Best New Restaurants in Sydney 2024

Whilst we're still tasting our way through 2023's bumper year of openings, 2024 has seen a lot of exciting restaurant news. French fare continues to shine whilst more than a few waterfront restaurants have made their debut. Keeping up is a full-time job but one we're very happy to take on. Not sure where to start? Scroll on for the best new restaurants opening in Sydney. Trust us, they are absolutely worth a visit!

Olympus (Image Credit: Nikki To) 

Olympus 

From the team behind The Apollo and Cho Cho San comes this Greek taverna championing warmth, communal feasts and ancient cooking techniques. With some of the most glorious restaurant architecture we've seen, Olympus is designed around a central oculus ceiling and features limestone and travertine textures. 

Head Chef Ozge Kalvo's (ex-Baba’s Place, Ester) menu revolves around a large charcoal oven where delicacies such as grilled sardines, king prawn saganaki and wood-roasted quail are cooked. As for the wine list, Greek drops are the star of the show with a wider focus on Mediterranean wines. Book us in!

2 Baptist Street, Redfern

Cibaria Manly

An all-day Italian dining destination Cibaria Manly is set to take guests from their morning espresso at the caffetteria to gelato at the champagneria and all the way to a pasta feast at the spaghetteria. And behind it all? None other than celebrated restauranteurs Alessandro and Anna Pavoni of a'Mare and Ormeggio at the Spit. 

This multi-venue Italian 'piazza' will open within the Manly Pacific Hotel and host a number of different spaces including a spaghetteria, a bisteccheria (where dishes are cooked over coals and embers) and a pasticceria full of Italian desserts. Other highlights include a gorgonzola trolley, lobster rolls and Nutella bombolone. 

Coming Monday 16th December 

Manly Pacific Hotel, Manly

Island Radio (Image Credits: Steven Woodburn)

Island Radio

A part of Sydney's buzzing new precinct Wunderlich Lane, Island Radio might be one of the year's last openings, but it's also one of the most exciting. A Sydney-esque take on Southeast Asian Street food, it's the energy that will hit your first at this new spot. Picture this: You're sipping on a pandan cocktail, reggae tunes are playing, and you've got an adobo chicken bun on the way. Life is good! 

Swing by the noodle bar for bowls starting from $15, or, if you're feeling something slightly fancier, head to the eating house for vibrant interiors, and flavoursome, out of the box dishes. Got an upcoming event? Book the 12-seat dining room and you'll score a private karaoke room, too! 

Corner of Baptist and Cleveland Street, Redfern 

Neptune's Grotto

Neptune's Grotto has been teased all year and in extra fab, pre-Christmas news, their doors are finally open. This mysterious spot is from the talented team behind Pellegrino 2000 and will focus on providing Sydney with top-tier Northern Italian cuisine. As for the grotto? Situated underneath Clam Bar, the subterranean space's interiors boast cosy banquette seating and a decadent marble bar. Northern Italian wines have been hand-selected to accompany the house-made pasta and regional specialities that form the menu. If you want a seat, we recommend booking this one quick smart. 

Corner of Young Street and Bridge Street, Sydney 

The Grill 

One of three new venues making up The International, The Grill has arrived with a flourish of mid-century interiors, marble floors and premium fire-cooked dishes. Seasonality and providence are the guiding ethos behind the succinct menu that covers everything from pearl meat to 18- day dry aged Bistecca Florentina and Blackmore Wagyu tongue.  

25 Martin Place, Sydney

CANVAS

Aside from having one of the most enviable views in Sydney, CANVAS is also host to an exciting new approach to dining. Each season they'll be introducing a new 'in-residence' chef who will contribute to the restaurant's dynamic and ever revolving menu. 

Adhering to the surrounds, all aspect of CANVAS' design has been considered from the uniforms and soundscape to the restaurant's signature scent 

Josh Raine (Ex-Tetsuya's) will be taking the helm for the launch with a menu combining the best of the season with unique flavour combos. Think asparagus with nori, poached egg, lemon & prawn and tomato essence risotto with fennel, chervil & chervil. 

