Best New Restaurants in Sydney 2023

2023 appears to be the year of the new opening and you'll hear no complaints coming from us. From beachside haunts to fine dining delights and Sydney's love affair with all things French continuing, there's a little something for everyone. 

New restaurants and exciting venues are opening all the time around the harbour city, so the only question is, which one are you going to try first?

Scroll on for the best new restaurants opening in Sydney this year. Trust us, they are absolutely worth a visit!

Folly's Bar & Bistro 

Giving big neighbourhood-bar energy with an elevated twist, Folly's is a hot contender for your next long lunch. Aside from a terrazzo-topped bar, maroon leather banquette seating and wine-bottle-lined walls, you can expect to find a deliciously warm ambience here. Three Michelin star-trained chef Atonio Espiritu is behind the menu which boasts a little bit of everything including our favourite - the rigatoni alla vodka. As for drinks, Folly's boasts 18 wines by the glass, an incredible cocktail list focusing on Australian spirits and a very strong snack game. A worthy addition to the North Sydney scene. 

429 Miller Street, Cammeray 

Bobby's 

Just steps away from Cronulla Beach lies this Mediterranean-led seafood restaurant brimming with both style and substance. There's a little something for everyone at Bobby's with an all-day coffee cart offering coffee by morning and Spritz's at sunset, a restaurant for long lunching and a beach club perfect for a cocktail and snacks. 

 What can you expect on the food front? Think brioche prawn rolls, Cantabrian anchovies on toast, ocean trout crudo and a very special lemon tiramisu, all cooked up by Executive chef Pablo Tordesillas (ex-executive chef Otto & Tottis) and head chef Shaun Baker (Pier, Yan Restaurant, Bills Restaurants). As for drinks, the focus is on Mediterranean wines and light and fresh cocktails. 

6R The Esplanade, Cronulla 

Deux Frères (Image Credit: Jude Cohen) 

Deux Frères

Sydney's foodie scene is easily one of the best and it's even better since we've scored our own dedicated Basque Pintxos venue. From the good people that brought us Bouillon L'Entrecôte, Deux Frères will focus on serving up small plates, larger share plates, and high-quality tinned seafood. House-made vermouth, sangria and Basque region wines rounds out the offering. Ideal for a catch up with friends, you'll adore everything about this petite pinxtos joint from the perfectly plated Tortilla de Patatas to the authentic and striking crockery. 

6 Loftus Lane, Sydney 

Chez Blue 

This November Rozelle is set to become home to its very own French bistro and we think that's the best kind of news you could receive. Chez Blue will be opening on Thursday 16th November and seeks to share the joy of dining on the streets of Paris with one and all. An intimate cocktail bar will provide the perfect post-work hangout whilst the 90-seater bistro will be beckoning those keen on wining and dining. 

Cosy booths, banquette seating and mosaic tiling will evoke a moody atmosphere whilst the menu will delight with dishes curated by Head Chef Mark Williamson (ex-Bistro Moncur). Expect classic French with a fresh spin - tuna tartare and tabasco, peach and tomato dressed in goat's curd and brûléed chicken liver pate. A mostly French wine list tops things off alongside some reworked classic cocktails. 

599 Darling Street, Rozelle

(Image Credit: Jiwon Kim) 

Itō

A very welcome addition to the Crown Street scene, Itō is the Japanese Izakaya you need on your restaurant rotation. Head Chef Erik Ortolani has combined his Italian heritage and passion for Japanese cooking to craft something truly unique. Dishes like yellowfin tuna served on bonito bread with shaved bottarga and Wagyu mafaldine paired with white shimeji and miso grace the menu and will give you a whole new appreciation for fusion cuisine. 

Key to the Itō experience is the drinks menu which features Japanese inspired classic cocktails, a quirky selection of wines from Japan and an extensive sake selection. The pared back interiors with fun pops of colour set the scene for the perfect night out. 

413-415 Crown Street, Surry Hill

Martinez Restaurant 

If you're craving a sojourn in the South of France but aren't able to nip over, head over to newly opened Martinez Restaurant for the next best thing. Heavily influenced by the seafood and fresh produce found scattering the menus of this part of France, Martinez Restaurant's menu is ready to transport you there. 

