Stonewall Hotel

First visit here in a while. Great food, excellent price and service. The venue was not to busy when we visited, but imagine it is much busier towards the weekend.

Been coming here every few years for the past 17 years. (I’m a visitor to ox every few years) it has always been fantastic, the drag, the service, the music and most recently the happy hour!! Last Friday night me and a girlfriend caught up over your happy hour had great chat with the 2 Colombian bar tenders and the Scottish bar tender. It was early so was just a small drag performance but we had a great evening. Excellent work team can’t wait to return when I’m back in Australia.

I came to this bar for the first time and ordered a drink downstairs. Later, I went upstairs, and when I returned to ask for another drink, the bartender rudely and unnecessarily pulled the glass out of my hands without saying a word. I was confused and looked at the lady working there, who told me something about needing to order drinks at the other part of the bar. I explained that this was my first time there and I had no idea about any internal rules. That still doesn’t justify how rude the bartender was. There are polite ways to explain things to a customer — especially a first-time guest. Unfortunately, that kind of behavior ruined the experience. I won’t be coming back, and I wouldn’t recommend this place to anyone expecting basic respect and good service.

What great fun we had here! Such a happy vibe!

My partner has a hip issue, and the security staff treated him with open discrimination, falsely indicating that he was drunk. We explained the situation, but they didn’t even apologize. It’s extremely sad that a place that should embrace diversity does not uphold these values. The poor quality of service is evident every day at this bar, which is why fewer people choose to go there.

WARNING: Unsafe Venue – Please Read Before Visiting! I’m writing this second review because I believe this venue continues to pose a serious risk to the safety and well-being of our community. Unfortunately, my experience here was not only unpleasant—it was traumatic. On the night in question, I had two drinks and was quietly seated and talking when a SECURITY STAFF member unexpectedly grabbed me by the shirt and forcefully removed me from the premises. I felt deeply UNSAFE and called the police. Despite being the one who was assaulted, I ended up being arrested. I believe the security staff acted in a DISCRIMINATORY and AGGRESSIVE manner—what I experienced felt HOMOPHOBIC, RACIST, and entirely unjustified. This incident has had a lasting impact on my life, including legal consequences I should never have faced. I’m sharing this again because there are still many recent negative reviews, and I want to help others stay safe. The venue's managers don't care! Please THINK TWICE before going to this venue. I do not want anyone else to go through what I did.

I usually don’t review stuff like this but I gotta say from the rude entrance to the bar of the guard asking me how much I’ve drank tonight, to the literal rude nasty bartenders…. Worst gay bar I’ve been to in my 31 years of living. Won’t recommend.

I felt discriminated by the gay patrons of this "in-your-face" discriminating gay bar who lets this unacceptable behavior because the Manager, Natalie, herself is also giving me intense looks full of hate and thats why when I tried to speak to her she ignored my request and make up an excuse so that she can avoid facing me, who is also a gay guy, an out femme, who felt attacked in this "supposed" to be safe space for queer people like me.

Stopped by for happy hour (6-8pm), 6.00 for well cocktails (not a bad price but not as good as Universal). Old style coin only operated jukebox playing music videos was cool. Indoor/outdoor patio style seating. Various activities going on throughout the week. Bartenders were very attentive. Came back a second time this week to use up a 15.00 voucher that we won and ended up staying for dinner. 15.00 mains with lots of choices and big portions (ordered the chicken schnitzel). It was ok taste wise but you do get alot of food for the money.

Popped in for a drink at about 2pm on a Tuesday afternoon. We wanted to see the "Castro" of Sydney. It as pretty early, so a lot of places were closed. Stonewall was open. We stepped up to the bar and warmly greeted by the bartender. There were about 3 other patrons who seemed to be regulars, so that told me that they took care of their patrons. We ordered a beer on tap for about $7. It was our first go at an Australian beer. It was good, very light and refreshing. Overall, the bar was clean as were the restrooms. I would've loved to see the nightlife, but maybe for our next visit to Sydney. However, the decor was festive and loud, all good things. I could tell that they throw wild events.

Well I have to say Stonewall is such a great venu for the LGBTIQ ‍ community! They have always been apart of the movements for the greater community and always do their part. A welcome and happy space and great for drinks and just a no attitude fun night out. Staff are amazing, Linda the manager is an absolute gem, always so warm and welcoming and def loves what she does. Stonewall Hotel provides entertainment every night of the week, from sending cute boys mail via snail mail, only this postman doesn't wear pants and tends to be more reliable! If your visiting from another country Stonewall on Syd is a must see for LGBTIQ it even the greater community as they do not discriminate! Peace and love to all

Stonewall Hotel (it really isn't a hotel....there are no rooms) is clearly the most happening and leading of the gay bars in the Oxford Street section of commonly noted as Sydney's gayborhood. Indeed it seems to be about the only one that has anything really going for it on weekdays. Though it gets super busy on weekends too, they then open up all three floor levels so unlike some of the other places that are popular on weekends only, you can usually managed to get in without waiting in line. Stonewall is kind of a mixed bag of things with olders, (read anything 35+), youngers, drags, lesbians, straight girls out on the town with their "best gay boyfriend" & etc. but basically gay male mid-twenties to mid-thirties in age. They have drag show entertainment, go-go dancers, various theme events, fund raisers and the like. There's usually something or some event thing happening and they also have a VIP area where they can host parties. The décor of the place is seems somewhat funky side with their use of various chandeliers. The drinks served tend to be small and somewhat on the weak side. Though I can't say I'm a fan of the place, I'm giving it Four Stars anyway in an effort to be objective as it is one of the most popular of Sydney's gay venues, very active and a lot people just love it.

