The Best Restaurants in Sydney Right Now

Sydney’s best restaurants right now include Saint Peter in Paddington, Margaret in Double Bay, Bennelong at Circular Quay and Sixpenny in Stanmore — with strong new openings like The James and AORI rounding out the 2026 list.

Updated for 2026, this guide highlights where to eat right now — curated by Sitchu editors and refreshed regularly to reflect what’s genuinely worth booking.

Best New Restaurant Openings in Sydney

The James

Offering Sydneysiders a slice of British hospitality, The James boasts an elevated, textural dining room, on top of classic British dishes fused with seasonal Australian produce. Think roast fallow deer, dressed spanner crab and ploughman’s tartlettes.

Sitchu Tip: The beef Wellington is only available in limited quantities, so it’s worth calling ahead to secure yours.

Suburb: CBD
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: British
Best For: Group dining, Special occasion, Business lunch

Claret Club

Tucked within a Darlinghurst terrace, Claret Club offers a Euro-style wine bar downstairs and an intimate multi-course dining room upstairs. The relaxed atmosphere sets the scene for an afternoon wine that morphs into an unexpected tasting.

Sitchu Tip: The balcony offers a gorgeous leafy outset. If you’d like to score a table for yourself, leave a memo in your booking notes.

Suburb: Darlinghurst
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Wine bar
Best For: Date night, Wine lovers, Group dining

AORI

For when you’re craving exquisite sushi and sashimi alongside an energetic atmosphere, there’s AORI. A resident DJ booth sets the scene for energetic Saturday lunches, whilst a drinks menu that delves into the complexities of Japanese whisky, sake and theatrical cocktails keeps energy high.

Sitchu Tip: AORI offer two tableside cocktails that will add just the right amount of drama to your meal.

Suburb: CBD
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Japanese
Best For: Cocktail lovers, Group dining, Long lunch

Discover our full edit of Sydney’s best new restaurant openings for 2026 here.

The Best Restaurants for Dinner in Sydney

Ester

Helmed by acclaimed chef Matt Lindsay, Ester offers inventive modern Australian fare with a focus on share plates and fire-cooked delicacies. Seafood, meat and salad heavy, the dishes are exotic and full-flavoured while the fit-out is minimal and intimate.

Sitchu Tip: As Ester’s plates are largely share-style, this restaurant is best enjoyed with a small group.

Suburb: Chippendale
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Best For: Group dining, Long lunch, Weekend plans

Aalia

Whilst it’s not exclusively Lebanese, hatted restaurant Aalia draws inspiration from the Middle East and North Africa and highlights the best of each region. Start with elevated snacks and mezze before exploring the mains. Do not miss Aalia‘s dessert menu that features the likes of dates covered in caramelised chocolate, rice pudding ice cream and brown butter katifi. 

Suburb: CBD
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Best For: Business lunch, Group dining, Date night

Corner 75

Two of Sydney’s most beloved restaurants, Six Penny and Baba’s Place, have joined forces to resurrect a staple of Randwick’s dining scene, Corner 75. The collaboration has been described as a ‘preservation project’ that has seen the protection of the eclectic interiors as well as the traditional menu, which have both been beloved by locals for over 40 years. The Hungarian menu boasts lesser-known delights ranging from lángos (deep-fried dough and sour cream) to traditional crepes and schnitzel.

Suburb: Randwick
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: European
Best For: Locals, Group dining, Date night

The Best Restaurants With a View in Sydney

Whalebridge 

For unrivalled harbour views (Opera House and Harbour Bridge included) head to Whalebridge for a French feast. This dreamy restaurant is proof that killer views can be rivalled by an incredible menu. Watch the ferries go by as you sup on French onion soup and steak frittes.

Suburb: Circular Quay
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: French
Best For: Waterfront, Date night, Long lunch

Sails

This airy harbourside dining room has been delighting locals and visitors with its uncompromisingly high-quality fare for over 40 years. With an emphasis on fresh seafood, the menu at Sails takes a contemporary interpretation of classic French cooking techniques and is paired with the best of local produce. The revamped interiors are the coastal backdrop of our dreams.

