About 359 Pitt St
359 Pitt Street is home to i Darts Zen (also called ZEN Bar), a unique underground Asian-themed sports bar in Sydney’s CBD. Rather than a traditional concert hall, it feels like a neon-lit playground of games and socialising. The venue features high-tech electronic darts machines (DARTSLIVE2) in a “neo-Tokyo, modern oriental” setting (www.tripadvisor.ca ). Guests mix cocktails in tower towers under colourful neon lights (www.groupon.com.au ) while snacking on share plates of Asian-style nibbles. In short, it’s a cozy, high-energy “happy hour” venue more than a live-music theatre. Owner descriptions and reviews emphasize the bar’s “fresh new concept” vibe – brought to Sydney by the same team behind i Darts – with lively table service, karaoke rooms and plenty of games (www.tripadvisor.ca ) (www.partystar.com.au ). The atmosphere has been hailed as a “small bar feel with unique activities” (www.partystar.com.au ). Though the building itself has housed offices and shops (it was once known as “The Regent”), 359 Pitt St’s current identity as a darts-and-karaoke bar has made it a trendy draw for after-work drinks and celebration nights in the city.
Events and Programming
359 Pitt Street doesn’t have a fixed artist lineup or concert series like a theatre, but it buzzes with activity every week. The main draw is casual entertainment: electronic darts matches, karaoke singalongs, and sports screenings. DARTSLIVE2 machines let players compete against friends or online opponents, and many groups treat it like a league night or fun tournament. On any given evening you’ll find people lining up to play darts or booking the private karaoke rooms. The vibe is especially lively on weekends and Thursday–Saturday nights. The venue often hosts corporate parties, birthday celebrations, and team-building events – indeed, Groupon notes it’s popular for “after work drinks, weekend shenanigans, celebrations or corporate team-building” (www.groupon.com.au ). Recurring events might include weekly league nights or themed game nights, but generally there’s no ticketing. Instead, visitors usually walk in off the street and pay per dart game and drink. Special events (like holiday parties or private functions) can be arranged by contacting the bar ahead of time.
Tickets and Booking
There is no fixed ticketing system for i Darts Zen – it operates as a walk-in bar. You don’t need to buy tickets in advance for a normal visit. Entry is typically free, and patrons pay only for what they order (drinks, snacks and games). If you’re planning a private event or large group booking (for example, a birthday or corporate party), it’s best to reserve space in advance. The venue can block off dart lanes or karaoke rooms for groups if you contact them by phone or email. For public nights, there usually isn’t a cover charge, though a minimum spend per person may apply for special events or last-minute large reservations. In general, plan to arrive and simply grab a table or lane – at peak times it’s first-come, first-served.
Seating and Layout
The lower-ground space at 359 Pitt St is open-plan and intimate. There is no fixed “seating chart” – instead you’ll find a scattering of high tables and stools around the room. Most guests stand or perch at the bar counter and around the dart machines. The dart lanes themselves have a few chairs nearby, but players usually stand at the oche. The karaoke booths (if booked) have built-in seating and tables. In short, this is a casual lounge, not a seated theatre – you’re free to move between games, the bar, and any empty tables. The neon lighting and music mix together, so acoustics are loud but part of the fun. Visitors note that on a busy weekend the room can get quite full – one reviewer said it was “almost unmovable on a Friday night” – but that adds to the party atmosphere (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). There are no obstructed views to worry about, since everyone is positioned around the central dart-playing area. The best spots depend on your goal: stand by the machines to play or cheer on friends, or grab a high stool at the bar if you just want to chat and drink. VIP sections are not formal here; every guest shares the same lively gaming floor.
Getting There and Parking
359 Pitt St is in the heart of Sydney’s CBD (postal code 2000), on the lower ground (basement) of the building at Pitt & Bathurst Streets. It’s easily reached by public transport. The closest train station is Town Hall Station (City Circle line) – take the Bathurst Street/Pitt Street exit and you’ll see the bar’s entrance in moments. Wynyard Station (T1/T2 lines) is about a 5–10 minute walk north. Light Rail stops are a short walk away (the QVB stop is two blocks east at Market and Elizabeth). Many daytime buses (like the 311/333/343 on Elizabeth Street or 300 on George Street) have stops within a block or two. Walking tips: From Town Hall, cross Bathurst to Pitt St and look for the doorway marked “359-361 Pitt Street (Lower Ground)”. From Wynyard, walk south on York or Clarence to Bathurst, then turn onto Pitt.
