You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to eating well in Sydney, from the cheap and cheerful to the humble bistro, plus some of the best restaurants in the country (and the world). Here is a list of some of the best fine dining experiences you can have in this fine city.
Quay is often found on many ‘Best Restaurants’ lists around Australia and the world. It is located in the heart of Sydney, Circular Quay, where it boasts amazing views across the harbour, the famous Harbour Bridge and the beautiful Sydney Opera House. It has become known for its famous mud crab congee, which has been on the menu for over a decade, and for good reason – it is a dish you will never forget!
With views spanning over the ocean and white tablecloths, Sean’s Panorama is Bondi’s answer to fine dining – without the pretension. Forget about wearing heels or loafers here, sandals and sneakers are more appropriate. All ingredients used are sourced fresh from the restaurant’s farm, so the menu changes daily. There are a few items that appear on the menu regularly, like ricotta-stuffed zucchini flowers, and buttery roasted chicken with a cream of corn sauce.
Since opening 16 years ago, Café Sydney has become a must-visit destination for tourists and, thanks to its impressive location, a favourite lunch spot among CBD suits wining and dining clients. There is no doubt Café Sydney is sure to impress – the entrance is as grand as the restaurant’s views across the Harbour.First, you step into the beautifully restored Customs House building, then stroll across the glass floor, which houses an impressive model of the city – the perfect prelude for what diners are to enjoy upstairs. Then, you’re whisked up five floors via an elevator to the restaurant, which boasts sweeping views of the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge and the stunning blue water in Circular Quay below.
Icebergs has one of the best venues in the city. Nestled into the headland on the southern end of Bondi Beach inside an iconic white building, Icebergs is one of Sydney’s finest restaurants. Both locals and tourists come here to enjoy Italian-inspired cuisine and refreshing drinks after a day of sun, surf and sand. Paying homage to its location, the menu features fresh seafood, like the scampi risotto with asparagus, and the house-made seaweed tagliatelle with crab meat, tomato and basil. Meat lovers will keel over with excitement when tasting the full rack of lamb and the 120-day grain-fed T-Bone steak, weighing a whopping 1.2 kilos.
ARIA is the brainchild of one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs, Matt Moran. The food is presented with meticulous precision and looks almost as good as the view of the Harbour outside. Using only the best ingredients, Matt and his team whip up incredible dishes across four courses from an à la carte menu. However, the best way to experience the food is by ordering the chef’s seasons tasting menu. Wine lovers will also love this venue, considering the wine list has been placed in the Hall of Fame as part of the Australian Wine List of the Year Awards.
