Sydney’s dining scene has something for every taste. From waterfront venues to local favourites, explore the 10 best Sydney’s restaurants and plan your next delicious meal.
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Toggle1. Saint Peter, Paddington

Saint Peter, led by chef Josh Niland, is one of Australia’s standout seafood restaurants, located in Sydney. Known for its sustainable cooking, the menu features exceptional dishes like coral trout noodle soup and the yellowfin tuna cheeseburger. Every meal celebrates Australia’s rich seafood heritage.
Accessibility: Located in the Grand National Hotel, the venue offers step-free access and attentive service.
Must-Try: The nine-course tasting menu showcases Chef Niland’s innovative approach to Australian seafood.
Location: 161 Underwood St., Paddington
2. Sean’s Panorama, Bondi

Sean’s Panorama is a beloved coastal dining spot located on Bondi Beach. Known for its warm ambiance and a menu inspired by fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant blends simplicity with sophistication. Diners can enjoy comforting dishes like perfectly roasted chicken, seasonal fruit desserts, and farm-to-table creations that highlight the best of local produce.
Accessibility: Sean’s Panorama is fully wheelchair-accessible, ensuring a welcoming and inclusive dining experience for all. It also offers a BYO option, adding a personal touch to your meal.
Must-Try Dish: The roast chicken is a standout, featuring tender meat accompanied by vibrant, flavourful vegetables that showcase the restaurant’s commitment to quality.
Location: 270 Campbell Parade, North Bondi
3. Cafe Paci, Newtown

Cafe Paci is a standout dining destination in the vibrant neighbourhood of Newtown, helmed by renowned Chef Pasi Petänen. This restaurant masterfully blends European culinary techniques with bold, creative twists to deliver a truly unique experience.
The menu features inventive dishes such as ox tongue tacos and potato dumplings with trout XO, earning Cafe Paci a reputation as a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts seeking something extraordinary.
Accessibility: The restaurant is fully wheelchair-accessible, offering a welcoming environment for all guests. Attentive service ensures every diner enjoys a seamless and memorable visit.
Must-Try Dish: Indulge in the carrot sorbet with sticky licorice cake—a dessert that delights with its unexpected flavours and unforgettable finish.
Location: 131 King Street, Newtown
4. Firedoor, Surry Hills

Firedoor redefines wood-fired cooking with its innovative approach and dedication to showcasing bold, smoky flavours. Chef Lennox Hastie creates magic by using simple, high-quality ingredients transformed by open flames. Signature dishes like dry-aged beef ribs and wood-roasted mushrooms are prepared with precision, offering a dining experience that highlights the beauty of fire in cooking.
Accessibility: Firedoor ensures a welcoming experience for all diners, featuring wheelchair accessibility and a team of attentive staff ready to assist with any needs.
Must-Try Dish: Opt for the five-course chef’s menu, a curated feast that takes you on a journey through Firedoor’s signature flame-cooked creations, delivering unforgettable and perfectly balanced flavours.
Location: 23-33 Mary Street, Surry Hills
5. Bennelong, Sydney Opera House

Bennelong delivers an exquisite fine-dining experience beneath the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House. Led by acclaimed Chef Peter Gilmore, the menu highlights Australia’s finest local ingredients. Dishes like golden beetroot salad and mud crab cavatelli showcase a perfect blend of creativity and elegance, offering diners a true taste of modern Australian cuisine.
Accessibility: Bennelong ensures a seamless experience for all guests, featuring wheelchair accessibility, elevators, and convenient valet parking to accommodate diverse needs.
Must-Try Dish: Indulge in the three-course menu, which offers a curated selection of Bennelong’s most celebrated dishes, allowing you to savour the best of what this iconic restaurant has to offer.
Location: Bennelong Point, Sydney Opera House
6. The Gidley, Sydney CBD

The Gidley delivers a blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, making it a standout dining spot in Sydney’s CBD. Its menu celebrates classic favourites with a luxurious twist. Begin your experience with a prawn cocktail or creamy burrata before indulging in the star of the show—Riverine ribeye, cooked to perfection.
Complement your meal with a perfectly crafted martini or a selection from their extensive wine list for a truly refined evening.
Accessibility: The Gidley is designed for all guests, featuring a step-free entry to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience.
Must-Try Dish: The signature burger, with its juicy patty and gourmet toppings, is a must for anyone seeking bold, flavour-packed comfort food.
Location: Basement, 161 King Street, Sydney CBD
7. Totti’s, Bondi

