The Press Is Sydney’s New Late-Night Destination for Music and Cocktails Hidden Above Bridge Lane.

Sydney hospitality giant Merivale has unveiled their latest venue, The Press, a music-focused bar tucked behind an unmarked door above Bridge Lane in the CBD. The site occupies the historic space that once housed a printing press before becoming the celebrated restaurant Est., now reimagined as an opulent late-night destination where live music takes centre stage.

Conceived by Justin and Bettina Hemmes in collaboration with Merivale’s in-house design team led by Nasim Koerting, the interior layers vintage finds with contemporary materials to create an atmospheric space. Rich timber frames the room while velvet upholstery in deep jewel tones adds tactile warmth. Pink curtains provide drama against pressed metal and mirrored ceilings, and vintage fabrics sourced from European cities sit alongside modern finishes.

The curved pink marble bar with brass detailing anchors the space beneath Murano glass chandeliers. Brass and bronze accents throughout nod to classic musical instruments, while a world-class custom sound system delivers exceptional acoustics for live performances.

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“We wanted to create a space that feels transportive, where you can lose all sense of time and simply immerse yourself in the experience,” says Merivale Design Director Nasim Koerting. “Every material, texture and vintage piece has been carefully sourced to build that layered, atmospheric quality.”

Music programming comes from a newly formed resident band curated by Mike McCaskill and Nick van Tiel, performing nightly sets across jazz, hip-hop and disco. The band transitions from intimate early-evening sessions to high-energy late-night performances, joined by guest musicians and DJs throughout the week.

For private gatherings, the Est Room offers a distinct experience—a 20-person party and karaoke bar complete with an original 1970s bar, mirrored ceilings, disco ball, plush pink carpet and vintage drapery.

Award-winning bartender James Irvine leads the drinks program, with executive Chef Dan Hong in charge of food.

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[Images courtesy of Merivale. Photography by Anson Smart.]