The Plateau de Fruits de Mer, a platter of seasonal seafood, is perfect for a celebration whilst the Classic Provencal Bouillabaisse is a must order whatever the occasion. Guests can even enjoy Martinez for breaky with French scrambled eggs, ris au lait pudding and more. 

A signature cocktail menu and a wine list packed with organic and biodynamic drops rounds out the offering. With popping pink and red interiors, Martinez is a delight for all the senses. 

Quay Quarter Tower, 50 Bridge Street, Sydney 

Nico (Image Credit: KW Photography)

Nico 

Sydney's brand-new culinary gem, Nico, doesn't do things by halves. Everything here is flawless, from the Italian apertifs to the Amalfi Coast-inspired decor. Chef Nicola Ronconi and his business partner Ewa Witkowska have succeeded in bringing a fresh take on the classics to Sydney's Italian scene - no easy feat! The pops of terracotta and jewel blue combined with ambient lighting make for the perfect mini 'holiday' in the form of after work drinks or a weekend date spot. 

Handmade pasta, Kingfish crudo and Sfogilatella stuffed with avocado and caviar are some of the delights you can look forward to. But it's the lemon tiramisu that's got people talking. Chef Nicola's recipe has been honed for over ten years and has reached icon status. The soft lemon cream is the ideal light dish to end an incredible meal. 

Sitchu Tip: The homemade focaccia with smoked butter may well be a top contender for the best focaccia in Sydney. 

17/450 Miller Street, Cammeray 

Pearl 

Enter Pearl, the Cantonese dining joint shaking up Sydney's Chinese food scene. Offering up a relaxed atmosphere alongside views of the Harbour Bridge, Pearl's approach is simple - dim sum, barbecue and seafood designed to be shared. Keen to highlight unique Australian flavours and seasonal produce, the menu at Pearl is set to shift regularly but you can look forward to the likes of wok-fried Lobster with Pearl's signature XO sauce, caramelized BBQ pork belly and dry aged, twice-cooked Peking duck pancakes. A killer wine list and grand banquet menus rounds out the offering. 

Shop R1013, Retail Level 1, 50 Bridge Streety, Circular Quay 

Alfie's 

This September, the good people that brought us Bistecca and The Gidley will be blowing minds once again with their new concept steak restaurant Alfie's. Whilst Bistecca champions the T-bone and The Gidley the rib eye, Alfie's will hero the Sirloin. Fast-paced and ready to hit the Sydney scene running, the team promise to have your steak on your table within 15 minutes - ideal for power lunches and city slickers on the go. 

In intriguing news, Alfie's is also set to serve Sydney's coldest martini. With decor inspired by London's East End, we're excited to see this one come to life. 

Bligh Street

Strand Bistrothèque (Image Credit: Parker Blaine)

Strand Bistrothèque

If you’re a French food fanatic, we recommend booking a table at Strand Bistrothèque, stat. As you step off William Street into this low-lit haven, you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve stumbled into a chic Parisian dive bar. Everything is impeccable from the tiled floors to the wine list curated by P&V Wine & Liquor Merchant’s Mike Bennie and a swish cocktail list curated by the Maybe Sammy team. But the food, the food is what we’ve been left daydreaming of. You can’t go wrong with a single dish from the exquisite menu but you’d be mad for not ordering the pastry-topped French onion soup and potato galette to start.

Sitchu Tip: Swing by on a Wednesday and settle into a cosy booth as you’re serenaded by live jazz.

99 William Street, Darlinghurst

CASA by The Boathouse

Palm Beach has welcomed a new venue just in time for the warmer months, with CASA by The Boathouse. Taking over the former Boathouse Homewares store, CASA is serving up delicious Italian fare, think casual relaxed vibes, stroll on in after a swim for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an all-day menu and cocktails kicking in from 11 am. Think Antipasto plates including snapper carpaccio, burrata and calamari fritti to classic housemade pizzas.