Our second visit to a gay bar after arriving in Sydney. It was packed with a fun atmosphere. Unfortunately I got short changed by one of the (rather unfriendly and unwelcoming) barmen! Takes my cash, walks over to the till and is then just 'busy' at the other side of the bar - for a long time. Disappointing. I won't be back! Andreas, London UK

One of the oldest and very famous gay bars in Sydney, where I don't think you can be considered a real Sydneysider unless you've been here at least once (regardless of which team you "bat for"). Anyway down to the facts. The good: - Great for a "girls night out hassle free (and a bit of eyecandy ;)) - Open 7 days a week till 4/5am (perfect for that "school night" bender around the Surry Hills area (which shuts down at midnight!) - Cheap drinks Not to mention, insanely cheap drinks. Downsides: - Bathrooms are gross (try not to touch anything) and have a really funky odor! With cheap drinks it can be hard to avoid - you have been warned (maybe use the bathrooms at the more classier Colombian Hotel?!

I have not visited this hotel in over 10 years due to the surcharge they put on. I believe that people should be able to come in and have a drink without paying something extra and the shows are fairly basic..lip sinking. On New Year's Eve I was with a friend who is from the country and wanted to visit a few of the bars. We went to one another before here. Then we were at the door at 9.58am and the surcharge was $20, after 10pm it was $30. So we went in. We did enjoy the music and all three floors were open. We danced for a while. The drinks were reasonable ( well they had to be cheaper with the surcharge) and the shows were as tacky as ever. The crowd became very vocal after a few hours. I could see a few that were going to be escorted out. It is a good pick up place if you want to meet someone...but start at the start of the night. As they say "All cats look grey at night" .

Stonewall, or 'Stonies' (not 'The Wall' - that refers to something different entirely) is the most iconic gay club in Sydney. I have spent so many nights here just moving from one level to the next, getting drunker and drunker and realising that people aren't getting any prettier. I think I went through a Stonewall phase where I had the best partying of my life and then got over it. But going back a couple of times a year is now enjoyable. The drag shows on the ground floor are fantastic, with more up and coming talent than say, the Impy. But the stage is small and productions aren't as flamboyant, if that is possible. Within the last couple of years the previously free club has found a cover charge. Not sure if its all the time or what, but I had to pay $5 to get in recently and was flabbergasted. Hopefully this keeps out some of the lurkers though. There are some people there who are there to pick pockets, take advantage of drunk people. They are incredibly seedy and you can usually spot them from a mile away, although more difficult when intoxicated, obviously. I love that Stonewall is inclusive and all that, and straight friendly etc etc etc but random groups going without gay friends just for kicks kind of changes the vibe of the place. Drinks are expensive, so come with a full wallet. But don't let it get stolen, like mine did. If you are a girl you better learn to pee standing up because the toilets are putrid. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Tall guy with glasses Bartender serves weak drinks and not welcoming to Americans :( will not be back. Lots of bars in the neighborhood.

this venue is a joke... was there tonight, i get asked to leave, literally 3 minutes after purchasing a 3rd drink for the night. I saw 3 people absolutely wasted, and security guards do NOTHING, yet, refused to acknowledge the fact that i have medically diagnosed ADHD and Bipolar type 2, which make me appear a little unusual to those who don't know this about me! this unfortunately happens pretty much every time i go to this venue. They are arrogant towards any mental conditions, refuse to listen or understand. I was more than able to stand, talk, discuss and yet they refused to have any discussion. Steer clear of this venue! ill be taking this up with other avenues as i refuse let this or any other venue treat me in this way.

I was near the front door and my friend got my attention as I turned to speak with them security grabbed my arm with no reason to do so and pulled me out of the venue. Once outside the guard told me I couldn't go back in because of lock out laws. It was scary, intimidating and uncalled for. I suggest stearing clear and finding a friendlier place to hang out at.

Stonewall is just fabulous it's the gay hub of Oxford Street. It is the most well known gay venue, but it is also a local bar. There is entertainment every night of the week and it is free. Bar staff are friendly and efficient. The hotel also has the cheapest counter meals in Sydney, and they are tasty and generous. My favorite night is Sunday when the weekend is winding down. Polly's Follies is on that night which offers a wide variety of acts. Polly, Dawn and Sarah who you are likely to see on the night are funny and welcoming. Security is attentive keeping the venue safe. A degree of gay bar etiquette is essential, play nice with all the other kids and you will have a great night. Play up and security will politely ask you to move on.

