Vivid Sydney 2023Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoys food and drink at DOPA, Donburi and Milk Bar, Vivid Sydney 2023.
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From wonder-inducing light displays, thought-provoking discussions and experiences, music that moves, and the best of the world's cuisines, Vivid Sydney offers full sensory immersion.
Key to this is Vivid Sydney’s Food program, which serves up an opportunity for both visitors and locals to gather, try something new and connect over a meal before heading out to be wowed by Light, Music and Ideas.
To help you feast, snack and refuel your way through the 23 nights of the festival, we’ve pulled together the top unmissable food experiences for Vivid Sydney 2024 below.
Travel the globe via your fork at Vividplace Food Trail
Step into a bustling night market in the pedestrianised laneways of Sydney Place and Bulletin Place for VividPlace Food Trail. There you can explore over 20 cafes, restaurants, and bars serving up their delicious fare until late.
Mi goreng toasties, rare Japanese whiskey, fresh-churned gelato, one-off Vivid Sydney specials – try it all amid vibrant light at this pop-up market. Stop in before or after catching the spectacle of the nearby Light Walk.
Enjoy the sizzle and smoke of Vivid Fire Kitchen
As humans, we’re drawn to fire – there’s something special about the flavour of food that’s been perfectly cooked using this primal source of heat. Smoky, succulent, crisp, caramelised – there’s nothing quite like it. That’s why Vivid Fire Kitchen is a must visit.
Food trucks, markets and barbecue stands will serve the best Filipino, Spanish, Sudanese, Lebanese, Greek, Mexican, Italian dishes, and much more.
Once you’ve had your fill of fire, it’s time for ice(-cream). Pop over to Messina Milk Bar for a classic Australian milk bar treat given a fun twist by the cult-favourite gelato brand. Not up for gelato? Grab some flame-kissed s’mores or a fresh Berliner doughnut back in the heat of the Fire Kitchen action.
Dorian Restaurant Credit: Dorian Restaurant
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
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Dorian Restaurant Credit: Dorian Restaurant
Fred's x Max Coen, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple warms up at Vivid Fire Kitchen, Vivid Sydney 2023. Vivid Fire Kitchen brings together Sydney's hottest dining concepts with local and internationally-acclaimed pitmasters and a collection of the finest NSW producers, curated drinks and fire-inspired cocktails for three weeks of flame-fuelled festivities
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Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple warms up at Vivid Fire Kitchen, Vivid Sydney 2023. Vivid Fire Kitchen brings together Sydney's hottest dining concepts with local and internationally-acclaimed pitmasters and a collection of the finest NSW producers, curated drinks and fire-inspired cocktails for three weeks of flame-fuelled festivities
Snap, sample and sip at Aster
For those wanting an elevated Vivid Sydney experience, Aster offers an unrivalled view AND offering. Perched high within the InterContinental Sydney, this rooftop bar boasts panoramic views and a Vivid Sydney-exclusive menu that champions sustainability and innovation. Delight in the bespoke cocktails and a special two-course meal as you observe the Light Walk from this incredible vantage point. Plus, you’ll be able to post the best ‘gram going.
Luxurious experiences under $55
Vivid Sydney is all about offering experiences for all to enjoy, no matter the taste or budget. This year, you can sit at the bar at Sydney Opera House's iconic Bennelong Bar and enjoy a special snack and drink by Peter Gilmore for $55. A Vivid Sydney exclusive opportunity to experience what The New York Times dubbed the “holy grail of Australian restaurants” for an incredible price point.
If you’d prefer a full meal but still want the stunning views (and excellent price point) head to House Canteen for Taste, See, Connect. Here you can sit right below the Sydney Opera House sails and enjoy a pan-Asian feast. Dumplings, sushi, share plates, dessert and an incredible view of the harbour painted with Vivid Sydney lights. All for $49! Amazing value, in one of the best Vivid Sydney vantage points.
Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying food and drinks at Aster Bar at the InterContinental Sydney during Vivid Sydney 2023
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Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying food and drinks at Aster Bar at the InterContinental Sydney during Vivid Sydney 2023
Chin Chin, Go Go Room, Surry Hills Credit: Destination NSW
During Vivid Sydney 2023, Chin Chin guests enjoy Play with your Dinner, a unique food experience where everything is art and (almost) everything is edible.
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Chin Chin, Go Go Room, Surry Hills Credit: Destination NSW
During Vivid Sydney 2023, Chin Chin guests enjoy Play with your Dinner, a unique food experience where everything is art and (almost) everything is edible.
