Freda's

Putting Chippendale on the map
Noteworthy for: Freda's recently opened their "cage", a live music space usually occupied by their house band, l'Orchestre Sociale.

Word to the wise: Check the restro-bar's Facebook page for upcoming "lamb in the laneway" nights, where shanks are carved up for all.
Long dismissed (by most) as the grubby, unwanted - not to mention dangerous - child of Sydney's inner west, Chippendale is cleaning up its act. As Surry Hills gentrifies at a rapid pace, curious folk are being lured across the tracks with the promise of lovely little galleries, same-sex salsa lessons and terrific new bars and restaurants. Like Freda's.

Illuminated by bare bulbs, Freda's has the exposed-brick, raw wooden beam stylings of a refitted, century-old warehouse. Mexican rugs warm up the space, and while the cocktail list should not be overlooked, there's enough tasty canteen-style food options to make this nightspot worthy of a dinner date alone.