Why do you go to Stonewall? Drag Shows, Stonewall must have more drag shows than anywhere. If you're planning a big gay night out Arq and Nevermind are probably where you plan to end up, but they don't really get going until about 1am, so the stonewall is where you start, it is a mixed crowd of the "beautiful people" or those who think they are and everyone else. It is a colourful fun atmosphere and you can buy cocktails in buckets to help you get to your desired state of inebriation. I hadn't been for a while but went with my flat mates a few weeks ago and the three of us sat drinking out of buckets pointing out to each other the cutest guys in the room. Some guy told me I looked like Peter Andre (I had done my hair a little bit crazy) and started laughing at me, he was not a drag queen but with the amount of concealer he was wearing and the Botox in his face, maybe he should have been, I just laughed, besides when I was a teenager I thought Peter Andre was gorgeous. And also they have three levels so always lots to explore.

Discrimination. Three of us walked to the entrance. They welcomed the two of us who were white and said we could enter. And then said our darker complected friend was "too drunk" to enter even though he was very clearly totally sober. Not at all worthy of the name Stonewall.

Well we went on an adventure! With friends visiting from NYC, all we wanted was a big fun night out along Oxford Street with the 3 D's: dancing, drinks and drag queens! After going to a couple other (very pretentious) places, we landed at Stonewall. Sharing its name with a famous dive bar in NYC, we were pleased to find a fun party atmosphere! Met the performers, had STRONG drinks and danced our butts off. When the drag queens went to perform, however, it got weird. Used to tipping the performer during the show, we approached the stage and were greeted by a quite unfriendly security guard who did not allow us to get near the talent. That's odd. I'm just trying to tip... The chilly reception sent us packing sadly cast a dim shadow on what started as a brilliant night!

I was in Sydney on a business trip and i decided to head out with some girlfriends to the gay district in oxford street. The first place i was taken (Trust me , there were many) was Stonewall and i had one of the greatest entertainment experiences here. They had their drag shows start around 10pm and my god was i blown away but the performers here! The Drag Queens were some of the best female impersators i have ever seen. The crowd are really friendly and the atmosphere is great. There is the downstairs / main entrance area which is good for standing round enjoying a drink and having a chat. The upstairs provide a cosy dancing space decked out with dancers and a small bar. This venue is great, small and friendly. A good welcome into Sydney's gay scene. I've been back a-many times to enjoy night out with friends when I'm in town.

Overall, this could probably be a fun bar, if you're into it. Stonewall has a lively decor and the bar staff is pretty friendly. The drinks are fairly weak, though. On two separate occasions I came here having four cocktails and absolutely no buzz either time. (On a side note: I went here for karaoke night, as I have done hundreds of times across three different countries in the last 20-some years, and my experience was quite disappointing. I checked out their website and Facebook page to make sure they had karaoke on Tuesday, and then got to the bar about 40 minutes beforehand. There were maybe 10 people at the bar, and I filled out the song selection card with a couple random tunes, just for fun, as I certainly didn't think there would be a crowd, and I was there just to have a good time. Despite there being absolutely no notification on their website, Facebook page, or sign up area, little did I know that I had just entered a contest! Once I was called to the stage an hour (and four watered down cocktails) later, the host proceeded to rip my song selection, even though the tracks I picked were from their playlist -- songs I never would have chosen had I known it was a contest! So, yeah, this was probably the worst karaoke experience of my life, and I probably won't come back to this bar because of the way they made me feel as a customer after having dropped over $75 bucks on drinks. However, I know my experience is unique, and others might find this place rather enjoyable for some reason.)

It was fun to exp Petrine? The happy hour was really goods. I love the 90s music and videos.

every Monday they have turbo trivia. good for groups. they also have food during and before trivia. the group I always go with is 6-8 large, depending on the day. one of these days my group will win!

Creepy, not funny, low-life jokes and humor all mixed together with bad drag shows and stingy drinks.

I've been coming here for years. Although it never a planned destination, we always know we will loose a few hours in laughs and drinks. If you are not gay friendly then there are many other bars to go too. However if you are, then you will enjoy the atmosphere and the great dancers - male ;)

The bar use to be ok, but has gone downhill massively. Cover charge of $5 is there for late night. And try and get a drink. No, I mean actually try. Unless your 18 and look good and push in, otherwise the barmen wont serve you. They actually wont. Albeit they do give free attitude lol Been a few times..not going back any more

I defiantly wouldn't go to stone wall again after going the other night it has to be 1of the crappiest clubs on Oxford st mid night shift or palms is so much better.

I used to be a regular here on a Friday or Saturday night but the place is beginning to go downhill. The security staff out the front barely let anyone in for really no reason that I can see and have a totally bad attitude towards their customers. Such a shame. Used to be a fun place. Go somewhere else if you want friendly bar and security staff and better drinks.