1 Beach Road, Palm Beach

Khānaa

Sydney, gear up. The Khan family have just opened the doors of their newest restaurant so you can consider your next decadent meal out sorted. The restaurant will be serving up a fine dining taking on Bengali cuisine with a menu curated by renowned Chef Opel Khan. Chef Lucinda Khan and Chef Jazz Singh will be heading up the kitchen team bringing this homage to childhood memories to life. The a la carte menu is designed to be shared with a series of small and large tasting plates on offer. You can look forward to reinvented Bengali delights ranging from Turmeric Infused Scallop to Duck Leg Confit Samosa. The best way to experience the incredible flavours? Opt for the tasting menu which will take you all the way from Shiraz Caviar to Chai Ganache. 

Shop 3, 335 Crown Street, Surry Hills 

Poetica 

In excellent news for the people of North Sydney, Poetica, a refined and light-filled restaurant and bar has just opened. The 120-seat space has made a bang with a 700-bottle wine wall, dry-ageing cabinets and a 15-metre-long open kitchen. Stone, copper, wood and burnt honey upholstery contribute to the relaxed yet luxurious aesthetic. 

Head Chef Connor Hartley-Simpson's menu champions local produce as well as cooking methods that have stood the test of time - from pickling and fermenting to wood-fire and charcoal. You can expect to see dry aged swordfish cooking over the fire before being caramelised on the hot grill whilst leek tops are charred in the Josper. As for the wine list, vintage gems and beloved classics make up the 450-strong offering. One for the bucket list! 

Mezzanine Level, 1 Dennison Street, North Sydney

The Meat & Wine Co

One of Australia's best-known steakhouses, The Meat & Wine Co has just opened its twelfth location, right in the heart of Sydney CBD. Delivering the finest meats, and curated international and local wines, the new location comes complete with the institution's signature African flair. The romantic and chic inner-city setting seats 120 guests, and is open for lunch and dinner from Monday to Sunday. 

Don't forget to try the restaurant's exclusive, in-house, dry-aged steak programme, AGED: Shorthorn Rib-Eye from the heart of Gippsland in Victoria is artisan beef dripping butter infused with seasonal ingredients and aged for up to six weeks.

219-223 Castlereagh Street, Sydney

Jacksons on George (Image Credit: Nikki To)

Jacksons on George 

Just as spring hits the city, Jacksons on George, a multi-level venue slinging Euro/Oz eats is hitting the city so consider after work drinks, Friday lunch and Saturday night sorted. The ground floor will be home to the venue's public bar with old-school cocktails, modern pub classics and all your favourite tipples on hand. Head Chef Steven Sinclair (ex-Bondi Icebergs) will elevate classic pub dishes with the likes of Cotechino and Mustard Fruit Sausage Roll made with slow-cooked duck sausage. The rooftop bar will continue the theme with an alfresco setting. 

Bistro George on level one will be serving up produce-driven bistro classics like Salt and Armagnac Brined Ora King Salmon Gravlax with Blinis and Cultured Cream. A welcome addition to Sydney's burgeoning Euro scene! 

176 George Street, Sydney 

The Boathouse CYCA

Located on the foreshore of Sydney's scenic Rushcutters Bay, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia is now home to the latest addition from The Boathouse Group. The waterside venue is serving up Mediterranean-inspired classics, curated by The Boat House Group Executive Chef James Brownrigg, in what is a waterside dining experience to remember. Swing by for breakfast, lunch or dinner to feast on the likes of calamari fritti, orecchiette with crab and chilli, and taramasalata with charred Turkish bread, as well as pizzas straight from the oven. Perfecto! 

1 New Beach Road, Darling Point 

Luc-San 

Not sure what cuisine you fancy for dinner? Well, you'll never have to decide between Japanese and French ever again with this brand-new French Izakaya from Luke Mangan. The relaxed restaurant is tucked away down Pennys Lane in Potts Point and offers up a moody ambience, perfect for a mid-week date night or Saturday celebration. The Japanese-French fusion cocktails are an absolute delight (think parings of lychee and ginger and nori-infused gin) with the food menu boasting equally unique flavours. The classic steak tartare with fried sushi rice and wasabi leaf and the tuna croissant have already secured their place as fan favourites. 

