
Friend in Hand Hotel
A famously quirky Sydney pub with eclectic decor, a resident cockatoo, and legendary Friday night comedy shows.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live comedy & buzzing atmosphere

Friend in Hand Hotel
Best Time
Live comedy & buzzing atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A famously quirky Sydney pub with eclectic decor, a resident cockatoo, and legendary Friday night comedy shows.
"This place is a visual feast with a legendary comedy night and great food!"

🎯 Catch the Comedy!
Friday nights feature the legendary 'Mic in Stand' comedy club. Book ahead if possible!
📸 Insta-Worthy Decor
The pub's unique decor, from hanging kayaks to vintage signs, is a photographer's dream.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Resident Cockatoo
Main Pub Area
A friendly, feathered local who adds a unique charm to the pub's already quirky atmosphere.

Mic in Stand Comedy Club
Upstairs
Legendary Friday night comedy showcases offering a hilarious evening of stand-up talent.

Eclectic Decor
Throughout the Pub
Vintage signs, hanging kayaks, and quirky art create a visually stimulating and memorable environment.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vibrant Vibes & Unique Decor
Comedy & Culinary Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Catch the Comedy!
Friday nights feature the legendary 'Mic in Stand' comedy club. Book ahead if possible!
📸 Insta-Worthy Decor
The pub's unique decor, from hanging kayaks to vintage signs, is a photographer's dream.
👍 Schnitzel is a Hit
Many reviewers rave about the veal schnitzel, calling it one of the best they've had.
🦜 Say Hi to the Cockatoo
Don't miss the friendly resident cockatoo, a unique and memorable part of the pub experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Catch the Comedy!
Friday nights feature the legendary 'Mic in Stand' comedy club. Book ahead if possible!
📸 Insta-Worthy Decor
The pub's unique decor, from hanging kayaks to vintage signs, is a photographer's dream.
👍 Schnitzel is a Hit
Many reviewers rave about the veal schnitzel, calling it one of the best they've had.
🦜 Say Hi to the Cockatoo
Don't miss the friendly resident cockatoo, a unique and memorable part of the pub experience.
🍺 Great Beer Selection
Enjoy a wide selection of beers to complement your meal and the lively pub atmosphere.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Friend in Hand Hotel is celebrated for its incredibly unique and quirky atmosphere, featuring eclectic decor and a friendly resident cockatoo. Visitors praise the vibrant vibe, especially on comedy nights, and many rave about the delicious schnitzel. While most experiences are positive, some have found certain dishes, like the spice bag, to be less enjoyable.
"Fantastic food & drinks .. great service friendly vibes! In the pictures half pasta and half schitty was absolutely amazing 👏.. and my wife had the Irish Spice bag.. will definatly come back"
Dan Rice
"Well I stopped in for lunch and found the newly renovated pub in good shape but could do with some more art. But very tasteful in the way they renovated it.
I had the veal schnitzel with cheese and Neapolitan sauce. Fantastic.
The veal was amazing and the crumb was great. Not heavy just good.
I think the cheese was provolone and the sauce was house made and had good flavour to it. ( all gone).
The chips were great I just put a little bit more salt on them. Gold.
The salad great. So much of it and the dressing was wonderful with plenty of it all over. ( this is in my top 3 schnitzels ).
5 out of 5 plates cleaned."
leon devril
"Ordered a spice bag. Never had one before. Didn't enjoy it. Not sure if they all taste like this but the chicken was dry and overcooked. Didn't enjoy the chips or veg either. Curry sauce was ok."
joseph lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Friend in Hand Hotel is located in Glebe, Sydney. It's easily accessible by public transport. Several bus routes stop nearby, and it's a pleasant walk from the Glebe light rail stop. Parking can be challenging in Glebe, so public transport is often recommended.
Street parking is available in the Glebe area, but it can be limited and time-restricted, especially during peak hours. Consider using public transport or ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the pub itself is generally free. However, for special events like the 'Mic in Stand' comedy club on Fridays, you may need to purchase tickets. It's best to check their website or social media for event-specific ticketing information.
The pub typically opens in the afternoon and stays open late. Specific hours can vary, especially on weekends and for events. It's advisable to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date opening times.
The Friend in Hand Hotel has a relaxed, casual atmosphere. There is no strict dress code, so feel free to come as you are, whether you're dressed up or in casual attire.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is famously vibrant and quirky, thanks to its unique decor featuring vintage signs, hanging kayaks, and a live cockatoo. It's a lively pub with a great local feel.
Yes, the pub often features live music and has a renowned comedy club, 'Mic in Stand,' every Friday night. They also have arcade games for some added fun.
While they have a resident cockatoo, it's generally best to assume pets are not allowed inside the pub unless specifically stated for an event. It's always a good idea to call ahead and confirm.
Yes, the Friend in Hand Hotel offers outdoor seating options, allowing you to enjoy the lively Glebe atmosphere while you dine or drink.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
They offer a bistro menu with a range of classic pub fare. Popular items include veal schnitzels, spice bags, steaks, and pasta dishes.
The menu typically includes a variety of dishes, and while specific vegetarian or vegan options aren't always highlighted, pub menus often have adaptable choices. It's recommended to ask the staff about current offerings.
Many visitors highly recommend the veal schnitzel, often described as fantastic. The Irish spice bag is also a popular, though sometimes divisive, choice.
Reviews suggest that the food offers good value for money, with generous portion sizes and quality ingredients, especially for dishes like the schnitzel.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire pub is a photo opportunity! Focus on the unique decor like hanging kayaks, vintage signs, and of course, the friendly cockatoo. The comedy club stage also makes for interesting shots.
Yes, visitors are encouraged to take photos to capture the unique atmosphere. However, be mindful of other patrons and ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the evening can get lively with comedy and music, daytime visits offer a more relaxed environment. The bistro menu has kid-friendly options, and the arcade games can provide entertainment. It's advisable to check if any specific events or promotions are happening that might make the atmosphere less suitable for young children.
😂 Comedy Enthusiasts
It's recommended to book tickets in advance if possible, as these nights can get popular. Arriving a bit early can also help you secure a good vantage point for the show. The pub's atmosphere, combined with the live comedy, makes for a memorable night out.
📸 Instagrammers & Photographers
Make sure your phone or camera is charged! The vibrant colors and unusual elements make for highly shareable content. Consider visiting during off-peak hours if you want to capture the decor without too many people in the background.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Quirky Charm of Friend in Hand Hotel
The pub also boasts a live cockatoo as a resident, adding another layer of unexpected charm. This feathered friend is often noted for its friendly demeanor and becomes a talking point for patrons. Beyond the visual spectacle, the Friend in Hand offers a welcoming atmosphere with friendly service, making it a comfortable spot to relax and soak in the surroundings.
While the decor is a major draw, the Friend in Hand is also a hub for entertainment. It's particularly famous for its 'Mic in Stand' comedy club held every Friday night, which has gained a legendary reputation. This makes it a prime spot for a fun-filled evening of laughter and good times.
Culinary Delights and Entertainment
Another popular, though sometimes polarizing, menu item is the Irish spice bag. While some find it delicious, others have had mixed experiences, noting dry chicken in some instances. The curry sauce accompanying it generally receives positive remarks. Beyond these, the menu includes other pub classics like steaks and pasta, catering to a range of tastes.
When it comes to entertainment, the Friday night comedy shows are a major draw. The 'Mic in Stand' comedy club provides a platform for both established and emerging comedians, ensuring a night of laughter. The pub also occasionally features live music, adding to its appeal as a versatile entertainment venue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit