The Midnight Shift (Closed Permanently)

Come as you are for a fun night with a touch of sleaze

There's no denying it. The Shift has a reputation. Guys are here to pick up, and a good half of those guys are Asian, or sliding towards 60. But the bar attracts all types, helped by its constant evolution (upstairs in particular, seems to have a hard time choosing a theme and sticking with it) and no-attitude atmosphere. Probably Oxford Street's sleaziest non-SOP venue, but really, what's wrong with that? Security are tough, but polite and fair, and the drag shows are among the best on the strip.

The last honest gay club?

As the locals will tell you, The Shift has a rep for a clientele of "Chopsticks and Walking Sticks." Like all generalisations, that's only partly true. Certainly in the past, it has catered to an Asian and older crowd, as well as (as one friend puts it) the aesthetically challenged. But now it has a much broader clientele and is a much better representation of gay Sydney. Why? Because it has remained gay. While other bars and clubs on the strip have had to contend with growing straight patrons, the Shift has stayed a thoroughly gay space. But more than that, on the weekends, the crowds are large, loud and friendly; the music a slightly dull, but fun collection of House favourites. One of the best bars on the strip.

The Shift :P

The place is usually packed & teaming with boys on a friday & saturday night, the later the better. Not restricted to one genre, a top spot for all the hang out - try the saddle bar upstairs.

Excellent bar

In my opinion Midnight Shift is the best bar on Oxford St. Great music, fun drag shows, friendly crowds, especially if you like the asian boys. Friday and Saturday nights are packed. A new leather bar just opened upstairs that's dark and fun (with free peanuts!). HIGHLY recommend by this Yank!

Great bar

Shift is great, and there is a leather bad upstairs...