). Shoes should be comfortable for dancing; you will be on your feet if downstairs. Bars/Food: There’s a bar on each level serving cocktails, wine and beers. Goodbar was known for its creative cocktails (with themes like healthy botanicals (www.theaureview.com)) and a special selection of whiskies. Bartenders were friendly and often had specials – past event promotions even featured early-evening drink deals (e.g. $6 beers, $10 cocktails) (ra.co). Light bar snacks (cheese boards, charcuterie, truffle popcorn, grilled cheese toasties) were available pretty late into the night (www.broadsheet.com.au). Restrooms and Services: The venue had basic gendered bathrooms on each floor. It did not have a coat check – patrons typically had to hold onto coats and bags. Wi-Fi was not advertised, so most guests use mobile data. Merchandise was minimal (no big gift shop or anything – perhaps a few branded tees or stickers, but it was not a merch-focused club). Connectivity: Goodbar had decent cell reception; ordering another round or calling a ride-share from inside usually worked fine. Overall, inside Goodbar is about the combined experience of music, drinks and dancing – whether mingling at the upstairs lounge or losing yourself on the packed dancefloor below.
Nearby Amenities
Oxford Street in Paddington is lined with cafes, restaurants and bars, making it easy to find food or grab a drink before or after an event. Steps away you’ll find popular spots such as Totti’s (neapolitan pizza), Bondi Harvest (American diner), Two Wolves Extra (24/7 pizza joint) and Curry’s on Oxford (Indian eats). The classic Paddington Hotel pub (restaurant and bar at 384 Oxford St) is a few minutes’ stroll. For more dining, nearby enclaves like Macleay Street, Five Ways or Darlinghurst Rd have pubs and bistros, or try the new 25hours Hotel’s bars (opening on the corner). Late-night cafes and bakeries in Paddington mean you can even grab breakfast early. As for lodging, options include the historic Courthouse Hotel (nearby) or the forthcoming 25hours Hotel on Oxford Street, plus many boutique inns and Airbnb rentals in Paddington and surrounding suburbs. In short, many mid-range and budget hotels are within a mile, and cafes and pubs are plentiful for a pre-show meal. After midnight, plan taxis/Uber: Bathurst Street (toward Cathedral Square) has a taxi rank, or walk one block to Hyde Park for 24-hour transport options.
What Makes This Venue Special
Goodbar stood out in Sydney’s nightlife for several reasons. It married the intimacy of a cocktail bar with the adrenaline of a techno club in one location – a concept few venues managed post-lockouts (www.theaureview.com). Its Paddington location (just outside the CBD) meant it could legally party until 3–4am, filling a void for grown-up night owls (concreteplayground.com). The industrial-chic decor (neon signs, exposed concrete and mirrored disco balls) gave it a Berlin-meets-NYC rave ambiance (www.theaureview.com). Goodbar also paid homage to the area’s nightlife history by keeping the original “Goodbar” name – the name had been iconic “back in the day” before closing in 2006 (concreteplayground.com). On the cultural side, many Sydney DJs and clubbers saw Goodbar as a breath of fresh air. Owner Robertson envisioned it as part-cocktail oasis (with fine scotch and cold-pressed mixers) and part-dance haven (www.theaureview.com), aiming to “create an intimate environment” that could turn lively by night (www.theaureview.com). Legendary promotions (like Idris Elba’s surprise set in 2016 (www.theaureview.com)) and its status as a rare 3am licence venue made Goodbar a talked-about hotspot. In short, it mattered because it helped revive inner-city nightlife, combining quality mixology with underground music, all in a storied venue space (concreteplayground.com) (www.theaureview.com).
Visitor Tips and Information
- ID and Age: Goodbar was strictly 18+. Bring valid photo ID (passport or driver’s licence). No minors allowed.
- Dress Code: Smart-casual night-out wear is expected. Avoid sportswear, work uniforms or very casual beachwear. Dress trendy enough to fit a hip lounge/bar scene.
- Arrive Early: Doors open late (around 8–9pm) and cover often starts around 10pm or later. Arriving before 9pm can score free or discounted entry (www.broadsheet.com.au). Nights can sell out, so early arrival is wise for big events.
- Carry Licensing: Goodbar had a 3am licence, so expect music and dancing until at least 3am (sometimes 4am). Train/metro lines do not run that late, so organize car or rideshare for the trip home.
- Bag Policy: Large bags and outside food/drinks were typically frowned on. Stick to a small purse or wallet. Bulky backpacks can be refused at security.
- Accessibility: The venue is on two floors with only stairs – unfortunately there was no elevator, making basement access difficult for wheelchairs. Restrooms might not have been fully ADA-compliant (no recorded “lift”). Guests with mobility issues should plan accordingly (the lounge floor is easier accessible than the club floor).
- Noise Level: Upstairs is loud too, and downstairs very loud (typical dance-club volume). Bringing earplugs is not a bad idea if you’re sensitive to bass/treble. Otherwise, just enjoy the music vibe.
- Hydration: Dancing uses energy. Goodbar sold water and soft drinks, but you can also refill a reusable bottle at the bar.
