Depends where you are based and how you will get around (car, bus, train, light rail, ferry).
Might be worth checking out:
Union Hotel, Newtown - can get to it by train, bus, car
Bitter Phew, Darlinghurst - train, bus, car
The Noble Hops, Redfern - train, bus, car
Royal Albert Hotel, Surry Hills - train, bus, car
The above are for beer.
Shady Pines Saloon, Darlinghurst is alright to hang out in.
Baxter Inn, City, is very good for whisky
Akasha Brewery, Five Dock - bus or car if you want a brewery option.