When you think of Sydney, your mind probably goes straight to the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, or those jaw-dropping beaches like Bondi.

But let me let you in on a little secret—the city’s food scene is just as iconic. In fact, for me, discovering Sydney restaurants was one of the highlights of visiting this vibrant city.

The first time I sat at a waterside restaurant in Circular Quay, watching ferries glide past while digging into fresh seafood, I realized Sydney isn’t just about sights—it’s about tastes too. From bustling Chinatown to hidden laneway gems, Sydney feels like one giant open-air food festival.

So, if you’re wondering where to eat in Sydney (and let’s be real, that’s the first thing most of us want to know when we travel 😅), this guide is for you.

Let’s take a foodie journey through the city’s best bites, from casual cafes to fine dining icons.

Table of Contents

1. Quay Restaurant

Review: 4.4
Location: Upper Level Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9251 5600
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Friday: 5:30–8:30 PM
- Saturday: 12–1:30 PM, 5:30–8:30 PM
- Sunday: 5:30–8:30 PM

Quay Restaurant is one of Sydney’s most iconic dining spots, offering spectacular harbor views paired with an innovative menu. Known for its artistic approach to Australian cuisine, Quay provides guests with a fine dining experience like no other.

The intimate atmosphere, paired with Chef Peter Gilmore’s creative dishes, makes it ideal for special occasions.

From delicate seafood to beautifully plated mains, every dish feels like a masterpiece. Quay’s location at The Rocks makes it a must-visit for food lovers in Sydney.

2. Cho Cho San

Review: 4.5
Location: 73 Macleay St, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9331 6601
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:30 PM–12 AM
- Friday to Sunday: 12 PM–12 AM

Cho Cho San brings a fresh and modern take on Japanese dining to Sydney. Located in Potts Point, this stylish restaurant offers everything from perfectly crafted sushi to bold izakaya-style dishes.

Its lively atmosphere makes it a fantastic spot for both casual dining and group celebrations.

Guests often rave about the high-quality ingredients and playful cocktails that complement the menu. Whether you’re dropping in for dinner or late-night bites, Cho Cho San delivers a flavorful and memorable dining experience.

3. Hubert

Review: 4.6
Location: 15 Bligh St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9232 0881
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 12 PM–12 AM
- Friday & Saturday: 12 PM–12:30 AM
- Sunday: 12 PM–12 AM

Restaurant Hubert is a Parisian-style brasserie hidden in Sydney’s CBD, offering a charming escape with old-world charm. The dim lighting, live jazz, and elegant interiors create an atmosphere that feels straight out of France.

Diners enjoy rich French classics like duck, steak, and fine wines, all served with flair. Known for its romantic yet lively vibe, Hubert is perfect for date nights or group dinners.

With impeccable service and a buzzing ambience, it’s one of Sydney’s most memorable dining spots.

4. NOMAD Sydney

Review: 4.6
Location: 16 Foster St, Surry Hills NSW 2010, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9280 3395
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: 5:30–9:30 PM
- Wednesday & Thursday: 12–2:30 PM, 5:30–9:30 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12–2:30 PM, 5:30–10 PM
- Sunday: 12–2:30 PM, 6–8:30 PM

NOMAD Sydney is a stylish restaurant in Surry Hills celebrated for its bold flavors and wood-fired cooking. Using locally sourced Australian produce, the menu draws inspiration from Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisines.

Diners enjoy everything from house-made charcuterie to inventive small plates and mains bursting with flavor.

The chic interiors and open kitchen add to the vibrant dining experience. Whether for a leisurely lunch or lively dinner, NOMAD offers a blend of creativity, warmth, and culinary excellence in every dish.

5. Bennelong

Review: 4.5
Location: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9240 8000
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 5:30–8:45 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 12–2 PM, 5:30–8:45 PM

Bennelong is Sydney’s iconic fine dining restaurant located inside the world-famous Opera House. With stunning views and an atmosphere of elegance, it offers modern Australian cuisine that highlights the country’s finest produce.

Guests enjoy beautifully plated dishes that celebrate local flavors, from seafood to specialty meats.