Suburb: Lavender Bay
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Seafood
Best For: Waterfront, Long lunch, Group dining

The Best Waterfront Restaurants in Sydney

Catalina Rose Bay

Perched on the waters of glimmering Rose Bay, Catalina has been serving impeccable cuisine to the well-to-do since 1994. An extensive (and awarded) wine list is teamed expertly alongside a healthy smattering of cocktails while freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters keep the seafood-smitten happy. 

Suburb: Rose Bay
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Seafood
Best For: Special occasion, Long lunch, Waterfront

Icebergs

Perfectly placed to take advantage of Bondi’s delicious sea air, the Dining Room offers an evolving menu based on regional Italian cuisine. Seasonal cured meats are available alongside antipasti, and the kangaroo agnolotti. The Icebergs tasting menu is a safe option if missing out just isn’t going to work for you.

Suburb: Bondi
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Italian
Best For: Date night, Waterfront, Weekend plans

Explore the rest of Sydney’s best waterfront restaurants.

Best Restaurants for a Special Occasion in Sydney

Saint Peter

Consistently ranked among the best restaurants in both Australia and the world, Saint Peter has brought seafood into the modern age. Chef Josh Niland’s innovative menus are dotted with rare treats, including dry-aged cuts, inventive head-to-tail dishes and even fish charcuterie.

Sitchu Tip: For a more accessible taste of Saint Peter — without the wait or the price tag — the Saint Peter Bar is your best bet. No booking required.

Suburb: Paddington
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Seafood
Best For: Special occasion, Date night, Weekend plans

Bennelong

Celebrated Australian chef, Peter Gilmore (from the three-hatted stunner, Quay) is at the helm of Bennelong, one of Sydney’s most picturesque fine dining experiences. The epic location sets this establishment apart, sitting within the iconic sails of the Sydney Opera House taking full advantage of its multi-level layout to ensure every patron takes in a full view. 

Much like its famous landmark surroundings, the menu is aptly Australian, championing local produce and wine. Whether you opt for the Chef’s Tasting Menu, the three-course à la carte or an indulgent pre-theatre meal, this will be a meal to remember. 

Sitchu Tip: If you can, time your visit with golden hour for the most picturesque views.

Suburb: Circular Quay
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Best For: Special occasion, Date night, Weekend plans

Sixpenny

This understated three-hat restaurant offers a single menu that encompasses up to seven courses. Each morsel has been constructed to highlight seasonal delicacies to be enjoyed with or without paired beverages.

Sitchu Tip: The Temperance Pairing is a great way to soak up more of Sixpenny’s handmade goodies with plenty of fermented and non-alcoholic beverages.

Suburb: Stanmore
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Best For: Special occasion, Date night, Wine lovers

Aria

Chef Matt Moran’s premier offering, Aria pairs fine dining with expansive views out across Sydney Harbour. As one of Sydney’s most sought-after bookings, it’s worth getting in early for a seat.

Sitchu Tip: If you’re looking to enjoy Aria at a reduced price, consider heading in for lunch.

Suburb: Circular Quay
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Best For: Special occasion, Date night, Waterfront

Best Restaurants for Lunch in Sydney

Margaret

Recognised as one of the world’s best steak restaurants, Margaret is the jewel in the crown of Neil Perry’s restaurant family. The elevated space, with seating spilling out onto the pavement Parisian-style, is the perfect backdrop for a special occasion meal that will linger long after the last bite.

Sitchu Tip: For a pre or post meal drink, be sure to check out the restaurant group’s aperitivo bar Grand Torino, located just a few doors away.

Suburb: Double Bay
Price Guide: $$$
Cuisine: Steakhouse
Best For: Special occasion, Long lunch, Weekend plans

Dunes

The epitome of luxury coastal dining, Dunes specialises in simple yet elevated seafood within a soothing setting. Envisage freshly shucked oysters with fresh lemon, zingy glasses of wine and pan-seared market fish.

Sitchu Tip: Pack your swimmers! Dunes is just minutes from the beach.

