“Housed in a former tile factory in trendy Surry Hills, Ace Hotel has a trendy, retro-cool vibe, with original pieces by the artist in residence adorning the walls. Expect an earthy colour palette, striped woollen blankets & slick bathrooms. The hip lobby bar, two restaurants & cafe are top-notch.”

Hotel review

If you’re after a hotel that’s just as much about the atmosphere as it is about the stay, Ace Hotel Sydney is your spot. Effortlessly cool it’s found in the heart of Surry Hills, one of Sydney’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
 
The hotel site itself has serious history—it’s home to Australia’s earliest pottery kiln, dating back to the 1820s. Designed by Flack Studio, the interiors are a love letter to the unique history of the building and take inspiration from the Australian landscape—think warm terracotta, earthy toned marble, raw concrete, and timber finishes. The vibe? Think ‘70s recording studio meets a modern artist’s loft, complete with retro lighting and playful, contemporary art displayed throughout.
 
Despite its 275 rooms, the hotel maintains an intimate feel. The rooms have a minimalist yet cosy aesthetic perfect for winding down after a day of exploring. Expect quirky details like guitars and record players (yes, with actual vinyl to spin) and locally sourced snacks in the minibar. Ace Hotel really leans into 'lobby culture', and it works, the lobby feels like a living room-meets-co-working space, it hums with a creative energy that makes you want to linger. Not to mention the ever changing artist residency program and a packed calendar of events (Live music, talks, DJs, workshops—you name it).
 
Food-wise, LOAM, the all-day restaurant, focuses on fresh, seasonal Australian ingredients, but Kiln, the open-air rooftop restaurant and bar, is the real highlight. With fantastic city views, inventive cocktails, and a bold menu curated by chef Beau Clugston, it draws a cool crowd throughout the week. A must, even if you’re not staying at the hotel.
 
Whether you’re staying for the weekend, soaking up the best of the city or just stopping by for a cocktail, Ace Hotel Sydney isn’t just a place to stay—it’s a place to be!

Recommended for

  • City Style

    • A super-stylish urban pad, filled with original artwork, retro-cool interiors & hip bars and eateries
  • Groups

    • Groups of friends will adore the two-bedroom suites, lively communal spaces & sociable vibe
  • Restaurant

    • Chef Beau Clugston cooks up a storm at 18th-floor rooftop restaurant Kiln, whilst LOAM offers relaxed natural fare
  • Cycling

    • Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to zip around central Sydney on two wheels — Centennial Park is a favourite spot
  • Museums

    • The Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of New South Wales showcase a hugely impressive series of exhibits
  • Great walks

    • Stoll through nearby Hyde Park or the Royal Botanic Gardens for leafy scenery and beautiful blooms
  • Artworks

    • The hotel showcases modern art pieces throughout, many created by the artist in residence
  • Close to nightlife

    • The bars, clubs, cafes and eateries of bustling Crown Street are just a short walk away
  • Weddings

    • Also a fabulously cool wedding venue, with private spaces & cracking cuisine
  • Designer

    • The retro-inspired interiors were designed by Flack Studios
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

    • Book a terrace room for your private outdoor space
  • Family Suites

  • Lively

  • Learning

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Romantic

  • Full of character

  • Good wine list

  • House party feel

  • Lively area

  • Local markets

  • Boutique

  • Golf

  • Chic

  • Gym

  • Pet friendly

  • Quirky

  • Child friendly

  • Retro/Vintage

  • Sights nearby

  • Disabled access

  • Designer Shopping

  • Contemporary

  • Air conditioning

  • Views

  • Conference facilities

Facilities

  • Rooms

    275 rooms in this hotel
  • Restaurant

    Chef Beau Clugston cooks up a storm at 18th-floor rooftop restaurant Kiln, whilst LOAM offers relaxed natural fare
  • Bar

    Sip cocktails in the Lobby bar, or at laid-back cafe and bar Good Chemistry
  • Rooms with balcony/terrace

    Book a terrace room for your private outdoor space
  • Meeting Room

  • Walking distance restaurants

  • Bicycles available

  • Family Suites

  • Shops

  • Parking

  • Cots available

  • Private dining room

  • Sit-out Terrace

  • Wifi

  • Good wine list

  • Lift

  • Room service

  • Gym

  • Pet friendly

  • Child friendly

  • Sitting Room

  • Bath robes

  • Disabled access

  • Suites

  • Satellite / Cable TV

  • Air conditioning

  • Conference facilities

  • Safe

Activities

  • Cycling

    • Hop aboard the hotel's bicycles to zip around central Sydney on two wheels — Centennial Park is a favourite spot
  • Museums

    • The Australian Museum and the Art Gallery of New South Wales showcase a hugely impressive series of exhibits
  • Great walks

    • Stoll through nearby Hyde Park or the Royal Botanic Gardens for leafy scenery and beautiful blooms
  • Close to nightlife

    • The bars, clubs, cafes and eateries of bustling Crown Street are just a short walk away
  • Theatre

    • Catch a performance at the nearby Capitol Theatre
  • Learning

  • Local markets

  • Golf

  • Sights nearby

  • Designer Shopping

Map & Location

Other reviews

Ace Hotel Sydney - Hot List 2023

"The focus on both the creative and First Nation communities of Sydney place this designer outpost of Ace above the rest."

Originally published by Condé Nast Traveler

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