Dining at Bennelong feels like a true cultural experience, blending Sydney’s architectural marvel with exquisite food. Perfect for special occasions, this restaurant captures the essence of Australia in every detail.

6. Ester Restaurant

Review: 4.6
Location: 46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
Phone: +61 2 8068 8279
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 6 PM–12 AM
- Friday: 6 PM–12 AM
- Saturday: 12–5 PM, 6 PM–12 AM
- Sunday: 12–6 PM

Ester Restaurant in Chippendale is known for its inventive approach to dining, where bold flavors meet simple yet refined dishes.

The restaurant uses a wood-fired oven as the heart of its kitchen, giving meals a unique smoky touch. With a modern, minimalist interior, Ester focuses on delivering food that speaks for itself.

Regulars love its creative small plates, hearty mains, and natural wine list. It’s a top choice for those who appreciate contemporary dining with character and flair.

7. Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel

Review: 4.6
Location: 161 Underwood St, Paddington NSW 2021, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9167 3703
Hours:
- Monday to Wednesday: 5–11 PM
- Thursday to Sunday: 12–11 PM

Saint Peter is a seafood-focused restaurant located within The Grand National Hotel in Paddington. Celebrated for its dedication to sustainably sourced fish, the menu highlights the best of Australian waters.

Chef Josh Niland is known for his innovative whole-fish approach, where every part of the catch is utilized creatively.

Guests enjoy refined dishes that showcase freshness and sustainability. With a cozy yet refined atmosphere, Saint Peter has become a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts in Sydney.

8. Lankan Filling Station

Review: 4.2
Location: Ground Floor/58 Riley St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia
Phone: +61 2 8542 9936
Hours:
- Monday to Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5–10 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 12–10 PM
- Sunday: Closed

Lankan Filling Station brings the vibrant flavors of Sri Lanka to Sydney. Known for its authentic curries, hoppers, and fragrant spices, the restaurant offers a casual and colorful dining experience.

The menu is designed for sharing, making it perfect for groups looking to explore bold flavors together.

With friendly service and an approachable vibe, it’s a great place to discover dishes that blend tradition with creativity. For those craving something different in Sydney, Lankan Filling Station is a standout.

9. Fred’s

Review: 4.4
Location: 380 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9114 7331
Hours:
- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday to Thursday: 4–11 PM
- Friday & Saturday: 12–11 PM
- Sunday: 12–11 PM

Fred’s in Paddington offers a unique farm-to-table dining experience where fresh, seasonal produce shines. The open-kitchen design creates an intimate connection between guests and chefs, making every meal feel personal.

The menu changes frequently, celebrating the best of local ingredients. With its rustic yet elegant charm, Fred’s is perfect for both casual outings and special occasions.

The warm service and carefully curated wine list make it a favorite for those seeking wholesome yet refined dining in Sydney.

10. Yellow

Review: 4.7
Location: 57 Macleay St, Potts Point NSW 2011, Australia
Phone: +61 2 9332 2344
Hours:
- Monday & Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday to Friday: 6–10 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 12–3 PM, 6–10 PM

Yellow is a modern vegetarian restaurant located in Potts Point, redefining plant-based dining in Sydney. With a menu designed to highlight seasonal vegetables in creative and unexpected ways, it appeals to both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.

The minimalist interiors and relaxed atmosphere set the stage for beautifully plated dishes that burst with flavor.

Yellow’s innovative approach has earned it high praise and loyal fans. For those seeking a stylish and satisfying vegetarian experience, Yellow is a must-try destination.

Conclusion: Eating Your Way Through Sydney

So, what’s the verdict? Sydney restaurants are more than just places to eat—they’re an experience. From fine dining icons with million-dollar views to casual laneway joints that only locals know about, Sydney’s food scene is as diverse and vibrant as the city itself.

For me, the real magic of eating in Sydney was the variety. One night I was sipping wine at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Opera House, and the next day I was grabbing dumplings in Chinatown. That’s Sydney—laid-back yet world-class, casual yet unforgettable.

So here’s my advice: come hungry. Try a little bit of everything. And don’t forget to snap some foodie pics along the way (because let’s be real, if you didn’t Instagram your Bondi brunch, did it even happen? 😉).