Apollonia is your understated yet exquisite rendezvous. This secret place in Sydney, tucked beneath an old wool store, exudes a charming sense of nostalgia and amore. Inspired by mobster film “The Godfather,” the dimly lit cocktail haven unveils Sicilian romance with each sip. The cocktail menu, thoughtfully curated, showcases a range of delicious libations. Not into mixed drinks? No worries as they've got an excellent selection of wines to satisfy your palate.

In the basement underneath one of Sydney’s best new restaurants, you’ll find Tiva a late-night lounge with live music, DJs and a moody New York feel. Giving that Gatsby feel, the drinks menu focuses on coupes of champagne and distinctive cocktails. We’re lusting after the French press espresso martini, and the tequila martini with rose vermouth poured and shaken tableside.

You could easily walk right past this place – it’s a 1920s-style bar that’s disguised as a butcher. Pretty cool, right? Inside, Earl's Juke Joint pays homage to New Orleans with low lighting, eclectic music and strong cocktails. If you're in Newtown, you need to seek this neat little gem out.

If you're after something a little different, The Cumberland is your spot. Tucked behind a fridge door in an unassuming laneway, this venue brings an underground speakeasy to the heart of Manly - with a Spanish twist!

Renowned chef, Tristan Rosier, of hatted-restaurant Arthur, has another venue just three blocks north. The restaurant is an ode to Rosier’s colourful grandmother, Jane, known for her hospitality and heavy pours. The venue evokes the spirit of a 1970s brasserie in everything from the interiors to the playful menu. With a policy of strictly Australian-only produce and a zero-waste ethos, they're also serving plenty of good karma.

This distinct, underground Italian steakhouse, bar and wine shop is well worth the mysterious adventure. Once you do find the deliberately unmarked doorway in a CBD backstreet, you'll be led downstairs to a dimly lit room. We won't lie, finding your way isn't easy, but trust us, a steak tastes way better once you've earned it! When it comes to the restaurant menu, less is more. Bistecca is solely dedicated to the art of the classic Tuscan steak dish, bistecca alla Fiorentina.

So cool it hurts, this motorbike shop-cum-dining destination is a buzzing hive of activity most days of the week, albeit off the beaten track. Famed for its warming bowls of ramen (not just for dinner, breakfast and lunch, too), but their coffee and modern Australian-Japanese café fare is equally as good.

A true secret place in Sydney, Store Beach quietly beckons those in the know. Located in the Sydney Harbour National Park, this 200-metre strip of pristine sand and azure waters is accessible only by kayak, a 20 to 30 minute paddle from Manly Wharf. Its sheltered cove and the lush bushland surrounding it provide an intimate escape, perfect for couples seeking a quick romantic getaway or families looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches.

Turimetta Beach is a little-known gem among the coolest secret places in Sydney. This unpatrolled beach dances with waves which often playfully crash near the shore. It's not one to pamper you with facilities, and that's what makes it exciting. But remember, it's not for the faint-hearted. Turimetta's strong shore break offers good body surfing for pros, especially when the north-easterly winds whistle through.

Tucked away on the harbour-side of Manly, Collins Flat Beach is an idyllic spot that offers sprawling skyline views and a ton of privacy. It’s accessible only via water or walking trails, and is the kind of place that prompts Instagram posts captioned with, “How’s the serenity?” And serene it is.