Sydney BARS &
RESTAURANTS
SYDNEY HAS AN EXCITING RESTAURANT SCENE AND IS WHERE MY OWN CAREER IN HOSPITALITY BEGAN.
FROM FINE DINING AT WATERFRONT VENUES TO HIDDEN COCKTAIL BARS, ​SYDNEY KNOWS HOW TO WINE & DINE!
SUSTAINABLE & ETHICAL DINING
Sydney's ethical dining scene is thriving, with more restaurants prioritising sustainable sourcing, regenerative farming, zero-waste practices and utilising native Australian ingredients. This supports local farmers and Indigenous food traditions. These approaches are redefining modern Australian cuisine. What are you waiting for? Make a reservation!
SAINT PETER
Chef Josh Niland focuses on using every part of the fish, including the skin, bones and eyes to minimise waste and to showcase innovative techniques, The restaurant sources line caught, sustainably harvested seafood from responsible Australian fisheries, avoiding over-fished species. They even dry-age fish to minimise waste!
Yellow is 100% plant-based, sourcing organic ingredients from local farms. The restaurant also emphasises minimal food waste by utilising every part of every ingredient from root to stem. Additionally, its wine list features natural, organic and biodynamic wines, further supporting sustainable agriculture.
Fred's is a renowned paddock-to-plate restaurant and adopts a stong commitment to minimal waste, local produce and regenerative farming practises. Their menu changes regularly with seasonal availability, reducing reliance on imported goods. The kitchen utilise whole-animal-butchery and use open flame, energy efficient cookery.
Quite possibly the most instagrammable place in Sydney but for good reason - it's environmentally conscious. Located in a former-industrial precinct, the venue has been transformed into a lush garden oasis setting with a paddock-to-plate approach, organic gardens, composting waste practises, ethically sourced coffee and more!
DAISY'S TOP PICKS
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Make a reservation at these, you won't be disappointed!
ESTER
This establishment has been recognised as one of Sydney's most influential restaurants, earning acclaim for its culinary offerings and exceptional service. Wood-fired cooking techniques showcase local and seasonal produce in a relaxed setting. Don't know what Australian cuisine is? Got to Ester. Bookings are essential.
A celebrated Sri Lankan restaurant located in Darlinghurst. Their menu is predominantly gluten free with substantial vegetarian offerings for those with dietary considerations and preferences. Menu highlight is their hoppers; a fermented rice flour pancake, often enjoyed with flavour-rich curries and sambols. Bookings are essential.
A contemporary Japanese joint located in Potts Point, offering a modern take on izakaya dining, featuring inventive dishes, designed to share. Praised for its fast pace and friendly service, Cho Cho San offer a la carte dining and set menus. Whether you're seeking a snack or a full dining experience, this is one not to miss!
Firedoor offers a unique dining experience where every dish is prepared using fire as the primary cooking method, highlighting the natural flavours of premium Australian produce. Due to it's popularity, reservations are usually required well in advance. The restaurant offers a set dining menu, that changes frequently with the seasons.
WHAT IS A CHEF'S HAT?
In Australia, a Chef's Hat is a prestigious culinary award given by the 'Australian Good Food Guide'.
Similar to Michelin Stars, the AGFG recognises excellence in food, service and overall dining experience.
​Restaurants are rated on a 20-point scale, awarded with chef's hats, every year.
1 chef's hat
15 - 16 POINTS
A restaurant of high quality.
2 chef's hats
17 - 18 POINTS
An exceptional dining experience.
3 chef's hats
19 - 20 POINTS
The best restaurants in Australia.
best COCKTAIL & ROOFTOP bars
Drink on the rooftop of a building or at a hidden speak-easy that you'd have to be told about to know about. Sit back, relax and sip on your favourite cocktails and beverages at one of Sydney's best and trendiest bars (for good reason)!
It should be called 'Definitely Sammy' as this establishment is frequently ranked among the world's best bars, serving theatrical cocktails in a 1950's inspired setting. Located at The Rocks precinct, it's a central place to meet anyone in Sydney for a drink or two before a show, or after a long dinner, before you go home. They offer a small but high-end snack menu and only open to walk-in guests, so no need to make a booking.
A distinctive cocktail bar situated in Sydney's CBD (Central Business District) known for it's speakeasy ambience and rooftop views. Entering the space of an old library, complete with leather booths and bookshelves, guests ride the elevator to their indoor lounge of the rooftop terrace, providing panoramic views of Sydney skyline surrounded by lush greenery. No need to make a reservation here either, just walk in!
