Bar in Bondi Junction
A colourful, cacti-filled rooftop Mexican restaurant and bar atop The Eastern in Bondi Junction, big on tacos, mezcal cocktails and an 80-strong tequila list.
El Topo has been the eastern suburbs' go-to rooftop for Oaxaca-leaning Mexican food and agave spirits for years, and its recently refreshed terrace only sharpened the appeal. You come for the whole package: a proper cocktail and tequila program alongside a genuine kitchen turning out tacos, quesadillas and slow-cooked short rib. We'd choose it when you want a lively night out that isn't just drinks or just dinner but both.
Work across the taco line-up, add a ceviche and the slow-cooked beef short rib to share, and lean into the mezcal and tequila cocktails — the margaritas are the obvious starting point.
Lively, colourful open-air rooftop terrace with cacti, hanging plants and day-of-the-dead styling.
Local tip: It sits directly above Westfield Bondi Junction, a two-minute walk from the station and bus interchange — an easy pre- or post-shopping stop, and worth booking ahead for a terrace table on warm weekend evenings.
Worth knowing: Despite the "Bondi" association it's in Bondi Junction, not by the sand — the rooftop looks over the shopping precinct, so there are no ocean views, and it gets loud and busy at peak times.
Hours, prices and menus change — always check the venue’s own site before you go. Spotted something out of date? We keep this directory current; details reflect our last check.
Japanese · Bondi Junction
A tiny 18-seat Bondi Junction kaisen counter where ex-Josh Niland chef Tom Tse turns dry-aged fish into precise, build-your-own seafood rice bowls.
Best for: A considered solo or couples' seafood lunch near the interchange
Bar · Bondi Beach
The ocean-facing, walk-in bar terrace inside the restored Bondi Pavilion, pouring cocktails and an all-day coastal menu straight above the sand.
Best for: Sunset drinks and grazing straight off the beach
modern-australian · Bondi Beach
A long-running back-street cafe on Curlewis Street that pours coffee and comfort food by day and slides into a cosy organic-leaning wine bar by night.
Best for: A relaxed local wine-and-plates evening away from the beachfront crowds