Sydney’s dining scene never sleeps. It’s where you can find anything from hole-in-the-wall noodle spots to fine dining with flair, all equally bursting with flavours that reflect the city’s multicultural soul. Looking for innovative modern cooking, a casual lunch with friends, or a nostalgic hit of comfort food? Check out the recommendation for the top 10 must-try restaurants in Sydney right now.
China Bowl, Waterloo
Located in Waterloo, China Bowl is a local favourite for homestyle Chinese food done right. Known for its hearty noodle soups, flavour-packed stir-fries, and generous portions you can’t miss, it’s perfect for a quick late night meal, especially if you live in the area. Their signature beef noodle soup or sizzling hot plates make it the kind of place you’ll come back to again and again.
Amuro, Surry Hills
Amuro brings an understated Japanese elegance to Surry Hills, with a minimalist aesthetic inspired by nostalgia and relaxation, and a menu of beautifully-crafted small plates. An intimate diner with only 20 seats, they strive to make guests feel at home and converse about Japanese culture over their range of boutique saké and rotating snack list. Sip while enjoying delicate sashimi, grilled skewers, and their take on izakaya-style comfort food.
Pony Dining, The Rocks
Pony Dining is an Argentinean wood fire grill restaurant that has been in the heart of The Rocks for almost a decade. It features an open kitchen serving signature steak cuts, seafood from Australia’s coast, and fresh ingredients from local markets. Their open kitchen concept gives you a front row seat to see the magic happen. Choose from their carefully curated meat cut selections, aged for at least 40 days for that unbeatable tenderness and flavor. Simply put, it’s one of the best steak experience you may find in the area.
Corner 75, Randwick
For Eastern European warmth and comfort, head to Corner 75. It’s an icon for the Sydney’s Hungarian-Australian community, where you can expect traditional flavours like hearty goulash, pierogi, and schnitzels served in a cosy, old-school setting. It’s the kind of spot where the atmosphere is just as inviting as the food, with the dining room filled with photos resonant in Hungarian memorabilia. Despite the change of ownership, the food never fails to impress. In fact, their latest schnitzel is more magnificent than ever, with mouthwatering ripples of craggy curves that’s both light and fluffy.
AP Bread & Wine, Surry Hills
Bread-lovers rejoice. AP Bread & Wine is part bakery, part wine bar, with a menu that celebrates artisanal sourdough and natural wines. While AP is a chain easily discoverable almost anywhere in the inner city, each location has its own uniqueness. This one, especially. This 80-seat sandstone cottage has a sun-soaked courtyard and a dining room with fireplaces and double-height ceilings. For early morning pick-me-ups, enjoy their sweet brioche knot or buttermilk croissants. Stopping by for brunch? They offer daily pasta rotations regularly. You’ll find that dinner is more wine-oriented, with innovative pastas and desserts, as well as savoury dishes like vol-au-vents and pate en croute.
Knird, Crows Nest
Knird is a chic yet casual wine bar with a focus on creative, seasonal plates designed to share. With over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, they aim to bring a stellar customer experience, pairing hand-selected wines with delicious dishes. Their impressive wine list complements different kinds of menu selections that’s perfect for date night or catching up with friends over great conversation and even better food.
Baba’s Place, Marrickville
A nostalgic ode to Sydney’s migrant heritage, Baba’s Place serves up playful dishes inspired by Middle Eastern, Balkan, and Australian cuisines. It’s known as the home of “inner west food” for a good reason–their cuisine is fun in style, giving a nod to Greek enclaves through a beautiful taramasalata on toast, Shanghai-style noodles with XO sauce, and cocktails inspired by Balkan culture. Expect bold flavours, lots of colour, and a dining experience that’s equal parts quirky and delicious. For an even richer energy of the suburban community, Baba’s Place is decorated with family heirlooms and keepsakes.
Porkfat, Haymarket
For a fiery Thai experience, Porkfat is the name on everyone’s lips. With unapologetic spice and authentic street-food vibes, this hotspot serves up some of the city’s best Thai curries, stir-fries, and grilled meats. They aspire to offer an authentic Thai dining experience that captures the rich culture and flavours of the owners’ hometown in Saraburi, Central Thailand. Although new specials are always on rotation, their larb is simply a classic favorite–a flavour and texture bomb. With exceptional service, reasonable prices, and the ability to bring your favourite wines, it’s no surprise Porkfat is one of the finest Thai restaurants around.
Primi Italian, Sydney CBD
Primi Italian Restaurant is another popular choice, renowned for authentic, delicious Italian cuisine and attentive service. Their masterful sauces are inspired by traditional family recipes. Dine in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that celebrates Italian flavours, from gourmet pizzas, succulent meats, rich pasta and risotto, along with fresh seafood.
NOUR, Surrey Hills
Modern Lebanese dining at its finest, NOUR reinvents classic Middle Eastern dishes with a contemporary twist. Its contemporary interior prepares you for a sensory treat, as they are passionate about presenting authentic Lebanese flavours in a fresh and playful way. Order their lamb shoulder with pomegranate glaze, delicate fattoush salads, and show-stopping desserts.
Explore Sydney One Bite at a Time
Sydney’s food scene is all about diversity, creativity, and passion, and these spots prove it. No matter what you’re craving, Sydney has something to delight your palate, from comforting classics to bold, inventive creations. These must-try restaurants are just a taste of what the city has to offer. Start eating your way through Sydney one unforgettable bite at a time.