Suburb: Palm Beach
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Seafood
Best For: Weekend plans, Group dining, Waterfront

Bobby’s

Seaside dining at its most literal, Bobby’s offers a chance for diners to sup on Mediterranean share-plates whilst people watching until their heart’s content. Mere steps from the ocean, your meal will be paired with a salty breeze and the sounds of the sea.

Sitchu Tip: If you’re dining in a pair, grab a spot at the bar looking out over the ocean. It’s a great spot for people watching.

Suburb: Cronulla
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Best For: Weekend plans, Date night, Waterfront

North Bondi Fish

With views out across Sydney’s most famous beach, North Bondi Fish combines Australia’s love of seafood with priceless views. Dine in to slurp oysters and munch on fish tacos, or take some classic fish and chips down to the beach for a picture-perfect picnic.

Sitchu Tip: Ask your waiter for recommendations on the market specials.

Suburb: Bondi
Cuisine: Seafood
Price Guide: $$
Best For: Weekend plans, Long lunch, Waterfront

Shell House

This multi-level venue is a go-to for everything from evening drinks to long lunches. The variety of spaces offers the opportunity to indulge in a progressive feast, as you make your way from terrace drinks to lush bowls of pasta in the dining room.

Suburb: CBD
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Modern Australian
Best For: Date night, Long lunch, Group dining

Discover our full edit of the best restaurants in Sydney for lunch here.

Best Affordable and Casual Restaurants in Sydney

Fabbrica

Handmade pasta, seasonal sauces and an impeccable wine list are the sweet and simple recipe Fabbrica operates by. With locations including the CBD and Newtown, Fabbrica spreads the love across Sydney.

Sitchu Tip: If you fall in love with Fabbrica, you can purchase takeaway pasta and sauce kits to recreate your favourite dishes at home.

Suburb: Various Sydney locations
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Italian
Best For: Quick bite, Wine lovers, Locals

Olympic Meats

Favoured for its low-key, authentic kebabs and fire-cooked Greek dishes, this Marrickville stalwart is always buzzing. Get in early for their generous, affordable serves, as they often sell out.

Suburb: Marrickville
Price Guide: $
Cuisine: Greek
Best For: Weekend plans, Quick bite, Budget-friendly

Continental Deli

For when plates of fresh tomatoes, butter beans and decadent deli sandwiches are the craving of the day, there’s Continental Deli. It’s only right to wash your meal down with one of the restaurant’s famed canned cocktails.

Sitchu Tip: If you’re celebrating something special, consider booking a night at Paisano & Daughters Australia Street Suites, owned by the Continental team. The luxury suite comes stocked with your own selection of Continental Deli canned goodies and condiments.

Suburb: Newtown
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Italian
Best For: Date night, Weekend plans, Cocktail lovers

Homer Rogue Taverna

This South Sydney gem offers home-style Greek dishes in a sleek and pared-back industrial dining room. Expect a fun drinks menu, packed with fresh cocktails, Greek beers and plenty of ouzo, paired with the likes of casseroles, rotisserie goodies and scrumptious small plates.

Sitchu Tip: Homer’s boasts a walk-in wine fridge that dares diners to ditch the list and choose their own adventure.

Suburb: Cronulla
Price Guide: $$
Cuisine: Greek
Best For: Locals, Group dining, Date night

Best Restaurants by Area or Neighbourhood in Sydney

Best Restaurants in Surry Hills

Surry Hills is one of Sydney’s most elevated dining precincts, host to regular new openings, wine bars and neighbourhood haunts. Sitchu favourites include Pellegrino 2000, White Horse, Chin Chin and Nour. View the full edit of the best restaurants in Surry Hills here.

Best Restaurants in the Sutherland Shire

With a penchant for family-friendly restaurants, the Sutherland Shire is a mecca for elevated, casual eats. Established family-owned favourites like Jensen’s and Sealevel sit side by side with beloved newcomers Bobby’s and Homer. Find our full edit of the best restaurants in the Sutherland Shire here.

