Bitter Phew – Sydney

Hidden away on the first floor, of an unassuming 1920’s building, on Oxford Street Darlingurst, Bitter Phew is one of Australia’s finest independent beer institutions.

Opening at the beginning of 2014, Bitter Phew was the brainchild of long-time friends Aaron Edwards, and Jay Pollard. Each pouring a disproportionate amount of blood, sweat, tears and dollars into getting their venue off the ground, and to the award winning bar it is today.

Whilst Jay has since relocated to Denmark, to operate a couple of independent beer venues in the country’s capital. He still plays a role in sourcing harder to find European brews, with a view to shipping the ‘good shit’ down to the taps of Bitter Phew.

In between spending time at Creek & Cella (of which he’s also was a co-owner), Aaron still oversees operations, and tends bar, at Bitter Phew. Ensuring the venue’s 12 x rotating taps, are always stocked with quality, local and international craft beer, and the staff well versed in the finer points of each brew.

Not content to rest on the laurel’s of their 2017 Beer & Brewer‘s Top Beer Venue award. Bitter Phew continue to evolve. Regularly running bottle shares, tap takeovers, and special events (such as the annual Cantilion Lambic Zwanze Day – one of only 2 x Australian bars invited to participate that year).

I’m of the mindset that we’re always looking to improve, and get better at what we do.
It’s that continual goal of working to make every week better than the last, and every year better than the previous – Aaron Edwards

Stepping off the street, and navigating past the rows of fresh kegs, you’ll head up the stairs and be greeted by a cosy, intimate, venue. That’s filled with lashings of timber benches, exposed beams, a long Oregon wood bar, and walls adorned with photography, and artwork, from local artists.

An eclectic mix of furniture, lounges, and intimate nooks, make for ideal for date night get-togethers. Alternatively, you can head out the back to the keg garden, for a breath of fresh air, and some rays.

If you’re new craft beer, and wouldn’t know your Lambics from your Stouts. The passionate, and knowledgable, Bitter Phew crew, are always more than happy to provide guidance. By way of a few samples to help steer you in the direction of a flavour/style that suits your pallet.

If beer’s not your thing, Bitter Phew also stocks a solid selection of wine, bourbon, whiskey and cocktails.

Finally, when you get a hankering to line your stomach with something other than tasty beverages. Local neighbours Mr Crackles, and BL Burgers, have got you covered – delivering delicious burgers, crackling-pork sandwiches, and ‘Bogan fries’ right to your seat/table.

Web: www.bitterphew.com
Address:1/137 Oxford St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Hours:
Sunday 12pm–12am
Monday 5pm–12am
Tuesday 3pm–12am
Wednesday 3pm–12am
Thursday 3pm–12am
Friday 12pm–1:30am
Saturday 12pm–1:30am