Dine with purpose
This year you can dine and make a difference at Vivid Sydney with Plates with Purpose – A Taste of Ukraine and Our Shared Humanity. At Kyiv Social’s Plates with Purpose, you can immerse yourself in Ukrainian culture and cuisine with a 10-course degustation. Here, each delicious mouthful will help support Ukrainian refugees through Plate it Forward.
Or dine at Refettorio OzHarvest for Our Shared Humanity where top chefs like Alex Prichard, Darren Robertson, Orazio D’Elia and more create innovative, delicious vegetarian fare from rescued ingredients, all while helping feed Sydney's vulnerable communities.
Discover something new!
There are plenty of hidden gems scattered like pomegranate seeds across the Vivid Sydney Food program. One of the most dazzling though, has to be Atelier by Sofitel, where a French-inspired menu and an unexpected view of the Light Walk await. Seen from the Darling Harbour point of view, the vantage point here allows you to take in a lesser seen perspective of the stunning Vivid Sydney lights. You’ll also walk away with a bespoke booklet packed with stories, chef anecdotes and the recipes from your meal. A sensory experience to treasure for years to come.
The VividPlace Food Trail and Vivid Fire Kitchen will both be a smorgasbord of interesting and new dishes from around the globe, in particular you’ll be able to sample street food sandwiches from Sudan at Vivid Fire Kitchen and elevated Korean omakase at the Food Trail. Plus, the Messina Milk Bar will be serving up their Vivid Sydney exclusive warm Milo fudge sundae, so get your spoons ready. If you’re into fusion food and keen to try something new, catch Mitch Orr for Our Shared Humanity. The Kiln head chef is well known for his creative, unexpected and delicious combinations and he’ll be sure to turn this vegetarian menu on its head.
From local favourites to international delicacies, Vivid Sydney Food is a chance to explore, connect and indulge. So, grab your mates, dates or relates and set off on a culinary adventure that's as dazzling as the lights of Vivid Sydney.
The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
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The Charles Brasserie Credit: Steven Woodburn
The Charles Brasserie & Bar x Sally Abe, as part of the Vivid Chef Series in Vivid Food.
Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying food and drinks in the House of Naturalia at Barangaroo House during Vivid Sydney 2023. Inspired by Vivid Sydney's 'Naturally' theme, Barangaroo House is transforming into the 'House of Naturalia'. Expect sustainable cocktails, a custom menu by Head Chef Tara Chua centred on the natural world, and projections that highlight rewilding conservation efforts.
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Vivid Sydney 2023 Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying food and drinks in the House of Naturalia at Barangaroo House during Vivid Sydney 2023. Inspired by Vivid Sydney's 'Naturally' theme, Barangaroo House is transforming into the 'House of Naturalia'. Expect sustainable cocktails, a custom menu by Head Chef Tara Chua centred on the natural world, and projections that highlight rewilding conservation efforts.
More Inspirational Stories
Murray Rose Pool, Double BayCredit: Destination NSW
Harbour views from Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
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Connect with the true essence of Sydney by mingling with the friendly locals and discovering the vibrant energy that defines the city. Beyond its stunning landmarks, Sydney invites you to experience its warmth and charm.
Showstopping At Royal Randwick
Dress to Impress at Royal Randwick Racecourse for a Saturday at the races during the Sydney Everest Carnival. Don’t miss the fresh new destination, the Peacock Lounge in the Winx Stand at Royal Randwick. For five exclusive days only, the Peacock Lounge will be the place to be to elevate your race day
Don't miss the fresh new destination, the Peacock Lounge in the Winx Stand at Royal Randwick. For five exclusive days only, the Peacock Lounge will be the place to be this Carnival to elevate your raceday.
Check out the open air Theatre Of The Horse to watch the racehorses' parade with their jockeys in vibrant racing silks before the competition .Then hit the rose garden for further festivities, this time it’s all about preening and social media.
For post-race shenanigans, join racegoers at one of Paddington’s watering holes including the rooftop at The Light Brigade, The Royal Hotel at Fiveways or The Paddington, which boasts some excellent dining options. Alternatively, saddle up for a pasta blowout at fashionable Paddington institution, 10 William Street.
Salute the Dawn at Bronte Beach
The 440 Run Club is a free Saturday morning running club that is open to everyone at any fitness level. Meet in the park in front of Bronte Beach in the dark, and join a crew of all ages and backgrounds to run, jog or even walk up and down a hill in a continuous loop. Sunrise over this beautiful beach never looked so good.