Corner of Pennys Lane and Kings Cross Road, Potts Point 

Ricos Tacos 

We love a food truck turned restaurant moment. In such hot demand that they needed to take over a two-storey space, Ricos Tacos can now be found housed within The Norfolk Redfern. Feast downstairs in classic Ricos fashion or head upstairs for 1960s Mexican sports bar vibes with a splash of disco for good measure. What could be better than a boogie with a late-night quesadilla in hand?! The lush beer garden even features a charcoal BBQ for Sunday sessions in the sun. 

Decor is fun and bright, the dishes are fresh and inventive (we're talking chicken tacos with almond coffee mole) and the drinks are killer! We know where we're spending summer. 

305 Cleveland Street, Redfern 

The Evergreen 

Ever wondered what Korean/Australian fusion would taste like? Wonder no more! The Evergreen has just touched down in Chatswood with a swathe of unique dishes. A sensory experience is of top priority and this includes the inventive cocktail menu decked out with the likes of the Kimchi Margherita and Soju Sour. On the food front, sample The Evergreen's take on gnocchi, a sizzling Korean BBQ platter and kimchi arancini. 

R15 260 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood

Hurricanes 

Your favourite Sydney steakhouse has just touched down in Cronulla - but with a major twist! Injecting a hefty dose of Mediterranean flair into both the decor and the menu, you can expect sculptural curves, sandstone and neutral colourways paired with an a la carte menu packed with fresh seafood, basted signature ribs and steaks. As for the drinks, Hurricanes have gone all out with over 80 wines curated by the incredibly knowledgeable sommelier and consultant Stéphane Pommier. Do yourself a favour and sample one of the seasonal cocktails, too, which incorporate local Australian-made (and even some Shire-made!) spirits. 

The 300-seat restaurant manages to feel intimate and spacious at once with multiple dining zones including the bar area (perfect for a drink and some nibbles), the main dining room, outdoor area and the exceptional private dining space. 

Shop 1, 49 Gerrale Street, Cronulla 

Raja 

One of the most exciting openings this year, Raja (from the same team who brought us Ezra) has brought the flavours of Mumbai to Sydney in a way we've never seen before. Head Chef Ahana Dutt takes traditional Indian flavours and melds them with contemporary favourites to create a menu that is at once a homage and a creative triumph. A mix of snacks, small plates and mains includes the likes of Butter, Garlic & Pepper Crab, Masala Mussels and Dory Ambot Tik. The traditional Indian flavours will be offset with an array of natural wines and sophisticated cocktails. 

Warm service, a groovy soundtrack and interiors that boast hand-painted murals, tiled archways and a dusty pink dining room, are the icing on the cake. 

1A Kellett Street, Potts Point 

Pocket Pizza Avalon 

Sydney favourite Pocket Pizza has opened up its third outpost, this time in Avalon, and we couldn't be more pleased about it! Avalon locals can now feast on antipasto (marinated olive, pork and fennel salami and beef carpaccio amongst others), as well as all the pizza you could ever want. Pair with Pocket Pizza's own draught or a limoncello spritz and you've got a very pleasant situation. 

1 Simmonds Lane, Avalon Beach 

Longshore

Seafood fans, hold onto your hats! Chippendale has just welcomed its first dedicated seafood restaurant and wine bar and it's everything we could have hoped for and more. The subtle coastal-inspired decor and lengthy wine lists are two huge drawcards but it's the menu that had stolen our hearts. 

The Longshore offering consists of a five-course tasting menu alongside an experimental 10-course snack menu served in two stages - hot and cold. Look forward to highlights including raw Tasmanian scallops with mandarin koshu and makrut lime and Paroo red kangaroo tartare with salted muntries. Be sure to keep that dessert chamber opened as there is plenty for you to sample. The melon custard with candied melon sounds like a bit of us. 

5 Kensington Street, Chippendale 

Hustlers (Image Credit: Kera Wong Photography) 

Hustlers 

If you like underground bars and Asian fusion dining then you're going to love new kids on the block, Hustlers. Innovation is the name of the game so you can expect some pretty clever dishes from Bone Marrow Mi Goreng to Hiramasa Kingfish Ceviche. The decor is inspired by secretive gambling dens so the lighting is low and the vibes high. Perfect for an evening of indulgence. 

