Stay here: Ace Hotel Sydney

What’s the deal? 

Nestled in Sydney’s trendy Surry Hills neighbourhood, Ace Hotel Sydney is the ideal urban getaway, capturing the best of Australia’s laid-back charm and friendly hospitality while bordering Sydney’s central business district. Opened in 2022, it’s the American brand’s first and only hotel south of the equator.

We stayed in the Medium Plus room: high-ceilinged and spacious, it had both a king bed and a daybed, as well as a custom Tivoli radio. One of the most notable and unique features was the record player, which came with a small collection of vintage vinyl that you can listen to while lounging. Each room is different – some even have a guitar in them. 

Why stay? 

Each Ace Hotel has a design that reflects the essence of its location, and the Sydney outpost is no exception. Its earthy, rustic interiors give off a cosy and intimate feel – think sage and wood, and low, warm lighting. There’s also a creative spirit that manifests in the Australian art displayed around the hotel and the coffee table books placed in the lobby. 

Dining here is excellent: there’s Loam, the all-day lobby café, or Kiln, the 18th-floor rooftop restaurant, where a seasonal, veg-forward dishes are served alongside a beautiful skyline view. Kiln’s award-winning Chef Mitch Orr curates a modern Australian fusion menu that draws inspiration from Southeast Asia, Japan and Southern Europe. Some of his most imaginative dishes include bread with koji butter, ginger and kombu steamed koshihikari rice, and grilled coral tooth mushroom on a wasabi leaf. 

Don’t miss

Look out for weekly entertainment and special events, such as Late Nights at Kiln, where the latest records are spun by Sydney DJs, as well as musical performances in the lobby every Thursday.