Best Restaurants on the North Shore

The North Shore boasts a veritable mix of upscale restaurants, many with waterfront views, alongside a selection of longstanding classics. Occasion restaurants like Bathers Pavillion and Ormeggio at The Spit are North Shore staples, as well as more casual restaurants like Mamak and Mama Mulan. Take a look at our full edit of the best restaurants on the North Shore here.

Best Restaurants in the Inner West

One of Sydney’s most diverse offerings, the Inner West provides an eclectic mix of eateries ranging from cult pizza and pasta to Middle Eastern mezze. A single week could see you dining at low-key Middle-Eastern Cairo Takeaway, elevated steakhouse 20 Chapel and self-proclaimed purveyors of ‘Inner West Cuisine’ and local icon Baba’s Place. View the full edit of the best restaurants in the Inner West here.

Best Restaurants in the CBD

Central, convenient and abundant, Sydney’s CBD is home to everything from the city’s most lavish fine dining to cult casual classics. A gathering place for Sydneysiders everywhere, favourites include Bistecca, Grill Americano and Aalia. Find a full edit of the best restaurants in Sydney’s CBD here.

The Best Restaurants in Paddington

Home to Sydney’s most stylish set, Paddington boasts an array of premium restaurants with a curated yet laidback atmosphere. A visit is incomplete without a booking at one of the world’s best seafood restaurants, Saint Peter. You can find our full edit of the best restaurants in Paddington here.

The Best Restaurants in Western Sydney

Western Sydney’s rich and diverse culinary scene reflects Australia’s multicultural fabric. Here, you’ll find some of Sydney’s best Middle Eastern food at competitive prices. Iftar and Misc offer a sleek backdrop to some of the best mezze-fuelled feasts in the city. Find our full edit of the best restaurants in Western Sydney here.

The Best Restaurants in Bondi

Bondi is where Sydneysiders go when they’re craving relaxed coastal dining, with a particular emphasis on seafood. The beach itself is the centre of the action, hemmed by some of Bondi’s most beloved haunts — Bondi Icebergs, North Bondi Fish and Etheus. Find our full edit of the best restaurants in Bondi right here.

The Best Restaurants in Barangaroo

This harbour-side haven is one of Sydney’s most prestigious dining precincts. Barangaroo’s offering leans premium, hosting some of the city’s glitziest venues. Annamese, a’Mare, Woodcut and Golden Century are just a few of our favourites. View the full edit of the best restaurants in Barangaroo here.

The Best Restaurants in the Northern Beaches

Increasingly known for its wealth of destination fine diners, this coastal area of Sydney is worth a detour. The Northern Beaches stretch from Manly in the south to Palm Beach in the North. Relaxed yet elevated dining is the order of the day here, with local favourites including Cibaria, Pocket Pizza, Pilu at Freshwater and Dunes Palm Beach. You’ll find our full edit of the best restaurants in the Northern Beaches here.

The Best Restaurants in North Sydney

North Sydney offers one of Sydney’s most diverse food offerings, with a pan-Asian focus and penchant for casual takeway and eat in restaurants. When you’re craving something a little fancier, head to French bistro LouLous or hatted modern Australian restaurant Poetica. You can find our full edit of the best restaurants in North Sydney here.

Best Restaurants by Cuisine in Sydney

The Best Italian Restaurants in Sydney

Sydneysiders sure do love their Italian, whether it’s in the form of handmade pasta or local pizza shops — every neighbourhood has its local. Leichhardt is commonly known as Sydney’s ‘Little Italy’ and always a safe bet when your craving kicks in. The CBD is also another top choice with standouts including a’Mare, Pellegrino 2000, Kindred and Ragazzi. From refined trattorias to casual pasta bars, you can view our full edit of the best Italian restaurants in Sydney here.

The Best Japanese Restaurants in Sydney

Sydney is home to an array of Japanese institutions, from intimate omakase to cult ramen bars. Those looking for all the bells and whistles should head into Nobu, whilst a great low-key offering can be found at Rising Sun Workshop and RaRa Ramen. View the full edit of the best Japanese restaurants in Sydney here.

