Sydney has some of the finest dining places in the world. For the best restaurants in Sydney, follow this guide & find some good places to have a meal. From today’s fresh catch of fish to excellent pasta, these places have it all under the sun. We have chosen the top 10 from Best restaurants in Sydney up-to-date ratings and awards until July 2025.
The finest restaurants in Sydney include fine dining with relaxed settings, relying on fresh locally sourced ingredients. You’ll make your holiday unique whether you’re local or a tourist if you give them a try.
Why Visit the Best Restaurants in Sydney?
The food scene in Sydney is quite diverse. You walk into almost any spot and bam you’re hit with this explosion of colors and flavors. Chefs here aren’t messing around; they’re grabbing the freshest stuff from, like, backyard farms and whatever’s swimming around the coast that morning. Some of these places have trophies up the wazoo for their insane creativity and, honestly, the kind of service that makes you wonder if you accidentally became royalty. Although the prices range from moderate to high, but honestly? Totally worth the splurge. The chefs are throwing out fresh flavors left and right, but not getting all fancy just for the sake of it.
Now, let’s dive into the real stuff: our absolute favorite restaurants in Sydney right now.
1. Quay
Tucked away in The Rocks, Quay’s basically got front-row seats to the harbor. This place is legendary for its modern Australian cuisine. Their must-try dishes include poached prawns plus desserts that look like they belong in an art gallery. Honestly, if you’re trying to flex for a special occasion in Sydney, Quay’s the spot for you.
2. Aria Restaurant Sydney
Right alongside the Opera House, Aria offers refined meals with a focus on local seasonal produce. Have the fresh herb beef or fresh seafood dishes. It’s one of the best restaurants in Sydney because of quality service and astonishing city views.
3. Sixpenny
Sixpenny in Stanmore is a small, intimate restaurant with tasting menus that differ seasonally. Roasted vegetables and fermented carrots are some of the best bits here. This little gem is one of Sydney’s best eateries for tasty & fresh food.
4. Bentley Restaurant & Bar
In the CBD, Bentley adds a European vibe to local taste. Try signature items such as the octopus grilled or vegetable-based dishes. It’s one of the best restaurants in Sydney for their well-maintained collection of wine and casual vibe.
5. Saint Peter
Paddington’s Saint Peter is entirely focused on sustainable seafood. Chef Josh Niland invents new dishes such as fish charcuterie. It’s an award winning Sydney restaurant for its innovative use of the last bits of the fish.
6. Ester Restaurant and Bar
Chippendale’s Ester features wood-fired cooking for robust tastes in their dishes. Blood sausage or roasted vegetables are a must-try. It is one of the best restaurants in Sydney for its lively, sharing plates.
7. Firedoor
At Surry Hills, Firedoor prepares everything in an open fire setting. Vegetables and steaks are given a nice barbecue & smoky flavor here. It is one of the best Sydney restaurants for all meat lovers.
8. Mr Wong
Mr Wong’s isn’t your average Cantonese joint it’s got that classic flair. Their dim sums? Absolute bangers. Roast duck? melt-in-your-mouth good. The place is always buzzing, too. You walk in and it’s packed with everyone: city suits, backpackers, foodies alike. It’s not just one of the best spots in Sydney – it’s the kind of place you actually want to brag about hitting up.
9. Ragazzi Wine and Pasta
Honestly, if you’re wandering around the CBD and craving a legit Italian meal, Ragazzi’s where you wanna be. People rave about their Italian wines and homemade pasta. Even the simple stuff, like their cacio e pepe? Absolute knockout. If you crave the real Italian taste , this spot should be at the top of your list.
10. Cafe Paci
Newtown’s Cafe Paci blends Finnish and Mexican cuisine in playful manners. Enjoy the carrot sorbet or spicy tacos here. This hippie restaurant completes our collection of the best restaurants in Sydney.
Sydney’s food scene absolutely hits you with the best flavours & tastes. You’ve got fancy joints with killer harbor views , and then those tucked-away spots that give you authentic vibes. Honestly, it’s hard not to brag Sydney just gets food right. Grab a fork, Bon appétit!