Level 4, MCA Sydney 

Tilda  

Elegant, sophisticated and uniquely Australian, Tilda has nailed the elegant modern Australian aesthetic and the dishes to match. Start with Tilda’s already iconic bread and butter service before delving into luxurious bowls of handcrafted pasta and fresh plates of seasonal seafood cooked over charcoal.  

61-101 Phillip Street, Sydney  

Delta Rue (Image Credits: Steven Woodburn)

Delta Rue 

Straight from our favourites behind Lana and Grana, House Made Hospitality's latest opening can be found within Sofitel Sydney Wentworth. The brief? The old-world glamour of Hanoi. There are plenty of delights to uncover at Delta Rue including an intimate champagne bar — with seven by-the-glass pours — a bánh mì trolley serving bite-sized portions of the Vietnamese classic and aromatic dishes aplenty. 

Level 5, 61-101 Phillip Street, Sydney 

Opening Friday 25th October 

Prefecture 48 (Image Credits: Anson Smart)

Prefecture 48

Dreams really do come true. If a trip to Japan isn't on the cards for the minute, we've got some exciting news for you. Sydney is now home to a three-storey Japanese precinct consisting of six venues - the backdrop to what we can imagine will be many a delicious progressive dinner. 

Nestled inside a heritage-listed Victorian warehouse, this brand-new precinct is home to six distinct venues, each offering a unique dining experience. Discover Ibushi, a robata grill restaurant; Dear Florence, a patisserie; Whisky Thief, an intimate whisky bar; Garuku, a Kaiseki fine-dining haven; Five, a modern European eatery; and Omakase by P48, where artistry takes centre stage. With impeccable service and an unforgettable atmosphere, this is one spot you’ll want to keep coming back to.

Prefecture 48, 230 Sussex Street Sydney

Songbird 

The latest opening from beloved Australian chef Neil Perry, Songbird serves up classic Cantonese dishes using fresh Aussie produce and the result is a bit lovely. Having scored a hat within mere months of opening, this Double Bay newbie is already proving to be a favourite. Shallot and saltbush pancake with sweet soy, Peking duck with hoisin sauce and mandarin pancakes and stir-fried Copper Tree beef fillet with cumin and leeks are just a few of the divine dishes being served up. 

24 Bay Street, Double Bay 

Ennui 

It's undoubtedly the year of French restaurants in Sydney but with French cuisine being a stalwart in the culinary world, that's no bad thing. Plus, this one is touching down with a Thai and Japanese twist. Ennui has made its home within a heritage-listed Haymarket build and you can expect a signature duck dish (a cross between Peking duck and duck a l'orange) and chicken liver parfait-stuffed eclairs as well as fusion-style dishes littered with local ingredients like wallaby crusted with Szechuan pepper and steamed Pacific oysters with Champagne sauce and ginger lime. The two-storey venue is also home to a lively bar on the bottom floor with a selection of rare whiskies and fusion cocktails - perfect for a post-dinner tipple. 

461 Pitt Street, Haymarket

Bistro Grenier 

A new Odd Culture Group opening is akin to an adult Christmas. Serving French Bistro realness, Bistro Grenier will take a playful approach to the classic cuisine. Soak up French oak and deep burgundy styling whilst sipping on a wine list stacked with greats from the Loire Valley, Southern Rhône, and Burgundy. 

Upstairs, 266 King Street, Newtown 

The Cut Bar & Grill 

Iconic steakhouse, The Cut Bar & Grill, is back with a new look and elevated feel, courtesy of Hunter Hospitality Group (Rockpool Bar & Grill, Saké Restaurant, Bar Patrón). Located in a former bond store in the Argyle precinct, the venue boasts a sleek subterranean setting with beautiful wooden booths, marble tables, and two distinct dining and drinking areas, catering to 130 guests whilst still feeling intimate and cosy.