Driving in is not recommended if you can avoid it – street parking is limited and metered, and fees in the CBD are high. There are paid parking stations nearby (such as Wilson Parking on York or nearby Allen Lane/Pitt). On-street parking (meters or parking machines) may be found on surrounding side streets, but time limits are strictly enforced. Rideshare and taxis are a convenient alternative: tell your driver to drop you at Bathurst and Pitt Streets (the bar’s entrance). The building has an alley entrance, so be clear: drop off right on Pitt Street. If you do drive, be prepared for Sydney CBD parking rates (typically $8–$12 per hour).
Inside the Venue
Expect a high-energy, gaming-lounge vibe once you walk in. The door leads into a dimly lit bar area with glowing signs and dart boards along one wall. Staff will quickly greet you – if it’s busy you might order drinks at the bar and then grab a nearby table or stand. You must be 18+ to enter since it’s licensed; have your photo ID ready (it’s a common spot for young professionals and students alike). Security checks are minimal (no formal bag check), but the bartenders keep the atmosphere friendly and safe.
The bar counter is well stocked: you’ll find beer, sake, Japanese whiskey, plum wine and a variety of quirky cocktails. Cocktail towers and “flaming shots” are popular among groups. The menu features light Asian snacks and share plates – think dumplings, karaage (fried chicken), spring rolls, satay skewers and fries. (Be warned that portions tend to be small – one guest advised to “fill up before you arrive” because the bar snacks can run out quickly (www.tripadvisor.com.au ).) All food and drink orders are made at the bar – there is no waiter service in the darts area, although servers come to your table once you sit, especially if you’re in a karaoke booth.
As you move around, you’ll see signs of the entertainment: each dart lane has its own screen and LED lights, and the dartboards themselves light up. The sound system plays a mix of pop, dance and K-pop tracks; it’s lively but you can still chat or hear game announcements. There are restrooms down a short hallway (one for men, one for women). There is no coat check – jacket racks or hangers may be available near the entrance, so pack light. The venue itself is fully indoors (no outdoor patio). Ask the staff if you need anything (for example, many guests note the staff are helpful at adjusting the game settings on the DARTSLIVE machines). You can mingle freely – some visitors even rotate between playing darts and jumping into a karaoke session.
Nearby Amenities
359 Pitt Street sits at the edge of Sydney’s CBD dining precinct. For pre- or post-game meals, you’re in luck: the famous Chinatown and nightlife area is just a few minutes south. The nearby Bathurst Street and surrounding lanes host dozens of Asian eateries (noodles shops, dumpling houses, Korean BBQ, Japanese ramen, Thai and more). For instance, Spice Alley (the Chinatown hawker market on Kensington Street) and Market City food court are within easy walking distance. Western pubs and casual cafés line Pitt Street Mall one block south (if you want a pub lunch or sandwich). Upscale dining and sushi bars are also a short walk, especially around Market/Bathurst or down Liverpool Street toward Capitol Theatre.
If you’re visiting from out of town, the bar is close to many hotels. The historic Rendezvous Hotel (at Town Hall) is across Bathurst Street, and Meriton Suites Pitt Street is just a few blocks away. There are also budget options like the YHA Sydney Central (5-min walk) and more upscale chains near Darling Harbour (Novotel, Ibis, Pullman, etc.). Because 359 Pitt is in the core of the city, almost any central hotel (from the CBD to Darling Harbour) will be within a 10–15 minute walk or a quick taxi ride.
Late-night transport options: after dark Town Hall and Wynyard train stations run until around midnight or later on weekends. If you stay later, there are night buses (check Transdev schedules online) and plentiful rideshares available. Taxis and Ubers often gather near Town Hall/Circular Quay. For a fun night out, many groups continue on to Darling Harbour bars (10–15 min walk) or venues in The Rocks (near the Harbour Bridge). If heading home early, be aware the area quiets down after 1–2am; plan your final train or ride share accordingly.