Lower Ground, 24 York Street, Sydney 

Bar Morris

The brand-new Bar Morris is serving us art-deco chic AND a slice of Italian-Australian fusion and we love to see it. The intimate space seats 40 and is focused on seasonal produce, soulful tunes and Australian, Italian and natural wines. Head Chef Rosy Scatigna has reinvented Italian classics and will be serving the likes of Panfocaccia, flank steak served with Café de Morris butter and Nduja madeleine (a cheesy savoury sponge, enriched with silky guanciale and ‘nduja emulsion). 

As for the interiors, expect to be delighted. Rich red tones meet brass and peach marble. Splashes of velvet, leather-clad walls and natural wood flooring create a rich, luxurious and warm ambience. The whole experience is a real treat.

412 Pitt Street, Haymarket 

LuLu Bondi 

Bondi's beloved Raw Bar has a new little sister and her name is LuLu. This Asian fusion bar and kitchen is bringing all kinds of delicious bites and inventive bevvies to Bondi's bar scene. Expect a selection of raw plates, sashimi and sushi alongside Asian favourites in the form of small and large plates. Think Korean fried chicken, Doubanjiang Beef with Toppokki and Prawn Banh Mi. 

As for the interiors, you'll be kicking back with light and bright features including a marble bar, golden lights and rattan bar stools. 

75-79 Hall Street, Bondi

Bistro Nido 

French cuisine with a Japanese twist? Sounds like a match made in heaven! Bistro Nido has just landed and with it an array of delectable bites. The menu regularly shifts and changes with the seasons but you can expect the likes of Appellation rock oysters served with shiso jelly and charred kabocha pumpkin with nori pangrattato, and black sesame. 

501 George Street, Sydney 

Le Foote

It’s always a guaranteed good time when the Swillhouse team (Alberto’s Lounge, Restaurant Hubert, Shady Pines) put their trademark seal of innovation and experimentation on a new location and their latest project, Le Foote, has Sydneysiders stoked. 

Taking over 101 George Street - one of the oldest pubs in The Rocks, the team has transformed the charming yet ramshackle space into a European wine bar and restaurant. Alberto's Lounge head chef Dan Johnston has worked his magic on the menu, with goodies like cured meats and pickles and cheese, while the vibe will be buzzing thanks to live music, flowing beers on tap and al fresco dining. 

101 George Street, The Rocks

Oti

Sometimes life calls for pizza by the slice and a solid takeaway sandwich dealer. Oti has answered. Ideal for a lunchtime takeaway, quick dinner or late-night bite, Oti your new go-to for fresh, fast, satisfying Italian eats. Expect an ever-evolving menu with fillings ranging from smoked chicken and prosciutto to beef tongue. 

Shop 5 Palings Lane, 320 George Street, Sydney

Clam Bar

Clam Bar is serving immaculate boujee New York grill and it's all we've ever wanted. From the team behind Bistrot 916 and Pellegrino 2000, you can expect perfection from this newly opened restaurant. The freshest Australian seafood available is paired with decadent New York cocktails in a combination we adore. Giving just the right amount of 70s nostalgia, you can expect a raw bar stacked with caviar, seafood towers, a range of steaks and a classic cheeseburger. Get amongst it as soon as. 

44 Bridge Street, Sydney 

Me-Gal 

There's a new iconic Sydney restaurant in town and you'll find it located within Taronga Zoo. Me-Gal offers sweeping views of Sydney Harbour and a unique dining experience all at once. The restaurant is named after the Cammeraigal word for ‘tears’ and focuses on sustainably sourced produce, native flavours and seasonal dishes. Think Beetroot Risotto, Whipped Lemon Myrtle Ricotta, Watercress & Lemon Thyme and Stuffed Zucchini Flowers, Wattle Seed Ricotta, Macadamia Crumble & Butternut Squash Purée.

2A Bradleys Head Road, Mosman (enter via the Taronga Wildlife Retreat) 

Kame House

Kame House is a precious addition to Sydney's Japanese dining scene and a must-visit for any serious local foodies. Chef Tomo turned an undesirable situation on its head when his months worth of omakase bookings were cancelled due to COVID lockdowns. In response, he satisfied his customers authentic Japanese cravings by creating beautiful Chirashi boxes. Kame House is the response to these popular takeaways. 