By keeping these tips in mind – especially valid ID, walking shoes and an early arrival – visitors could focus on enjoying Goodbar’s nightlife without surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of events and music are typical at Goodbar?
Goodbar focused on electronic dance music – primarily house and techno. It hosted local DJ residencies and international guest DJs, especially on Friday and Saturday club nights. For example, it launched “People’s Club” (a forward-thinking electronic night) on Fridays and “Nights Like This” (diverse house/techno) on Saturdays (www.theaureview.com). Specialty events – vinyl nights or themed parties – also ran occasionally.
How can I get tickets or RSVP for a Goodbar event?
Goodbar did not have a traditional box office. Tickets were generally sold online through event promoters or via the venue’s official announcements. If you planned to attend, you would look up Goodbar’s event on ticketing sites or social media, grab a presale (often ~$10–$20) (ra.co), or pay the door charge. On some nights, arriving early (before ~9pm) allowed free entry (www.broadsheet.com.au). The bottom line: check the official Goodbar listing or event page in advance and book early for popular DJs.
Where should I stand for the best view or experience?
Goodbar had no fixed seating; most of the basement was open dance floor. For a close-up view of the DJ and sound, positioning yourself toward the front of the dance floor is ideal. If you prefer more space or conversation, head upstairs near the lounge or bar area – you can still hear the music but have chairs/couches. Both levels get the benefit of the venue’s high-quality sound system (www.theaureview.com).
Are there VIP sections or special seating?
Goodbar was mostly general admission; there were no permanently reserved VIP boxes. Any sofas or benches were filled on a first-come basis. (For large groups, some venues sometimes call ahead for group tickets, but Goodbar had no formal VIP table service like some larger clubs.) Practically, the venue treated everyone equally on entry.
What is the dress code at Goodbar?
The dress code was typical club-casual. Guests generally dressed fashionably for a night out – think neat jeans or slacks with a smart shirt, dresses, trendy tops, etc. Sneakers were common but avoid athletic jerseys or very casual daywear. In short, good grooming and style were expected. There was no formal requirement, but overly sloppy or sports attire might stand out.
Is Goodbar wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately no. Goodbar’s club area was in a basement reached by stairs, and there was no elevator. This meant the dance floor level was not accessible for wheelchairs. The upstairs lounge was at street level (with one step from the sidewalk) so if someone needed the bar only, that was reachable. But overall Goodbar was not fully ADA-compliant, due to stairs.
Where can I park or unload near Goodbar?
Street parking in Paddington is very limited. Oxford Street outside Goodbar has metered spaces (usually 1–2 hour limits on weekdays). For longer stays, the nearest public parking is on Riley Street (near St Vincent’s Hospital), which charged about $12 for 2 hours (www.parkopedia.com.au). There is no parking lot at the venue itself. Because late-night street parking may be unreliable, many patrons took taxis or rideshares to the venue and home instead.
What public transport serves Goodbar?
Goodbar was on Oxford Street, which is served by frequent buses. In particular, the Eastern Suburbs express buses (such as the 333 from Central/Martin Place to Bondi) and local Oxford Street routes stop nearby. There’s no train station in Paddington, but you can take any eastbound bus from Town Hall or Martin Place and hop off at Oxford/Dowling. If traveling after midnight, trains won’t run, so a night bus or rideshare might be needed.
Does Goodbar serve food and drinks?
Yes. Goodbar was both a bar and a club. The bartenders offered a cocktail menu (notably creative drinks using herbs and juices (www.theaureview.com)), along with beer and wine. They also served hot snacks. The food menu included bar classics with a twist – for example, cheese and charcuterie plates, gourmet toasties (like grilled cheese sandwiches) and truffle popcorn (www.broadsheet.com.au). So patrons could eat onsite while enjoying the music.
What does “Goodbar” refer to?
“Goodbar” was the original name of a famous Sydney nightclub in the same building on Oxford Street. Though the venue closed in 2006, the new operators decided to revive the legacy brand in 2016. So “Goodbar” became the name of this refreshed club/bar. There’s no special meaning beyond the historical name – it was simply iconic and recognizable to longtime Sydney clubbers (concreteplayground.com) (www.theaureview.com).
Is photography or video recording allowed inside?
Goodbar didn’t explicitly ban casual phone photography, but as with most clubs, you should be mindful of others. Flash photography likely would be discouraged since it can disturb performers or dancers. There was no professional photo area or press passes generally. In practice, taking a few photos with your phone was tolerated, but large cameras or intense filming was not part of the typical event experience.
What happens if I lose something at Goodbar?
Goodbar closed after 2021, so there is unfortunately no staff to recover lost items now. Historically, if something was lost (like a wallet or phone), one would usually ask security or staff immediately. Since the venue was small, items left behind might be held at the bar. But as it stands, if you find yourself visiting an event when it was open, treat it like any club: keep personal items on hand and be cautious crowd-dancing.
Is Goodbar still open or will it reopen?
As of the last reports, Goodbar is closed. Local listings mark it as “permanently closed” (concreteplayground.com). Its building is being repurposed (for example, part of a hotel/retail development). There has been no official announcement of a reopening, so fans should assume no events are currently scheduled. Always check very recent local news or venue listings, but plan that Goodbar won’t be hosting shows.