6 Boutique Bars to try in Kiama
Tired of frequenting the same old watering holes? Well, you’re in luck, because lately there has been a renaissance of boutique bars – with a number of fine establishments popping up across Kiama, gateway to the NSW South Coast. So, if you’re looking for the best bars in Kiama right now, look no further than this virtual bar hopping tour!
At The Sebel, corner Shoalhaven & Minnamurra St, Kiama. (Open Wed-Sun)
Excuse our French, but an aperitif rendezvous is essential at this chic bar, perched above Black Beach and offering “magnifique” views from its olde-world Parisian-styled interior. Yves is a great place to start your night – with ample space for you and your friends, both inside and out on the leafy terrace. There’s a wide range of tasty coastal-inspired eats, but the real story here is its themed drinks menu. This thing of beauty takes you on a trip around the world as well as a trip back in time, with a bounty of signature cocktails so extensive that you’ll need to return to get through the entire list. Déjà vu, anyone?
Sipping suggestion: The zesty, zingy ‘Simply Beautiful’ signature cocktail
1/55 Collins Street, Kiama. (Open Thurs-Mon)
With its glorious neon sign high on the wall outside, this double-storey “neighbourhood craft cocktail bar” is equal parts cosy, cool and classy. Some buildings were just born to be bars, and the original character oozes from every pore here. Wait, did somebody say “pour”? Settle in downstairs or grab the coveted balcony spot upstairs to enjoy a cheeky selection of cocktails, wines and tap beers, with nightly specials and live music on Fridays, plus banquet style table options to complement your LBs experience.
Sipping suggestion: The bold rum-and-PX ‘Slap My Face, Call Me Pedro’ cocktail
62 Terralong Street, Kiama. (Open Thurs-Mon)
We think all good boutique bars should be positioned alongside bright-and-colourful ice cream parlours – the juxtaposition is simply delicious! But even more tasty are the mezze-style share plates on the menu – no surprise given Miss Arda’s lineage to the nearby Otis deli, the product of a former Ottolenghi Belgravia chef. The main street location only serves to highlight the cosy atmosphere here, with a tempting selection of signature cocktails, pitchers and wines to wash down the Mediterranean and Middle-Eastern inspired eats.
Sipping suggestion: The creamy, fairy-floss fringed ‘Miss Arda’ signature cocktail
6 Terralong Street, Kiama. (Open Tue-Sun)
Now, we know that this listing technically falls under the restaurant category, but we firmly believe the El Corazon margaritas deserve a spot here. While El Corazon is known for its lively fiestas, live music, and bustling bar scene, there are also serene moments where the sheer beauty and tranquility of their location can be truly appreciated. Picture yourself on the outdoor terrace, sipping on a salt-rimmed marg, while watching the sun gracefully descend into the sea… you are welcome! The offerings and hospitality at El Corazon draw inspiration from the owners’ journeys in Mexico. They exclusively use the freshest, seasonally-available produce, which is meticulously prepared each day by passionate chefs, and served with care by their dedicated team.
Sipping suggestion: Their famous Jalapeño Marg – need we say more?
1/17 Noble Street, Gerringong. (Open Thu-Sun)
For a sun-drenched boutique bar experience in Gerringong, you can probably Gather which place we’re about to suggest. Boasting elevated ocean views and sporting a stylish yet laid back coastal vibe, this welcoming bar and event space makes relaxing and enjoying each other’s company as much of a breeze as the actual one floating in from the sea. Famous for its bottomless brunches and dumplings, you’ll also love the shared plates – complemented beautifully by a confident and contemporary wine and cocktail menu. What else can we say – this is an oasis within a town that’s already an oasis!
Sipping suggestion: A Slow Gin Fizz out on the balcony, looking over Werri Beach
3/38-40 Manning Street, Kiama. (Open Thurs-Sun)
If you thought only big cities can have secret spaces hidden down laneways, you’d be wrong. While not technically a bar, this licensed café/art gallery/live music space has everything you could want from a venue. Leaning heavily into its out-of-the-way location to the point of branding itself “Finding Fillmores” on its socials (challenge accepted!) – once you DO find it, you’ll be welcomed by a space that refuses to conform – with a unique country-pub meets factory floor arthouse vibe and a playful passion for supporting live music. This one’s all about chilling to good tunes with good friends (or making new ones), in a no-fuss, comfy setting.
Sipping suggestion: Your fave beverage, with house-made plant-based specials
We’d love to see your favourite venues within the Kiama area – share your photos or footage with us at @kiamansw on Facebook and Instagram, using #kiama #gerringong #gerroa #jamberoo #mimmamurra #bombo.
Destination Kiama