Afterwards go cafe hopping at the beachside strip and nabone of the outdoor tables for pinch yourself views. The Bogey Hole Cafe is a great place to start.
If you’re still full of beans, do the stunning Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk Follow the scenic pathway back to Bondi or go further afield to another action-packed beach suburb, Coogee. This is also where you’ll find one of Sydney’s Insta-famous restaurants, Mimi’s.
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick Credit: Destination NSW
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick 2014..
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The Championship Races, Royal Randwick Credit: Destination NSW
The Championship Races, Royal Randwick 2014..
Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
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Bronte Beach, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Surfer heading out to catch a wave at Bronte Beach, Sydney.
Go Boho In Bondi
Sydney’s famous Bondi has plenty of trophy hang outs including Icebergs Dining Room and the Promenade ,but it also has a Boho beating heart. At North Bondi (which is where the locals swim), refill at heritage cafe, Speedos or drop into the laid back Bondi RSL filled with interesting characters and extraordinary views of the beach.
Explore the shopping thoroughfare of Gould Street with signature store, Tuchuzy and keep walking all the way to the Bondi Farmer’s Market
Other boho outposts include Gertrude & Alice bookstore and cafe on Hall Street, Up South on Bondi Road, Bondi Tony’s for Aussie Burgers in Glenayr Avenue, and Shop & Wine Bar in Curlewis Street Bondi.
Heritage, Art and Harbourside Delights
Sydney’s Parliament House, steeped in colonial history, is open to the public every Monday and Friday. The Legislative Assembly chamber (also known as the bear pit) is the place where laws are made with vigorous debate. Afterwards take a stroll across the Domain, spread out in front of you like a green carpet to the Art Gallery Of NSW. Head to the newly opened and architecturally amazing North Wing - Naala Badu - for lunch at MOD. Dining by Clayton Wells.
Then cool down and at the nearby spectacular, enclosed Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool, set into the harbour where you can swim while taking in the yachts and ferries on the other side of the glass.
Finish your day with some soothing drinks at the Library of NSW rooftop bar or head across the road to the Intercontinental Hotel’s scenic Aster Bar for cocktails accompanied by stunning views right down the harbour.
Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
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Bondi Icebergs, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Aerial view of Bondi Icebergs and surrounds, Bondi
Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
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Art Gallery of New South Wales, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a visit the the Art Gallery of New South Wales in Sydney.
Pining for Manly
Board the Manly Ferry for the 30-minute voyage to Manly - the beachside suburb, ringed with ancient Norfolk Pine trees where it always seems to be holiday time.
Check into the newly revamped Manly Pacific Hotel with its opulent appointments but fairly modest rates. You could also consider Pepper’s Manly Beach, which also just across the road from this prime surf spot. The Corso runs from the Harbour side to the beachside and offers interesting eateries including Butter Boy for their famous cookies baked on the spot. Next door is Norma’s Deli for excellent sandwiches, cakes, and traditional Greek spreads.
Go for a stroll to Shelly Beach where you may encounter some harmless Eastern Water Dragons sun baking on the rocks along the way and ready for their close up. Dip into the water at the beach or the ocean pool then head to The Boathouse where you order at the bar and find your own table. Dine on everything from pizza and salads to fish and chips to get a real taste of Manly.
Spa It Up In Double Bay
Double Bay is Sydney’s most luxe village. It boasts plenty of hair salons along with decadent day spas, excellent shopping and five-star restaurants and bars.Head to All Saint Clinic founded by one of Australia’s best aesthetic skin doctors for pure indulgence where the treatment menu includes the Fire & Ice facial.
Next visit the famous Joh Bailey Salon for a blow out or head to La Boutique in Transvaal Avenue, where owner Belinda Jeffries is the blonde whisperer.
Celebrate the newly refreshed you with a lunch at Margaret Double Bay, owned by prestigious Icon Awards winner, Neil Perry. Take an outdoor table to make your own contribution to Double Bay’s street life, then duck downstairs to the newly opened cocktail bar, Bobbie’s.
You could also have a drink on the deck at a popular locals’ hang out, the 18 Footers Bar Restaurant & Cafe, which is right next to the Double Bay Ferry Wharf. It’s the perfect spot to watch the sun setting over the harbour and then hop on a ferry back to Circular Quay.
Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
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Manly Pacific Credit: Manly Pacific
Coastal Suites at Manly Pacific Bedroom
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.
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Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.