Kings Cross

Affectionately known as The Cross, this has always been the late-night heart of Sydney. There’s everything you could want in an entertainment precinct, from small bars to pumping nightclubs, cutting-edge theatre to chic restaurants. Kings Cross is also home to two major Sydney landmarks, the dandelion-shaped El Alamein Memorial Fountain and the giant neon-lit Coca-Cola billboard.

Kings Cross Hotel, Potts Point

Things to do

All the attractions are a short stroll from each other. Griffin Theatre Co performs at the intimate SBW Stables Theatre. It’s where many famous actors, including Cate Blanchett, got their start. Kings Cross Theatre puts on plays on the second floor of the Kings Cross Hotel.

Happy Endings Comedy Club is the place to go for laughs. Dance the night at Flamingo Lounge or Boogie Mountain, and watch live music at Candy’s Apartment. For late-night cabaret, head to swish, 1930s-themed Dulcie’s. Local galleries also hold regular exhibitions.

Discover the area’s notorious history on a guided walk. Journey Walks: History, Crime and Culture tours of Sydney offer a riveting tour that explores the razor gangs of the 1920s. You can read a potted cultural history of The Cross in bronze plaques set in the footpath along Darlinghurst Road. You can also rent a bike from Kings Cross Bike Hire to check out the neighbourhood on two wheels.

Patrons enjoying a night out at Kings Cross Hotel in Potts Point, Sydney City

Kings Cross Hotel, Potts Point

Eat & drink

Kings Cross has everything from high end to cheap and cheerful dining. Ezra is modern Middle Eastern, Farmhouse offers an ever-changing five-course set menu, Chula features Mexican plates and agave spirits, Friggitoria is all about laidback Italian and Penny’s Cheese Shop does the best cheese toastie in town. The Kings Cross food markets on Saturdays are also fantastic.

When it comes to coffee, Café Hernandez has been serving espresso since 1972 and Jeremy & Sons also do a great brew. Frankie’s Beans roasts its own beans as does Primary Coffee Roasters.

Sweetheart’s Rooftop is an open-air bar on the top level of the Potts Point Hotel, which is actually in the heart of The Cross. Kings Cross Hotel is another multi-level venue that also includes a rooftop bar and restaurant. At the end of a big night, stop by Thirsty Bird for excellent fried chicken.