If you prefer a classic cocktail over a Bacardi breezer, cosy booths over sleazy dance floors, and quality banter over shouting matches of the word “what?!”, then you’re probably not a club person. Don’t worry – neither are we. With the silly season just around the corner, Mind the Gap’s Katherine Buskariol has reviewed three of Sydney’s best hidden (and themed) bars to get you out of Greenwood and underground – literally.

Abercrombie Lane / (02) 9240 3172 / Open: Mon, Tues, Wed, Sat, Sun: 5pm – late, Thurs, Fri: 12 noon – late

“Just – don’t mention it to anyone, understand? We don’t wanna be shut down.”

This is the hushed message you get at the door to Sydney’s newest speakeasy – a prohibition-themed cocktail bar that you’d never find unless someone really awesome wrote about it in a bar review. Laughter and ragtime jazz ascends the dark staircase until its source comes into view, with Sarah and the Reckless Gentlemen channelling a seriously Gatsby vibe.

Waitresses flutter around in flapper gear, bartenders rock suspenders and everything is done with intricate care. Glass cabinets containing authentic antique hats, delicate coats and rare spirits separate seating sections, and the attention to detail invested in the cocktails is second to none. Head in early to grab a bite to eat (simple old-fashioned shareable dishes), organise a group booking, or be outrageous and stay until 5am – anything goes.

Overall rating: 4/5 (Barvellous)

Yay! The bartenders know what you want even if you don’t, and three separate bars means there’s rarely a queue to grab a drink. Table service is also available.

Nay… The cocktails, though delicious, are too small for their price. Also, this place gets full fast – get in early or you won’t get a seat.

We recommend: Your favourite classic. The bartenders will make it to perfection.

Basement, 156 Clarence Street / pretzels@thebaxterinn.com / Open: Mon – Sat: 4pm – 1am

Don’t be fooled by Baxter’s nondescript entrance. The first time I walked down the unmarked lane off Clarence and found myself in a dingy concrete courtyard facing a gigantic scary man, I thought I’d been set up for a murder film. But it turned out he was the (friendly) bouncer, and I was directed down a dark industrial staircase. I heaved open the basement door and fell into an old-fashioned American saloon.

The first thing you notice about Baxter, after the swelling sound of folk blues and cheerful chatter, is the cosy warmth. Not because it’s packed – the cool brick walls keep you from breaking a sweat – but because of the glowing chandeliers and flickering candlelight. The second thing you notice is the long wooden bar, complete with barstools. It separates Baxter’s customers from the endless glittering mosaic of bottles that pile so high the moustached bartenders need a ladder to reach the premium spirits.

The crowd is mixed, interesting, low-key and unpretentious. The one-page website says it all: “absolutely no bookings, no doorlist, no functions…everyone is welcome”.

Overall rating: 5/5 (Wunderbar)

Yay! Who needs dinner when you have unlimited free pretzels?

Nay… Honestly can’t think of anything wrong with this place – it’s a winner!

We recommend: You ask a bartender for their favourite red. Either the bartenders have very good taste, or Baxter only stocks delicious reds. Probably both.

256 Crown St, Darlinghurst / peanuts@shadypinessaloon.com / Open: Mon – Sun: 4pm – 12am

As Baxter’s older brother (it was opened two years earlier by the same owners – you should also keep an eye out for their new one, Frankie’s Pizza, opening December 1st), Shady Pines has a well-established fan base – and for good reason. Walking into this bar is like walking straight into the Deep South. Big and small taxidermied animals make creepy but cuddly drinking buddies, tall, carved American Indians watch over the room, and bartenders greet you with phrases like “Howdy”. It’s great.

A word of warning, however: this bar is for serious drinkers. The cocktails are delicious but generously strong. But if you’re not so keen on a big one, don’t worry – the atmosphere is entertaining enough to just sit and soak it all up. And if you have cowboy boots, please wear them – the staff don’t, which is deeply upsetting.

Overall rating: 3/5 (Bary nice)

Yay! Shady Pines makes country & western music cool. Also, free peanuts! Are we noticing a trend?

Nay… They need Palmer & Co.’s license. Midnight is too early for this drinking hole to close.

We recommend: a whiskey sour ($17) – YUM.