The Best Mexican Restaurants in Sydney

There’s no one place to go in Sydney when your cravings for Mexican food hits. For birris tacos, head to Radio Taco in Chippendale and for Oaxacan cuisine, book a table at Santa Catarina in the CBD. Looking for tamales? Tamaleira & Mexican Deli in Dulwich Hill is an institution. Find our full edit of the best Mexican restaurants in Sydney here.

The Best French Restaurants in Sydney

French fare is a staple of Sydney’s culinary scene, with understated bistros spilling out of the CBD to all corners of the city. Bistro Moncur in Woollahra is one of our weekend favourites, and it has been for well over 30 years. If it’s front-row seats to Sydney’s glittering harbour you’re after, book a table at Whalebridge. Up North? LouLou’s is a non-negotiable. From bistros to brassieres, find our full edit of the best French restaurants in Sydney here.

The Best Greek Restaurants in Sydney

Sydney’s appetite for Greek food is unmatched. From the much-lauded Olympus to the sell-out superstar Olympic Meats, there’s a feast for all budgets here. Find everything from beachside souvlaki to full-scale feasts within our edit of the best Greek restaurants in Sydney.

The Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Sydney

Sydney is home to a rich tapestry of flavours from Jordan, Lebanon, Israel, Palestine, Syria, Cyprus, and more. Such a diverse offering means food at all price points, from the no-frills favourite Cairo Takeaway to sleek and stylish Iftar in Merrylands. Find the finest Middle Eastern cuisine the city has to offer within our edit of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Sydney.

The Best Indian Restaurants in Sydney

You’ll find local Indian restaurants dotted throughout every suburb in Sydney, with every Sydneysider claiming their local is the best. You don’t need to spend a lot to grab a great spread but when you do feel like splurging, consider Don’t Tell Aunty in Surry Hills and Urban Tadka in Surry Hills. From authentic and traditional neighbourhood mainstays to Australian-Indian hybrid cuisine, these are the best Indian restaurants in Sydney.

The Best Chinese Restaurants in Sydney

From san choy bao and sizzling stir-fries to fine dining and retro bistros, Sydney boasts an array of Chinese specialists. Head to Haymarket for cheap and cheerful or straight to Barrangaroo for Sydney’s best-known Chinese restaurant, Golden Century. Find our favourites within our edit of the best Chinese restaurants in Sydney.

Frequently Asked Questions: The Best Restaurants in Sydney

What are the best restaurants in Sydney right now?

This changes regularly, but Bennelong, Saint Peter and Sixpenny consistently rank among the city’s top bookings. If you’d like to reserve a table, it is recommended to get in touch a few weeks in advance.

If you’re looking for something more specific, we recommend Margaret for steak, The James for something new and fresh, and Aria for fine dining. For destinations outside of the CBD, consider Dunes in Palm Beach, Homer Rogue Taverna in Sydney’s South and Corner 75 in Randwick.

What is the best seafood restaurant in Sydney?

Saint Peter in Paddington is widely considered Sydney’s best seafood restaurant, and one of the best in the world. Chef Josh Niland is known for his head-to-tail approach to seafood, including dry-aged fish, fish charcuterie, and rare cuts rarely seen on menus elsewhere.

If you’re unable to secure a booking at Saint Peter, or would like to sample the cutting-edge seafood recipes Chef Josh Niland is renowned for at a more approachable price point, you can get a walk-in table at the Saint Peter Bar where dishes like the cult Yellowfin tuna burger grace the menu.

Where is the best restaurant for a special occasion in Sydney?

For a special occasion in Sydney, top choices include Bennelong inside the Sydney Opera House for seasonal menus and world-class views, Sixpenny in Stanmore (a three-hat restaurant with a seven-course degustation), Aria at Circular Quay with harbour views, and Margaret in Double Bay, recognised as one of the world’s best steak restaurants.

It is recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance for this calibre of restaurant.

For restaurants at a slightly lower price point that still suit a special occasion, the chef-hatted Aalia in the CBD and harbour-view Sails in the CBD are top picks.

What are the best new restaurant openings in Sydney in 2026?