Totti’s brings a slice of Italy to Bondi with its relaxed atmosphere and focus on simple, bold flavours. Known for its signature wood-fired bread, served warm and fluffy, it’s the perfect start to a memorable meal. Pair it with a selection of antipasti, including creamy burrata, fresh tomatoes, and prosciutto, to create a delicious sharing experience.
The main menu features Italian classics, from hearty pastas to perfectly grilled meats, making it a favourite for families and groups. The open-air courtyard adds to the lively ambiance, making every visit feel like a celebration.
Accessibility: Totti’s is fully equipped with ramp access and spacious seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all.
Must-Try: Begin with the famous wood-fired bread, and follow it with a spread of antipasti and your choice of Italian staples for a satisfying meal.
Location: 283 Bondi Road, Bondi
8. Quay, The Rocks

Quay offers a world-class fine dining experience that seamlessly combines culinary artistry with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour. Under the expert guidance of Chef Peter Gilmore, the restaurant delivers innovative dishes that highlight Australian ingredients and global influences.
The renowned eight-course tasting menu takes diners on a culinary journey, showcasing the best of Australian cuisine. Delicacies include the iconic White Coral dessert—a masterpiece in both flavour and presentation—and exquisitely prepared seafood. Each course reflects Gilmore’s skill and creativity, making Quay a must-visit destination for food lovers.
Accessibility: Quay is designed for all guests, with step-free access, elevators, and conveniently located nearby parking. The attentive staff ensures a seamless and inclusive experience.
Must-Try Dish: The eight-course tasting menu is a must for those seeking an unforgettable exploration of Australian cuisine. Each dish pairs beautifully with selections from Quay’s impressive wine list, offering the perfect complement to your dining experience.
Location: Upper level Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks
9. Aalia, Sydney CBD

Aalia redefines Middle Eastern dining with a modern twist, offering bold flavours and innovative interpretations of classic dishes. Helmed by Chef Paul Farag, the menu showcases creativity and finesse with standout options like Murray cod masgouf—a delicate, smoky fish preparation—and the rich, tender lamb neck shawarma.
Every dish tells a story, blending traditional roots with contemporary flair, making Aalia a unique culinary destination in Sydney.
Accessibility: Conveniently located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD, Aalia provides a fully wheelchair-accessible experience, ensuring comfort for all guests.
Must-Try Dish: The rose petal muhammara, served with warm khorasan pita, is a flavourful and aromatic highlight that perfectly embodies Aalia’s inventive approach.
Location: 25 Martin Place, Sydney CBD
10. Kiln, Surry Hills

Kiln pairs wood-fired culinary mastery with panoramic views of Sydney. Located on the 18th floor of the Ace Hotel, this rooftop dining destination offers a vibrant cuisine crafted by Chef Mitch Orr, who delivers a menu that is both creative and approachable.
Signature dishes like Jatz crackers with smoked butter and anchovy offer a delightful mix of nostalgia and innovation. With its relaxed yet elevated atmosphere, Kiln is perfect for casual dinners, special occasions, or simply enjoying the stunning cityscape.
Accessibility: The restaurant offers convenient elevator access and thoughtfully arranged seating, ensuring a comfortable dining experience for all guests.
Must-Try Dish: The Jatz crackers with smoked butter and anchovy are a surprising favourite, blending simplicity with bold, balanced flavours.
Location: Level 18, 53 Foy Lane, Surry Hills (Ace Hotel)
Insider Tips for Dining in Sydney
- Best Times to Dine: Midweek for quieter experiences and weekends for lively atmospheres.
- Booking Advice: Reserve months in advance for popular restaurants.
- Dietary Preferences: Many venues cater to vegetarian, vegan, and allergen-friendly options. Call ahead to confirm availability.
Conclusion
Sydney restaurants celebrate Australian culinary excellence with innovative chefs, diverse cuisines, and breathtaking locations. From the elegance of fine dining at Quay to the cozy charm of neighbourhood gems like Cafe Paci, the city offers something for every palate. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a casual diner, Sydney’s Australian-inspired culinary scene is sure to impress.
What’s Next?
After exploring Sydney’s culinary delights, dive into the city’s vibrant nightlife with our guide to the Best Nightclubs in Sydney. From rooftop venues to underground dance floors, discover where to find the city’s best beats and unforgettable party vibes.
Planning a stay? Check out our list of Top Budget Hotels in Sydney for affordable and comfortable accommodations. Whether you’re in the heart of the CBD or near Sydney’s iconic beaches, we’ve got options to suit every traveler.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most iconic restaurant in Sydney?
Quay and Bennelong offer iconic views and exceptional dining.
Which restaurant offers casual but memorable meals?
Cafe Paci blends gourmet dishes with a relaxed vibe.
Where can I find the best seafood in Sydney?
Saint Peter and Firedoor are the top seafood destinations.
What’s a must-try Italian restaurant in Sydney?
Totti’s is perfect for wood-fired bread and Italian dishes.
Are there budget-friendly top restaurants in Sydney?
Yes! Porkfat and Cafe Paci deliver outstanding food at reasonable prices.