Meat is the name of the game here and you won't want to go past the signature prime rib that melts in your mouth. Slow-cooked overnight and served tableside with horseradish cream or red wine sauce. The menu also features a creative take on ‘surf and turf’ with roast beef, beef fat potato, and caviar, alongside small plates such as white sturgeon caviar with potato hash brown, tuna aguachile with avocado, and steak tartare with potato crisps.

16 Argyle Street, The Rocks

Winstons (Image Credit: David Griffen Photography) 

Winstons 

Ahhh. Nothing compares to a British pub and Nags Head in Glebe is as close as you'll get without a plane ticket. In glorious news, renowned Chef Nelly Robinsons has opened Australia's first true gastropub - Winstons - right inside this beautiful building. Nestle into the intimate dining room of Winstons, right at the back of the pub, and dine on one of the best-value set menus in Sydney. Packed with delicious twists on classic British dishes, it's a whole lot of fun with so many unexpected flavour additions blended with comfort food favourites. Easily one of our favourite openings this year! 

Think scotch eggs (but not as you know them!), coronation chicken and Nelly's iconic beef wellington. 

162 St Johns Road, Sydney 

Teddy 

Opening Saturday 31st August, Teddy is a fun new reimagining of the classic Aussie bistro from the team behind Ezra. Taking into account the current climate, nostalgic and comforting dishes will pepper the menu. Affordability and accessibility are key to the offering that includes warm dinner rolls slathered in garlic butter, King prawn cocktails and a pork and crayfish sausage roll. Paired with weekly specials, generous happy hours and a jukebox loaded with 80s classics, this new opening is sparking joy. 

1 Kellett Street, Potts Point 

Pino’s Vino e Cucina al Mare

Sydney's south has just copped a new addition to the culinary scene and it is happy days indeed. Pino's Vino e Cucina al Mare is restauranteur Matteo Margiotta's second Sydney venue and this time he has turned to Puglia for inspiration. The interiors are all about warmth and comfort with copper pots scattered throughout, mood lighting and a large wooden door welcoming guests. As for the menu, seafood is the star of the show with platters of the good stuff and build-your-own charcuterie boards a great place to start before moving into bowls of cacio e pepe and rich lobster pasta. Pop a trip to The Shire on your agenda! 

15 Surf Road, Cronulla

Table Manners (Image Credit: Jennifer Soo) 

Table Manners 

Whilst Bronte was a dreamy suburb before, the opening of Table Manners has elevated its status even further. A neighbourhood restaurant and bar with a European influence, you can expect approachable dishes and a relaxed atmosphere. As hospitality hero Alex Cameron's first solo venture, it's clear that a lot of love has gone into this opening. Head Chef Luke Churchill (ex Parlar, Oncore by Clare Smyth) is behind the menu which includes highlights like tuna belly toast, Hervey Bay scallops with nduja butter and macadamia and lemon polenta madeleines. Paired with a 400-bottle wine list (with 30 by the glass!) and sleek interiors, it's the perfect place to while away an entire evening. 

56 - 60 Macpherson Street, Bronte

Saint Peter 

Whilst not exactly a new opening, Sydney's beloved Saint Peter has found a new home at The Grand National Hotel in Paddington so gear up for more of the good stuff. Double the size of the original restaurant, Saint Peter 2.0 offers a restaurant, bar and private dining room alongside a custom-made chef's table for six. 

You can look forward to an incredible Australian rock oyster menu at the bar. As for the full dining experience, you can expect a welcome to the restaurant at the kitchen counter before a progression of perfectly presented dishes. The drinks list, curated by sommelier Houston Barakat, will span the globe with a niche focus on vineyards located in coastal locations. 

Next to open will be the 14-room boutique hotel, building on Saint Peter's commitment to elevated hospitality. Exciting stuff! 

161 Underwood Street, Paddington 

Attenzione! Food and Wine 

In what may be one of the most highly anticipated restaurant openings this year Attenzione! Food and Wine will be touching down in Redfern in late July, bringing with it the thickest pasta you ever did see.

Brought to us by Felix Colman (part owner and operator of Ragazzi and Fabbrica), Toby Davis (ex-Yellow restaurant manager), Toby Stansfield (Ex Lola’s, The Old Fitz and Fabbrica) and Dexter Kim (freelance photographer and videographer ex-Buffet Digital) - the cast is A-class.

