Top 6 Places to Eat in Sydney

Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
22/08/2025
Stunning night view of Sydney Opera House and city skyline with vibrant lights.
Nishess Shakya, Pexels

Sydney's culinary scene is a vibrant and diverse tapestry, boasting everything from iconic fine dining to bustling cheap eats, catering to global foodies, romantic couples, and families alike.

1. Bennelong

Cuisine: Modern Australian

Dining at Bennelong is an unforgettable experience, nestled within the architectural marvel of the Sydney Opera House. The menu, crafted by acclaimed Chef Peter Gilmore, celebrates Australian produce with exquisite dishes. The atmosphere feels grand, perfect for a special occasion, offering unparalleled views of the harbour. Opt for the three-course menu to truly immerse in its culinary artistry.

Price: Approximately AUD $210+ per person for a three-course menu (excluding drinks)

Getting There: Located at the Sydney Opera House, it is walking distance from Circular Quay train station and ferry terminal. Taxis are readily available in the area.

2. Saint Peter

Cuisine: Sustainable Seafood

My visit to Saint Peter was a revelation in seafood dining. Chef Josh Niland's innovative approach to Australian seafood is truly game-changing, showcasing entire fish with various techniques. The ambiance is refined yet focused on the food, making it ideal for those who appreciate a unique and sustainable culinary journey. Expect a meticulously crafted tasting menu that consistently surprises and delights.

Price: Approximately AUD $190+ per person for a tasting menu (excluding drinks)

Getting There: Located in Paddington, it's a short taxi ride (approx. AUD $15-25) from Sydney CBD. Bus routes also serve the Paddington area.

3. AALIA

Cuisine: Refined Middle Eastern / North African with Australian influences

AALIA offers a sophisticated take on Middle Eastern and North African flavours, infused with Australian touches. The setting is luxurious and stylish, making it a great choice for an elegant evening. I particularly enjoyed how each dish tells a story, representing a specific region or era. The a la carte menu allows for exploration, with standout dishes like quail and king prawn skewers.

Price: Approximately AUD $90-150+ per person (a la carte, excluding drinks)

Getting There: Situated in Martin Place, it's easily accessible by train to Martin Place Station, or a short walk from Wynyard and Town Hall stations. Taxis are available in the CBD.

4. Pellegrino 2000

Cuisine: Authentic Italian

Stepping into Pellegrino 2000 felt like discovering a charming trattoria straight out of Rome. This Surry Hills spot offers some of Sydney's most authentic Italian dishes, with a buzzing atmosphere and excellent service. The pasta, especially the pappardelle with truss tomatoes and stracciatella, is a must-try. It's a fantastic choice for a leisurely dinner with friends or a romantic evening without the formality of fine dining.

Price: Approximately AUD $60-90 per person (excluding drinks)

Getting There: Located in Surry Hills, it's a pleasant walk from Central Station (approx. 15-20 minutes) or a short bus or taxi ride from the CBD (approx. AUD $10-18).

5. Mamak

Cuisine: Malaysian Street Food

Mamak is a lively and iconic spot for Malaysian street food that I always recommend. The open kitchen lets you watch chefs expertly stretching roti, which arrives at your table perfectly crispy and fluffy, served with flavourful curries and spicy sambal. Their satay skewers are also incredibly tender and delicious. It's a casual, bustling environment perfect for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly tasty meal.

Price: Approximately AUD $20-35 per person

Getting There: The Haymarket location is a short walk from Town Hall Station or Museum Station. Easily accessible by public transport in the CBD.

6. 1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle

Cuisine: Chinese Noodles (Lanzhou Beef Noodle Soup)

For a comforting and hearty meal that won't break the bank, 1919 Lanzhou Beef Noodle is a gem. I love watching the noodles being hand-stretched to order, ensuring incredible freshness and texture. The beef noodle soup, rich with aromatic broth and tender beef slices, is wonderfully flavourful and can be customised with your preferred noodle type and spice level. It’s a perfect spot for a quick, satisfying, and cheap eat.

Price: Approximately AUD $15-25 per person

Getting There: With various locations across Sydney, many are centrally located and easily accessible by public transport (e.g., near Town Hall or in Haymarket).

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