Using rice imported directly from Japan, Chef Tomo is now serving up a range of delicacies from Kaisen don, chirashi and okonomi courses to takeaway oeschi ryouri bento boxes. Pop in for a dining experience to remember. 

729 Pacific Highway, Gordon

Armorica

Sydney is having a serious love affair with all things French right now and restauranteur Andrew Becher, of Franca and Parlar, knows it. Armorica is Sydney’s newest French offering and it’s sure to become a firm favourite amongst those who want more than just a great meal - they want an experience. Located on Crown St in Surry Hills, new 150-seat Parisian Brasserie pays homage to the city of lights, embracing the timeless charm of classic French dining, with that certain je ne sais quoi that only the French know how.

Executive chef, Jose Saulog has curated an extensive menu, with a nod to authentic techniques of Northern France whilst showcasing the best Aussie produce cooked over a traditional wood fire. The menu features small plates including a coral trout crudo with finger lime and Foie Gras ‘Torchon’ through to a lavish seafood tower - and of course, no French menu is complete without ‘Steak Frites’, featuring the best of Australian beef. Desserts are sorted thanks to group’s executive pastry chef Travin DeHoedt and the 400+ wine list has been carefully curated with each of the wines hand-selected for drinkability, above all else.

490 Crown Street, Surry Hills

Palazzo Salato 

A new opening from the good people who brought us Love Tilly Devine and Ragazzi, Palazzo Salato is set to be your new haunt for Italian feasting. The 120-seat venue is brimming with kitchen space which means an even wider variety of unique hand-shaped pasta, grilled meats and more. Diners will have the choice of the walk-in-only bar and the dining room, with interiors inspired by traditional Italian trattorias (that’s a relaxed Italian eatery to you and I). A 500-strong wine list rounds out the offering.  

201/203 Clarence Street, Sydney  

Spuntini 

Italian bistro food has to be up there with some of our favourite and when it's cooked by the good folk at Spuntini, even better. This casual eatery may be new on the scene but they are serving up some of the best Italian in town thanks to a strong focus on seasonal produce and, of course, some incredible chefs. Start with wood-fired house made focaccia before dining on antipasti, homemade pasta and some hearty mains. Finish with the Spuntini tiramisu if you know what's good for you. 

3/67 Frederick Street, Concord 

The Palms

The Palms combines the three things we cherish most - good eats, swish homewares and plenty of lush plants. It's the perfect place to while away a few hours with both breakfast and lunch options providing you with fuel to browse. The serene backdrop is ideal for a long lunch with shared plates making up the bulk of the menu. Think Sydney rock oysters, kingfish crudo and woodfired bread with a pepper margarita on the side. 

327 Mona Vale Road, Terrey Hills

Zaffi

A venue that stays open late with ceilings raised specifically to allow for dancing on tables has just arrived in Sydney CBD. Thrilled is an understatement. The ground floor offers up a curated selection of Australian-Lebanese mezze plates whilst downstairs, guests can find a jazzy pink bar open until 4am. Look forward to organic halloumi doused in locally sourced honey and Zaffi’s own Baklava soft serve.

10-14 Hunter Street, Sydney

Promenade Bondi Beach  

Creating a venue that feels luxe enough for a date night whilst also being appropriate for a beachside snack is no easy feat. But Promenade Bondi Beach is just that – a flexible space incorporating intimate dining spaces, a beachside terrace bar and a kiosk for those with sandy feet. Intrinsically nostalgic, Bondi Pavilion is home to the brand-new venue Promenade Bondi Beach which is set to be a go-to for visitors and locals alike.

The décor, inspired by the sandstone cliffs tucked around Australia’s most famous beach, is both neutral and soft. The menu has been carefully crafted by House Made Hospitality Culinary Director Stephen Seckold and Executive Chef Chris Benedet, with influences ranging from Indonesia to Sri Lanka. But one overarching theme ties it all together – food that’s best-enjoyed beachside. Expect reimagined classics from snapper curry to coral trout crudo. 