So, what can you expect? A Euro bistro/wine bar serving up simple, and delicious fare paired with a worldly wine list and a neighbourhood feel. Perfecto. 

180 Redfern Street, Redfern 

Ammos (Image Credits: Jason Loucas) 

Ammos 

Much-loved chef Peter Conistis' latest jewel, Ammos, has just opened in Brighton-Le-Sands and you'll want to book your next Sunday lunch here. Why? On top of delivering his fresh take on Mediterranean cuisine, you'll also be treated to a specialist saganaki station, mezze bar, roving ouzo trolley and cuts of lamb you've likely never dined on.  

Utilizing the best produce Sydney has to offer, you can expect modern takes on classics with highlights including fire roasted whole lobster and a la greque butter, sovereign lamb tomahawk with celeriac skordalia and shellfish saganaki. As for the wine list, take your opportunity to sip on lesser-known Greek varietals alongside Australia's top producers. Add on the incredible coastal view and you've got a meal to remember. 

Level 3, 2 Princess Street, Brighton-Le-Sands 

Comedor (Image Credits: Dexter Kim) 

Comedor 

Comedor means dining room in Spanish and that's exactly what the team at Comedor have crafted for their guests - an inviting space bubbling over with hospitality. Showcasing Head Chef Alejandro Huerta's skills gleaned from some of the best kitchens in the world (Pujo and Noma) as well as the traditional techniques passed down to him from his grandma, the menu is an incredible blend of dishes designed to be shared. Scattered with locally sourced ingredients and even a few native numbers, the menu boasts the likes of scallop, corn miso vinaigrette, wattle seed and salt bush, and persimmon and Manchego tart. An incredible agave-based spirit menu and a wine list popping with chilled reds rounds out the offering that vows to bring a fresh approach towards Mexican food to Sydney.

182 Australia Street, Newtown

Soluna (Image Credit: Jiwoon Kim & Steven Woodburn) 

Soluna 

We love a restaurant that caters to any vibe and that's what Soluna absolutely nails. Light-filled and relaxed interiors meet a bright and fresh menu inspired by the vibrancy of LA. An indoor and outdoor bar, dining room, all-weather courtyard and 30-seater lounge offer a space for any mood whilst the food itself can't be boxed into a single cuisine and instead, takes inspiration from the freshness of Mediterranean and Asian flavours. 

With so much to try, where should you start? We have it on good authority that the sourdough spaghetti with roasted garlic miso and black pepper is a must-order. Finish with sweet and savoury feta, thyme and honey madeleines served straight from the oven with a warm honey dipping sauce. 

Shop 3/168 Walker Street, North Sydney

Genzo (Image Credit: Steven Woodburn) 

Genzo 

Genzo has just touched down in Sydney in time for all the Japanese summer spam you're about to receive. Centred around robata grills and delicious snacky bites, you can expect a fusion of flavours from the avocado and Vegemite on crispy rice cake to Japanese curry scampi. For those after something a little heftier, larger dishes include a roast duck and house-made soba noodle tsukemen. A temperature-controlled sake room, a 100-strong wine list and Japanese-inspired cocktails are the icing on the cake. 

Shop 4/168 Walker Street, North Sydney 

20 Chapel 

Headed up by former Culinary Director of Hunter Street Hospitality and Rockpool Bar & Grill, Corey Costelloe, and chef Dave Allison, comes a menu packed with fire-cooked food. With a custom-built wood fire grill, produce direct from Allison's farm and an on-site aging room, you're in for culinary a treat. You can expect a range of lesser-known cuts to grace your plate at 20 Chapel alongside local brews and negronis on tap (literally). 