A hidden gin bar, cleverly disguised behind a hair salon, known for its extensive gin collection and signature cocktails. The bar has a classic, vintage fell inside with wooden interiors, dim lighting, cozy couches and an intimate atmosphere, perfect for cocktail lovers. It's popular! Reservations recommended, especially on weekends.
Still reading and seeking a rooftop bar? Look no further than this Moroccan and Mediterranean inspired bar with adventurous cocktails, beers on tap, wine for days and stunning interior design complete with pastel lounges, woven rugs, lush greenery, umbrellas, sunshine and city views! Kasbah is available for walk-ins and reservations.
A vibrant rooftop bar and casual eatery located ontop of Hyde Park House in Darlinghurst, this little gem boasts views of the city skyline, making it a popular place for tourists and locals, particularly on a sunny day in Sydney! An ideal spot to enjoy a casual cocktail or two at sunset. Access is via a narrow staircase so limited access.
Teeny tiny venue, so small there's no seats. This one is for the margarita lovers! Its tiny shelves are stocked with hand-sourced, hand-imported, hand-made agave spirits. This local gem is a place you can drink one of a kind, one in a million and once in a lifetime spirits! Is this Sydney's best margie?
PREMIUM WATERFRONT SYDNEY DINING
EXCLUSIVE RESTAURANTS WITH PREMIUM VIEWS & PRICES TO MATCH
An iconic fine dining restaurant perched above Bondi Beach offering panoramic ocean views and modern Italian cuisine. Diners can choose between a 2 course menu, a 3 course menu or a 7 course tasting menu; depending on your special occasion and desire. This elegant dining room is a sought after destination for locals and visitors.
A relaxed yet elegant setting with floor to ceiling windows that promote the scenic harbour views of Sydney Harbour. Medeterenean inspired dishes with focus on fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients. Whether you're popping in for a causal brunch or a romantic dinner, the restaurants welcoming atmosphere makes it memorable.
A fine dining restaurant situated ON the waterfront in Rose Bay, offering panoramic views of the harbour in an affluent area of Sydney. The restaurant is family owned and operated, offering modern Australian cuisine, an extensive wine featuring over 800 wines and is known for hosting various events including celebrity gatherings.
SEEKING SOMETHING MORE CASUAL?
PREMIUM WATERFRONT VIEWS IN A MORE RELAXED SETTING
A casual but stylish local spot for cocktails, DJs, seafood and sunset! Catch the ferry to Watson's Bay on the shores of Sydney Harbour boasting multiple dining areas and bars, each offering a unique experience. The Beach Club is an expansive beer garden, the Rooftop Bar offers views to the city and the Dining Room is ideal for a date night.
This waterside cafe and kiosk at Shelley Beach, a short walk from Manly Beach, serves coastal a inspired menu, curated with fresh, local, seasonal produce, serving breakfast and lunch. The venue boasts a relaxed setting, suitable for various occasions from casual outings to special celebrations. It get's super busy, especially on a warm day!
A beachfront restaurant at the northern end of bustling Bondi Beach. Their menu focuses on fresh seafood with an array of dishes showcasing locally caught fish, shellfish and other ocean delights. With its prime beachfront position, it boasts beautiful views of Bondi beach and has a relaxed, modern feel.
RECCOMENDED
WINE BARS
PERSONALLY
Sydney's love for natural and organic wine is growing, with many bars showcasing local and international selections.
I am a local wine-snob with an interest in biodynamic & organic winemaking. Here's my favourite wine bars in Sydney.
Nestled in the heart of Paddington is a renowned wine bar with a cult following (for good reason). Celebrated for it's intimate ambiance, 10 William St. offers an eclectic selection of natural and biodynamic wines, catering to both seasoned wine enthusiasts and curious newcomers. They also serve handmade pastas and innovative Italian food.
With locations in Paddington and Newtown, P&V Merchants are distinctive bottle shops and wine bars in Sydney, specialising in natural wines, artisan spirits, craft beers and gourmet food. P&V stands for 'Piss & Vinegar' reflecting its fun, relaxed, vibrant and energetic approach to the beverage scene in Sydney. They offer tastings and classes!
A relaxed wine bar in a central location offering an extensive wine list and small plates. Sommelier Julien Dromgool focuses on organic and biodynamic varietals which compliments the restaurants commitment to quality and sustainability. The food is centred around dishes cooked over fire, designed to share in a stylish setting.
Established Italian restaurant and wine bar in the heart of Sydney's CBD (Central Business District) holds the title of Sydney's oldest wine bar, offering patrons an authentic European dining experience. The ambiance invites patrons to unwind in plush velvet booths or at the bar. Over 40 wines are served by the glass!
CHEAP & CHEERFUL
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