Schwartz Brewery Hotel (formerly Macquarie Hotel)

Bill and Toni's Pub Life is the first outpost of their Darlinghurst institution and is tucked at the back of this rebadged grungy pub. Stained glass spelling 'Harpoon Harry's' alludes to the dining room's technicolour past, but it's comfortable, with eclectic antique furniture, comfy seats and the smell of good trattoria cooking. Schnitzel smashed thin then crumbed to order? Check. Salad freshly cut? Check. Orange cordial? No. They're a little more city slick here, as seen with perfect rump steak (add a simple pasta side for $2). There are no desserts and you'll need to fetch drinks downstairs.