20 Chapel Street, Marrickville 

The Mona Social (Image Credits:  Damian Bennett, Matt Deavin Courtney Rafferty, Steven Woodburn)

The Mona Social

Introducing The Mona Social, the latest gem unveiled by The Boathouse Group atop the Mona Vale Golf Club, commanding breathtaking views of Mona Vale Beach. Having just opened its doors for lunch and dinner, its fusion of elegance and relaxation promises to redefine dining on the Northern Beaches. With an a la carte bistro offering reinvented classics and a casual bar with sports viewing areas, pool tables, and an in-house golf simulator, there's something for everyone here. 

Described by CEO Antony Jones as "Boathouse meets country club," emphasising its inviting ambiance with warm timber tones and lush greenery. Headed by culinary virtuosos Mark LaBrooy and Cameron Johnston, the menu celebrates bistro staples with a contemporary twist. Highlights include the venison tartare with a zesty kick of horseradish, octopus, or a beef tongue skewer, chargrilled prawns and garlic and kombu mussels. For heartier options, the menu champions modern favourites, including red wine braised beef cheek served with Jerusalem artichoke chips, lamb rump, and crispy skin chicken. 

The bar offers sharp bites like the Mona Social Club sandwich, anchovy crumpets, and eel and pork terrine, as well as vibrant cocktails perfect for long lunches. Focusing on emerging Australian winemakers and offering a curated selection of Scottish whiskeys, The Mona Social is a must-visit. 

Level 1/3 Golf Avenue, Mona Vale

FIOR

Our friends in the Sutherland Shire have just hit the jackpot with the opening of modern Aussie/Italian eatery FIOR. From the same good people behind Jane and Arthur in Surry Hills, FIOR is a 120-seat venue that strikes the perfect balance between intimate and large-enough-for-a-group-dinner. Dishes are designed to be shared and the handmade pasta available in half or full serves. The menu has been curated with local produce in mind thanks to suppliers like Marrickville's LP's and Vanella. Cocktails are also on point with FIOR's twist on the classic Aperol an easy standout. We only take out Aperol infused with strawberry and guava now. The cherry on the cake? The roving gelato cart, of course. 

FIOR is open seven nights a week - rare for restaurants in this part of town. Swing by between 4pm and 5pm should you fancy one of the best happy hours in The Shire!

Sitchu Tip: The mafalde cavolo nero pesto with stracciatella and the barramundi in brown butter and capers are imminent return-worthy dishes. 

Shop 2, 752-756 Kingsway, Gymea 

Bar Lettera 

Nestled in the heart of North Sydney, Bar Lettera offers an escape from the city below. The menu artfully blends classic Italian flavours with innovative Australian influences, featuring standout dishes like the Milo Tiramisu—a delightful twist on a traditional dessert. Whether you're seeking a quiet spot for a relaxing evening or a mid-morning brunch, Bar Lettera is your new spot! 

Level 5, 88 Walker Street, North Sydney 

Good Luck Restaurant Lounge 

The arrival of Good Luck Restaurant Lounge is the kind of exciting food news that we live for. Executive Chef of Totti's Bondi, Mike Eggert, and Merivale CEO Justin Hemmes, have been working on the concept for almost three years and have successfully captured the Avant Garde 1920s Tokyo vibes they were aiming for. 

The basement of the historic Burns Philip & Co building on Bridge Street is home to the new venture that's serving genre-bending cocktails and Asian-inspired bites. The inaugural menu highlights the restaurant's four-metre charcoal grill as well as herby, citrusy and spicy flavours. Menu highlights include fire-roasted prawns in tomato miso with chicken skin and cereal crunch and fish and prawn sausage with lime and cucumber. Adhering to no set genre of cuisine, Eggert teases "Think Totti’s but then add soy, dashi, vinegar with fresh herbs, citrus and chilli". 

11 Bridge Street, Sydney 

White Horse (Image Credit: Steven Woodburn) 

White Horse 

She's back. In a very big way. White Horse has just swung open its door after undergoing a complete overall and the offering is elite.

You can start booking the work Chrissie party too as the brand-new White Horse is replete with options from the downstairs restaurant to the public bar, garden terrace and array of intimate function rooms above. 

