Ivy ★ 4.0
$$$$
CbdThu 21:00-late, Fri 21:30-late
Ivy in Sydney's CBD is the George Street precinct from Merivale whose club runs ivy Thursdays from 9pm and the multi-level WAO Superclub on Fridays.
Tipivy Thursdays tickets are cheaper bought online than at the door; WAO Friday entry starts at 9:30pm.
Oxford Art Factory ★ 4.4
$$$$
DarlinghurstEvent nights, schedule on the venue's listings page
Oxford Art Factory in Sydney's Darlinghurst is the Oxford Street basement venue with a Main Room and a Gallery Bar, booking local and international live acts.
TipThe 500-capacity Main Room takes the bigger touring acts; the 120-capacity Gallery Bar hosts smaller gigs.
Camelot Lounge ★ 4.3
$$$$
MarrickvilleEvent nights, schedule on the venue's listings page
Camelot Lounge in Sydney's Marrickville is the music venue with two rooms and two stages, Camelot and the smaller Django Bar, for jazz, folk and world music.
TipGroups of eight or more book tables by email; check whether your show is in Camelot or in Django Bar.
The Vanguard ★ 4.2
$$$$
NewtownEvent nights, schedule on the venue's listings page
The Vanguard in Sydney's Newtown is the King Street live-music room and restaurant, booking jazz, rock, burlesque shows and DJ nights through the week.
TipDinner-and-show tickets include a meal and reserved seating; GA tickets are sometimes sold at the door.
Enmore Theatre ★ 4.4
$$$$
NewtownEvent nights, box office Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00
Enmore Theatre in Sydney's Newtown is the Enmore Road hall that first opened in 1908 and now hosts touring rock, pop and comedy acts most weeks of the year.
TipIt is a short walk from Newtown station; book a parking spot ahead if you drive, as street parking is limited.
Zephyr Bar Sydney ★ 4.2
$$$$
CbdTue-Thu 15:00-22:00, Fri 15:00-00:00, Sat 14:00-00:00, Sun 14:00-22:00
Zephyr Bar Sydney is the 12th-floor rooftop at the Hyatt Regency on Sussex Street, with harbour views and seasonal cocktail collaborations through the year.
TipMonday is closed and Friday and Saturday run to midnight; New Year's Eve packages face the Darling Harbour fireworks.