Chinese Laundry

Chinese Laundry: an underground Sydney club reborn

Hidden beneath the Slip Inn in Sydney’s city centre, Chinese Laundry is one of the most enduring names in the Australian electronic music scene. The legendary underground venue closed during the pandemic in 2020, but this was only an extended pause: Chinese Laundry returned in June 2024 after a four-year hiatus. Today, the club is once again welcoming dancers into its dark rooms for nights dedicated to house, techno, bass, jungle and other adventurous electronic sounds.

Chinese Laundry is not a specifically gay nightclub. Its crowd is mixed, music-focused and generally welcoming, making it a possible addition to an LGBTQ+ night out for travelers who care more about the DJ than labels or themed entertainment. Gay visitors looking for drag shows, pop anthems or a predominantly male crowd should explore Sydney’s dedicated queer venues around Oxford Street instead. Those who prefer underground beats, a less commercial atmosphere and dancing until the early morning may find Chinese Laundry far more tempting.

The club has occupied a distinctive place in Sydney nightlife since the 1990s, becoming known for giving both local talent and international DJs a serious platform. Artists associated with its history include Flume, Dom Dolla, Sasha, Goldie and Jeff Mills. Following its reopening, the musical direction has continued to favor credible club culture, with resident selectors, local collectives, label showcases, emerging artists and established guests sharing the program. It is therefore wise to check the lineup before attending, as the sound and atmosphere can vary considerably from one event to the next.

The renovated venue retains the intimate, subterranean character that made it famous. Updated DJ booths, minimalist lighting and powerful Martin Audio sound systems create an immersive environment where the music takes priority. Its different rooms allow the night to move between styles and intensities, while the low ceilings and underground layout contribute to the feeling of being inside a proper rave rather than a glossy mainstream nightclub. Chinese Laundry also encourages guests to stay present on the dance floor instead of experiencing the entire evening through a phone camera.

The club is located at 1 Slip Street, beneath the Slip Inn and just off Sussex Street. It usually opens on Friday and Saturday nights, with events commonly running from 9 pm until 4 am. Opening times, ticket prices and programs may change according to the event, so checking the official schedule and buying tickets in advance is recommended. Popular nights can sell out, and arriving earlier may make entry smoother.

Dress for dancing rather than red-carpet theatrics: stylish casual clothing and comfortable shoes fit the setting better than an elaborate clubbing look. As at any busy nightlife venue, respectful behavior and awareness of personal belongings are essential. Chinese Laundry is a strong choice for LGBTQ+ travelers who want to discover Sydney beyond the usual gay circuit. It may not fly the rainbow flag as its main identity, but beneath the city streets, the music creates its own community.