Downstairs you can expect soft neutral tones, reclaimed French oak tables, sling leather seats and textured walls. As for food, it's luxe for less. Think Aussie ingredients with a French twist. Creamed warrigal greens, a beetroot mille-feuille with muntries and native thyme and veal tongue French toast are all set to debut. The same theme can be found woven throughout the deceptively simple yet incredibly delicious cocktail menu. A 100-strong wine list rounds out the offering for the oenophiles. 

Head upstairs and you'll find a public bar menu with a focus on snacks and cocktails inspired by fruity flavours. Whichever nook you choose to nestle, you can expect relaxed, quality and affordable - the motto for this new venture. 

381 Crown Street, Surry Hills 

Morena (Image Credits: Ariana Leggerio)

Morena

Nestled in the heart of Sydney's CBD within the iconic GPO building at No. 1 Martin Place, Morena is the newest culinary venture from the Renascence Group, renowned for its acclaimed eateries like Farmer's Daughters and Victoria by Farmer's Daughters in Melbourne.

This sprawling 200-seat restaurant is dedicated to showcasing the vibrant flavours from Executive Chef, Alejandro Saravia's  native Peru, along with offerings from Colombia, Mexico, Venezuela, Argentina, and Brazil. The menu champions locally sourced ingredients working closely with farmers, suppliers and producers whilst also sourcing authentic ingredients from across Latin America. 

Sitchu Tip: Don't miss the ceviche with ginger, shallots, leche de tigre, yuyos and tortitas de choclo prepared fresh at your table. And for a main the Fore quarter Kaloola suckling pig, with jus and mojo is a standout.

No. 1 Martin Place, Sydney

Bar Infinita (Image Credits: Chad Konik) 

Bar Infinita 

People of Gordon and surrounds, rejoice! Bar Infinita has just opened its doors and authentic Italian bites are yours for the taking. Chef Francesco Iervolino (ex Firedoor & Ormeggio) is the man behind the menu which features handmade pastas, antipasti, artisan cheeses and steak. Cocktails also take pride of place with house made limoncello, an Amalfi sour with amaretto and a wine list handpicked by Paski owner Giorgio de Maria. 

10 St Johns Avenue, Gordon 

Izgara 

Popular Potts Point restaurant Izgara has just relocated to the city and the refreshed menu is an absolute joy. A relaxed energy means Izgara is the perfect spot for any occasion with share-style plates the order of the day.  The restaurant centres around the Ocakbasi grill, a popular method in Istanbul, which produces the likes of kebab, grilled prawns and lamb kofte. With 250 local and international wines on the menu and cocktails boasting oriental twists, Izgara also makes for the perfect spot to wind down and snack after a long day in the city. 

Sitchu Tip: The cauliflower with ras el hanout and halloumi with honey, walnuts, sun-dried tomatoes and currants are two dishes not to be missed! 

215 Clarence Street, Sydney 

Casa Esquina (Image Credit: Steve Woodburn) 

Casa Esquina

Taking over the iconic corner spot on Elliot Street, Balmain (formerly home to L'Unico and Efendy), Casa Esquina is bringing a new vibrancy to Balmain with its chic fit-out and delicious Argentinian eats. From the team behind Tequila Mockingbird and Esteban, the menu showcases the vibrant flavours of Argentina, with a range of premium cuts cooked on the open flame parilla - complete with a chimichurri kit to mix up at your table. However, for the non-meat lovers, the extensive menu caters to a range of tastes, including sweet bread and prawn paella with wagyu fat chilli crunch; black garlic pasta with stracciatella and pecorino and kingfish tiradito, piquillo dressing, lime, jalapeño and shiso. 

Stop by on Tuesdays and Wednesdays where the BBQ spit will serve up Argentinian-sty;e street food - and Sundays for a custom parilla BBQ that will be firing up delicious feasts and injecting that infectious Argentian energy into Balmain.