What Makes This Venue Special
359 Pitt Street stands out because it combines bar culture, gaming and Asian pop culture in one package. It was among the first venues in Sydney to introduce electronic darts as an entertainment staple. The owners designed it as a “fresh new concept” – a world away from standard pubs or clubs – and it really delivers a Tokyo/Hong Kong flair (www.tripadvisor.ca ). The neon lighting, Asian fusion drinks and lively atmosphere give guests a taste of East-Asian arcade bars right in the middle of Sydney. Many patrons say it has an unbeatable vibe: one reviewer enthused about its “great atmosphere, drink towers, karaoke and darts!” (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Locally, it’s become a go-to for after-work parties and group fun. While it hasn’t hosted famous music acts or sporting events, it has hosted thousands of friendly competitions and karaoke nights – creating its own kind of local lore. Sydney appreciation of 359 Pitt St comes not from grand historic moments, but from consistently delivering wild nights and new experiences. In short, artists love it because of the fun concept, and audiences love it for an offbeat night out.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The venue is on the lower ground floor, accessible via a short flight of stairs. There is no direct street-level wheelchair entrance advertised, so if you have mobility needs it’s best to call ahead and check if a lift can be arranged. Inside, the spaces between tables and machines can be tight when busy. There are restrooms, but no special disability facilities are publicly noted.
What to Bring: Definitely carry a valid photo ID (18+ only). Bring credit/debit cards (and some cash just in case) for drinks and game credits. Dress is casual – smart casual or club attire both work, but there’s no strict dress code. Remove large backpacks (security may ask you to leave them behind the bar). Feel free to bring your camera/phone (guests often snap photos of board scores or selfies), just be respectful of others. You might want to bring a light jacket for later (aircon can be cool) and comfortable clothes – especially if you plan to play darts or sing karaoke for a few hours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Don’t skip dinner thinking you’ll eat a full meal here – the bar food is tasty but portion-size is small (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Plan to eat beforehand or afterwards if you’re hungry. Also, if you’re in a group, consider booking a table or lane in advance; otherwise you may have to wait during peak times. Keep your drink in hand – bartenders move quickly and it’s easy to lose track of your last round. Check the bill before you leave (some patrons have cautioned about any unexpected charges or errors on drinks, so speak up immediately if something doesn’t look right). Finally, be prepared for loud music and crowds – if you prefer a quiet night, this might not suit you. But for most, the lively chaos is exactly the attraction.
Age & Policies: Everyone must be 18+ (no children or teens, even with parents). The bar is alcohol-licensed, so staff will check IDs. No outside food or drinks are allowed. Smoking is prohibited inside (like all NSW venues), but you can step outside onto the street if needed. Photography is fine for personal use, but please don’t record or distract other karaoke singers without permission. The staff tends to handle any rowdiness quietly; just follow any reasonable house rules they set (e.g. on microphone handling or game fairness).
Best Time to Visit: For a relaxed experience, aim for a weekday evening (Monday through Thursday). Fridays and Saturdays are peak party times (doors might open around 4–5pm on weekdays and early evening on weekends, staying open until late). If you go early (say 6–7pm), you’ll have more space. After 10pm it fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Karaoke often starts buzzing later in the evening, so arriving earlier can let you snag a room or front-row dart lane. Plan your trip around the nightlife – the trains stop running around midnight–1am and closing time is usually a couple of hours after that.
What is at 359 Pitt Street Sydney?
359 Pitt Street is the address of i Darts Zen (also known as ZEN Bar), an underground Asian-themed sports bar. It’s famous for its electronic darts machines and karaoke rooms. Instead of concerts, guests come to socialize, play darts, sing karaoke and enjoy cocktails in a neon-lit, modern oriental atmosphere (www.groupon.com.au ) (www.tripadvisor.ca ).
What types of events happen at 359 Pitt Street (i Darts Zen)?
359 Pitt St doesn’t host concerts, but it’s lively with social events. Regular activities include casual darts competitions (players score on DARTSLIVE2 machines) and private karaoke nights. Groups often book it for birthday parties, office outings or after-work mingle sessions (www.groupon.com.au ). You might find themed party nights or major sports on TV (e.g. big match screenings), but mostly it’s walk-in gaming and party fun every night.
Do I need to buy tickets or make a reservation for i Darts Zen?
No regular tickets are required for general entry. i Darts Zen is open to walk-in guests without a cover charge. You simply order drinks, snacks and pay to play each darts game. For private events or large groups, it’s wise to book ahead. The venue can reserve dart lanes or karaoke rooms if you call in advance. Otherwise, on a normal night you pay at the bar and join in freely.
How do I get to 359 Pitt Street Sydney by public transport?
359 Pitt St is in Sydney’s CBD. The easiest way is by train: Town Hall Station (City Circle line) is steps away. Exit at Bathurst or Hunter Street/Town Hall, then head up Pitt Street. Wynyard and Martin Place stations are also within a 5–10 minute walk. Many buses run on nearby King, York and Macquarie Streets as well. If you take the Light Rail, get off at QVB (Queen Victoria Building) and walk north on Pitt. In the city, almost any train/bus combo will get you within a short walk.
