Australia’s bar scene has once again proven its standing on the global stage, with a strong lineup of local venues making the shortlist for this year’s Restaurant & Bar Design Awards.
Now in its 17th year, the internationally renowned awards ceremony shines a spotlight on the most well designed drinking and dining destinations across the globe, attracting entries from venues and designers in 43 countries.
This year’s shortlist for the Australia and Pacific region reflects the vision and creativity driving Australia’s bar sector, and highlights the operators and designers delivering venues that compete on a global scale.
Notably, Sydney’s Bar Tilda and Bar Julius have continued to capture industry attention and both secured finalist spots. The repeat recognition follows on from their success earlier this year as finalists in the Australian Interior Design Awards.
Designed by Fender Katsalidis, House Made Hospitality’s Bar Tilda combines old-world charm with contemporary design with dramatic stone fishes, dark and earthy plaster walls and fabrics. Meanwhile, at The Eve Hotel in Redfern, Liquid & Larder’s Euro-style Bar Julius by architectural and interior design firm SJB uses contrasts of wood and marble to capture a bold wave of colour.
Sydney venues continue to dominate the Australia and Pacific shortlist, with rooftop bars Jinja, Joji and Wentworth Bar also making the shortlist, alongside speakeasy bar Brooksy and six-part precinct Prefecture 48 which includes cocktail bar Whisky Thief.
Several Australian restaurants have also made the shortlist, including Marmelo and Friends of Fire in Melbourne, The Meat & Wine Co and Soluna in Sydney, and Black Hide and Cucina Regina in Brisbane.
The Restaurant & Bar Design Awards winners will be announced at a ceremony in Dubai on 27 October 2025.