Sydney’s best new restaurant openings in 2026 include The James in the CBD, a refined British dining room serving seasonal Australian produce alongside classic dishes like beef Wellington and dressed spanner crab; Claret Club in Darlinghurst, a Euro-style wine bar with an intimate multi-course dining room upstairs; and AORI in the CBD, a high-energy Japanese restaurant serving exquisite sushi and fresh sashimi alongside Japanese whisky, sake and theatrical tableside cocktails. Each brings something distinct to Sydney’s already dynamic dining scene.

What are the best cheap eats and casual restaurants in Sydney?

Sydney’s best casual dining options span cuisines and neighbourhoods. In Marrickville, Olympic Meats is beloved for its authentic, affordable Greek kebabs and fire-cooked dishes. Fabbrica, with locations in the CBD and Newtown, serves exceptional handmade pasta at reasonable prices. Continental Deli in Newtown is a go-to for deli sandwiches, share plates and famed canned cocktails. For home-style Greek in the Sutherland Shire, Homer Rogue Taverna delivers rotisserie dishes and small plates in a relaxed industrial space. Sydney’s casual dining scene proves that great food doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.

Where should I eat in Sydney for lunch?

Sydney has no shortage of stellar lunch spots. For coastal dining, North Bondi Fish serves fresh oysters and fish tacos with iconic Bondi Beach views, while Bobby’s in Cronulla offers Mediterranean share plates mere steps from the ocean. Dunes in Palm Beach is the epitome of relaxed yet elevated seaside seafood. In the CBD, Shell House is a reliable go-to for long lunches, with pasta and terrace drinks on offer. For something more special, Margaret in Double Bay and Aria at Circular Quay both offer exceptional value lunch menus in world-class surrounds.

What is the best restaurant in Sydney for steak?

Margaret in Double Bay is widely regarded as the best restaurant in Sydney for steak, and one of the best steak restaurants in the world. Helmed by acclaimed chef Neil Perry, the restaurant’s elegant dining room — with seating spilling onto the pavement Parisian-style — makes it an ideal setting for a special occasion. The elevated menu and impeccable service more than justify the splurge. For pre or post-dinner drinks, the restaurant group’s aperitivo bar Grand Torino is located just a few doors away, making for a seamless and memorable night out.

What is a good Sydney restaurant for groups?

Sydney has plenty of excellent options for group dining. The James in the CBD is a strong pick, offering elevated British fare — think beef Wellington and dressed spanner crab — in a dramatic, textural dining room built for a occasion. AORI in the CBD brings an energetic atmosphere with exquisite Japanese sushi and sashimi, tableside cocktails and a resident DJ. For share-style dining, Ester in Chippendale is a natural fit, with its fire-cooked share plates and inventive seasonal menu perfect for groups who love to try a little of everything.

What are the best restaurants in Sydney's CBD?

Sydney’s CBD punches well above its weight when it comes to dining. Aalia is a standout, serving hatted Middle Eastern and North African-inspired cuisine with an exceptional dessert menu. For new openings, The James delivers elevated British cooking with a seasonal Australian twist, while AORI brings high-energy Japanese dining with theatrical cocktails and a resident DJ. Shell House is a reliable multi-level venue ideal for everything from terrace drinks to long lunches. Fabbrica rounds out the offering with handmade pasta and an impeccable wine list at a more accessible price point.

Do I need to book ahead?

For Sydney’s top restaurants, yes you will need to book and often further in advance than you’d expect. Places like Saint Peter, Bennelong and Sixpenny book out weeks ahead, particularly for weekend dinners. Newer openings like The James are filling up fast too. As a general rule: if it’s a weekend, a special occasion, or somewhere you’ve seen buzzing on social media, book early. For a more spontaneous night out, Continental Deli, Olympic Meats and the Saint Peter Bar are more reliable walk-in options.

Writer

Olivia Storrie

19 June 2026

Armed with an Arts Degree in History and Psychology from the University of Sydney, a natural curiosity and a ravenous appetite, Olivia is your go-to for restaurant recommendations across the city. She also has a keen interest in hiking, patting other people’s dogs, travelling, curating her maximalist home and reading every book she can get her hands on.