Is there parking available at or near 359 Pitt Street?
There’s no dedicated on-site parking, and street parking in the CBD is scarce and metered. Pay parking stations (such as Wilson or Secure Parking) are a few blocks away on nearby streets like York or Crossley Lane. If driving in, expect to pay around $8–$12 per hour. Because of this, public transport or a taxi/ride-share drop-off (at Bathurst/Pitt) is usually a better bet for visiting after dark.
What is the layout inside i Darts Zen (359 Pitt Street)?
The lower-ground space is an open-plan lounge. Darts machines line one wall; opposite that is the bar counter. High-top tables and stools are scattered around, but much of the crowd stands or watches from the bar area. Separate private booths are available for karaoke. There are no fixed “seats” like in a theatre. When the venue is busy, it can feel packed – but that’s part of the lively charm (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). Everyone shares the same floor, so you just mill between the games, drinks area, and tables.
What food and drinks are served at 359 Pitt Street?
The bar menu features booze and light Asian-style snacks. Expect cocktails (often served in towers for groups), beer, sake, Japanese whiskey and other spirits. You can order small share plates like gyoza, spring rolls, karaage (fried chicken), skewers, fries, etc. Portion sizes tend to be modest, so it’s wise to eat a meal beforehand. All drinks and food are purchased at the bar. While the cocktails are reasonably priced, some guests have noted the food portions are on the small side (www.tripadvisor.com.au ). No outside food/drink is allowed.
Is i Darts Zen wheelchair accessible?
Wheelchair accessibility is limited. The venue is on the lower ground floor, which typically involves stairs. It’s not listed as wheelchair-friendly on most sites, so if mobility access is essential, you should call ahead to check if any ramps or lifts are available. Inside, space can be tight when crowded. There are basic restroom facilities, but no advertised lifts or ramps directly into the dart hall. In summary: access may be challenging for those with mobility restrictions.
Is there an age requirement or dress code at 359 Pitt Street (i Darts Zen)?
Yes. This is a licensed venue, so only adults 18 and over are allowed inside. Everyone will need to show valid photo ID at entry. There is no formal dress code, but the crowd tends to go for casual to smart-casual attire (think jeans & shirts or a casual dress). No overtly beachwear or work uniforms, please. Essentially, dress as you would for a bar or nightclub in the city. Also, keep in mind: no shoes, no entry (and no hats worn backwards), similar to many Sydney nightlife spots.
Can I reserve a darts lane or table in advance?
For ordinary visits, lanes and tables are first-come, first-served – walk in and play. However, if you have a large group or special occasion, you can potentially reserve space. Contact the bar ahead of time (by phone) to arrange a private booking or block-off of lanes. Note that reservations may require a minimum spend or deposit, especially on busy nights. If you hope to guarantee seats, it’s safest to book early, especially for peak times like Friday/Saturday evenings.
What games are available besides darts?
The primary attraction is electronic darts (with games like 301, Cricket, etc.). Besides darts, the venue offers private karaoke rooms where you can sing with friends. Some darts bars also feature simple bar games like pool or dart-based mini-games, but the main focus here is on darts and karaoke. (Check the venue on arrival – it may have novelty items or mini-games in the lounges.) The emphasis is really on darts competition and casual fun rather than other sports.
Are i Darts ZEN and Zen Bar the same place?
Yes. The venue was originally known as i Darts ZEN but later rebranded to ZEN Bar. TripAdvisor notes it’s “brought to you by the same team at I Darts ZEN” with a new name (www.tripadvisor.ca ). In practice, they refer to the same location and concept: a neon-lit Asian sports bar with darts and karaoke. You’ll find both names used in online listings and reviews, but arriving at 359 Pitt Street will take you to the multi-entertainment bar regardless of name.
Can I bring food or drink from outside?
No. This venue is fully serviced, so all food and drink must be purchased inside. BYO food or liquor is not permitted. Bar snacks and cocktails are provided by the bar, so plan to order anything you want once you’re in. (Tip: If you want a full meal before playing darts, step out to nearby restaurants instead of trying to sneak in outside food.)
Is there Wi-Fi or phone reception inside?
Standard mobile phone reception is generally available, since the venue is in the city. There’s no publicly advertised free Wi-Fi, but you can rely on 4G/5G data for apps and social media. If you need internet for booking or games, it’s best to have your own data plan ready (or ask the staff – sometimes they have a guest network). Most people find signal is fine for posting photos or checking messages between games.