Opening March 8  

Shop 4 Bondi Pavilion, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach  

Brasserie 1930  

Traditional brasserie meets contemporary Australian fare – it’s a match made in heaven. The Bentley Group (Monopole, Cirrus, Yellow) is set to wow diners with Brasserie 1930’s unique menu, designed to share, utilizing a range of cooking methods from curing and smoking to charcoal grilling and fermenting. Your journey begins upon your entrance to Sydney’s historic sandstone precinct and culminates in the restaurant’s sophisticated dining room. Australian produce is championed throughout with finger lime, Murray Cod and local oysters set to grace diner’s plates.  

Capella Sydney, 2-4 Farrer Place, Sydney  

Fabbrica Pasta Bar At The Exchange Hotel 

If Fabbrica’s cacio e pepe holds a special place in your heart, you’ll be thrilled to learn that they’ll be taking up residence at the historic The Exchange Hotel in Balmain this March. This pasta bar pop-up is in town for the rest of 2023 and will be slinging old favourites as well as exciting new dishes including tonnarelli with sea urchin and mafdaline with ‘nduja. You can also expect an Italian-inspired pub schnitzel and cured meats sliced to order. As for drinks, we’re equally thrilled with the offering.  Think minimal-intervention Italian wines alongside eight on-tap brews.  

94 Beattie Street, Balmain  

Petermen

From the husband and wife duo behind Saint Peter, Fish Butchery and Charcoal Fish, comes Petermen. As chef Josh Niland and his restaurateur wife Julie Niland explain, they want to champion the most innovative growers and producers that seek to elevate the standard and change the culture of how we consume food, while highlighting the very best Australian seafood and vegetables. The menu is punchy and exciting with dishes like Eden line-caught John Dory, Jervis Bay mussels and Tasmanian saffron, Mooloolaba yellowfin tuna and ananda capers and sweet and sour Ulladulla blue mackerel catching our eye. 

Another bonus? There's an outstanding kids' menu if you're keen to check it out with your little one in tow. Treat them to the fancy BBQ fish, salad and chippies because you're never too young to start to appreciate good grub. 

66 Chandos Street, St Leonards

St Siandra

How does Seven spice Moreton Bay Bugs, “en brochette” skewers of Clarence River baby octopus and Skull Island tiger prawns washed down with spritzes on tap sound? Oh, and did we mention your own private beach to enjoy them? St Siandra is now open at The Spit on Sydney's North Shore. At the helm is former Nomad head chef Sam McCallum, who will be bringing his signature Mediterranean flare to the new beachfront restaurant and bar. On cocktail duties is Kurtis Bosley and the chic Amalfi Coast-style interiors were designed by Sally Taylor of Felix and Queen Chow Manly so you just know they'll be great for the 'gram. Oh, and don't worry, if you plan to arrive by boat (because why not), they will have two private moorings. 

75 Lower Parriwi Road, The Spit, Mosman 

Hanasuki

If you haven't yet had the joy of indulging in some shabu shabu, buckle up. New to Sydney's Japanese dining scene is Hanasuki, a dedicated shabu shabu joint. This speciality dish involves diners boiling a variety of thinly sliced meats, vegetables and noodles in a hot broth in what is an immersive dining experience. Even a millimetre of difference changes the taste and texture of this speciality dish so leave it to Chef Takashi to take you on your shabu shabu journey and give Hanasuki a visit. 

Shop 1, 18-26 Anderson Street, Chatswood

Beau & Dough

From the amazing minds behind NOMAD, the recently-opened Beau & Dough is already making waves in Surry Hills for all the right reasons. The clever concept sees the all-day venue Beau & Dough situated right next door to its wine bar counterpart, Beau Bar, which will open later in February.  

For breakfast and lunch, it's all about Manoush, which is a much-loved street food from the Middle East that is crispy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside, best served with lashings of olive oil and za’atar. If you really want to bulk up your breakky, try their manoush board - a rainbow bright mash-up of tomatoes, cucumber, pickles, labneh, sheep’s milk feta, olives and eggs. Wash it down with their Single O house blend coffee.

At night, the gorgeous laneway bar next door will have you weak at the knees with its offerings, including the kofta wrap, crispy onion rings with mullet roe emulsion and avruga, lobster thermidor, tomato saffron rice and their tahini parfait with chocolate biscuit and coffee ice-cream. The wine selection will showcase the best of local producers, including both experimental and boutique wines. 

52 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills

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.