79 Elliot Street, Balmain

MATKIM 

Intimate dining is thriving in Sydney and MATKIM, an 8-seat Korean omakase restaurant, is the latest addition to the scene. With an emphasis on storytelling, each dish at MATKIM is prepared in the open kitchen, right before diner's eyes. The menu features local ingredients as well as sought-after Korean imports and champions fire as a cooking method. In line with traditional omakase menus, the exact dishes will be decided on the day but you can look forward to the likes of yukhoe tangtangi (beef tartare with live octopus); abalone sotbap (abalone, abalone liver rice) and WA marron with a crab soybean (doenjang) foam. 

Shop CQT.07 180 George Street, Sydney 

The Joey (Image Credit: Alex Marks Photography) 

The Joey 

Location, location, location is being served by Sydney's newest dining destination The Joey. Ideally placed on the Pittwater, The Joey is set within the lovingly restored heritage Barrenjoey Boatshed. The experience is elevated from the get-go with large glass windows, lush gardens and an understated nautical colour palette. 

Multiple spaces allow for varied dining experiences from the relaxed 'The Jetty Bar' to the casual Garden Bar and the elegant Dining Room & Bar. As for eats, you can expect the freshest Australian seafood cooked up with premium seasonal accompaniments alongside a drinks list packed with Australian-made spirits. 

Governor Phillip Park, Palm Beach 

Sydney Common 

Food cooked over woodfire is far superior to food cooked any other way. We'll hear no ifs, ands or buts! Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park has just welcomed Sydney Common, who share our belief in a fondness for woodfired feasts. 

Elevating classic and contemporary hotel dining, this new destination should be at the top of your 'to try' list whether you're booking a stay or not. Under Head Chef Jamie Robertson's (ex-Ester) guidance, Sydney Common's menu will be guided by seasonality and uniquely Australian ingredients. Chargrilled romano beans with paprika egg sauce and roasted buckwheat tea, Blackmore wagyu short scotch and Yamba King prawns are just a few of the delights you can look forward to. Five-star hotel luxury is exactly what you can expect from the wine and cocktail list, expertly curated by Head Sommelier Sebastian Brogren. 

Level 1, 161 Elizabeth Street, Sydney                           

Tanuki 

A very welcome addition from the team behind beloved Sydney institution Matteo, Tanuki is a Japanese Izakaya headed up by Chef Ken Wee Lee (ex-sushi e, Zuma and Toko). Seafood aficionados will be thrilled with the offering that ranges from a raw bar to fresh seafood display. 

Whilst the Japanese menu is as elevated as they come, don't expect any stuffy or fussy vibes. Tanuki offers the kind of carefree, late-night dining scene Sydney is earning a reputation for, as evidenced by the playful drink's menu. 

37 Bay Street, Double Bay 

Toei

Next time you find yourself meandering through Surry Hills, make your way into this cosy neighbourhood restaurant. Serving Asian fusion snacks and dishes of all sizes, you'll be thrilled with the impeccable presentation and delish flavour pairings at Toei. Think five-spice buttermilk fried quail, octopus in Korean chilli paste glaze and Sydney rock oysters with white kimchi mignonette. The sunny yellow interiors with warm wooden accents will have you feel cheery from the minute you arrive. A great spot to linger over a series of snacks and a main or two. 

Shop 1 & 2, 185 Campbell Street, Surry Hills 

Bartiga 

2024 has begun with a bang with the opening of Double Bay restaurant Bartiga. Head Chef Noor (ex Gordon Ramsay's Maze, Testuya's) will be bringing his Malaysian legacy to the kitchen as well as a love for seasonal and Australian suppliers. You can expect a twist on Southeast Asian cuisine with the likes of poached bug roll with red curry pesto, BBQ prawn tom yum spaghettini and scotch MB4 with Asian herb chimichurri. 

As for drinks, consider the offering equally exciting. Mixologist Vincent Valliere has curated a cocktail list with the same Southeast Asian flair as the menu, whilst the wine list will thrill with 80 options up for grabs. 

Corner of Short Street and Bay Street, Double Bay 

Looking for more of the best new restaurants in Sydney to road test? From edgy Chinese restaurants and festive Mexican eateries to group dining favourites and BYO gems, there are so many cool restaurants in Sydney to visit. Browse our extensive collection here.