The race to be named Metropolitan Hotel of the Year at this year’s gala Australian Hotel Association NSW Awards for Excellence has been narrowed down to just a dozen of the city’s top establishments.

Pubs from Penrith to Cronulla are in line for the sought-after title – given to the metropolitan Sydney hotel which stands out across all award categories.

Independent judges evaluate everything from food and beverage, ambience and overall presentation of the hotel to community support and customer service.

The 2025 metro finalists are Barangaroo House, Barangaroo, Bligh Park House, South Windsor, Charing Cross Hotel, Waverley, Cruise Bar and Restaurant, Circular Quay West, General Gordon Hotel, Sydenham, Golden Barley Hotel, Enmore, Humphrey’s Hotel, Hurstville, Parc Pavilion, Cronulla, The Dry Dock Public House and Dining Room, Balmain, The International, Sydney, The Log Cabin, Penrith and The Red Lion Hotel, Rozelle.

AHA NSW CEO John Whelan said the annual awards had more than 881 entries this year across 47 categories and the standard was again high.

“Sydney has some of the best pubs in the world and these 12 hotels are a showcase of what modern hotels offer,” said Mr Whelan.

“These pubs have restaurant quality food, great beer and wine, a family-friendly atmosphere and boast some of the best rooftops and beer gardens in the country.

“I wish them all the best of luck.”

The winners will be named at a gala ceremony this Tuesday, 28 October 2025 at Royal Randwick Racecourse in Sydney.

A full list of finalists for this year’s AHA NSW Awards for Excellence can be found at www.ahaawardsnsw.com.au

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