Quay Credit: Nikki To
Quay is the creation of leading Australian restaurant group, Fink, and Executive Chef Peter Gilmore.
#feelnewsydney
With landmark restaurants serving world-class culinary creativity and iconic views, fine dining in Sydney is a feast for every sense. Here, 10 standout eateries where legendary chefs, choice local ingredients and picturesque panoramas come together to serve the ultimate feel-new dining experience on the harbour.
Bennelong, Sydney Opera House
With its gleaming pearly sails, few places inspire like the Opera House – and Bennelong offers an insider’s perspective of its stately chambers, along with the best front-on view of the Harbour Bridge. Taste the city’s timeless rhythm as Executive Chef Peter Gilmore celebrates the Aboriginal cultural significance of the restaurant’s location with an award-winning three-course à la carte menu, and the very best Australian wine.
Quay
Revel in the exclusive atmosphere as your frameable Opera House view is enhanced by the picturesque procession of ferries pulling into Circular Quay. Indulge in the legendary eight-course degustation which highlights local delicacies like black-lipped abalone, paired with a standout selection of prestige wines expertly curated by Head Sommelier, Wilem Powell.
Aria
Your palate sings as you savour Aria’s seasonal flavours – all enhanced by the art-filled dining room’s sweeping vistas of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. One of Australia’s most awarded restaurants, Aria’s signature tasting menu is helmed by executive chef Tom Gorringe and showcases the finest local ingredients, including Gundagai lamb and Wollemi duck.
Café Sydney
Be energised as Circular Quay’s bustle and colour add an extra layer of sparkle to this legendary eatery’s extensive views of all the harbour’s icons. Located atop Customs House with a spectacular outdoor terrace and sophisticated dining room, Café Sydney is renowned for its seafood, fine-dining vegan menu and Nipanit Intraroon’s playful desserts – keep an eye out for the Passionfruit Lemon Tart and the Black Sesame Chocolate Cremeux.
Aster, InterContinental Sydney
Feel on top of the world as you gaze across the harbour’s icons all the way to the open ocean and the Blue Mountains: Aster offers decadent 32nd floor views, elevated styling and a tasty selection of sharing plates, wines and famously creative cocktails. Don’t miss the Higher Ground: a zingy, memorable blend of Don Julio Blanco Tequila, Grapefruit and Saint Felix Bitter Aperitivo that perfectly complements the lofty views.
Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couples enjoying an evening out at Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Opera House.
#feelnewsydney #ilovesydney
Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Couples enjoying an evening out at Bennelong Restaurant, Sydney Opera House.
Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
#feelnewsydney #ilovesydney
Aster Bar Credit: InterContinental Sydney
Aster Bar, InterContinental Sydney
Ploós
Nestled within the Heritage-listed warehouses of Campbell’s Cove in the historic Rocks, Ploós nourishes body and soul with imaginatively remixed classic Grecian dishes, mesmerising views of the harbour, and expansive alfresco dining areas mere steps from the water’s edge. Linger over a long lunch at the outdoor bar, feasting on chef Peter Conistis’ award-winning meze plates and breathing in the postcard-worthy scenery from the luxurious lounges.
Sails on Lavender Bay
Renew your view across the bridge in North Sydney. This sun-drenched eatery has prime position near the McMahons Point wharf, offering Modern Australian fare and an awe-inspiring perspective of the city skyline. Saro Derderyan’s seven-course degustation stars Sydney Rock Oysters, Smoked Grimaud Duck Breast and Aquna Murray Cod, plus, there’s a sumptuous a’la carte menu and an award-winning wine list – all just a ferry ride from Circular Quay.
Opera Bar
Backed by the architectural magnificence of the Opera House, this is the ultimate alfresco spot to clink glasses and watch the sun slink down behind the bridge. Refresh your palate with their standout Cold Seafood Platter, savouring just-caught salmon, kingfish and tuna sashimi, local oysters, prawns, and blue swimmer crab. Or choose a light snack to enjoy with the bar’s signature Sydney Sling cocktail which features craft gin distilled nearby in the Rocks.
Oncore by Clare Smyth, Crown Sydney
Feel inspired by world-class creativity as Clare Smyth’s first international restaurant soars above the city in ultramodern Barangaroo – showcasing sustainable local ingredients, rare wines and epic views. Don’t miss Smyth’s globally acclaimed signature dish, Potato and Roe – a memorable melange of seaweed beurre blanc, herring and trout roe that demonstrates her incomparable ability to transform humble ingredients into culinary art.
Henry Deane, Hotel Palisade
Surrounded by the charming colonial terraces of Millers Point, this plush cocktail lounge boasts uninterrupted views in every direction. Cian Mulholland’s elevated menu is designed to be shared, with highlights including White Sturgeon Sterling Caviar, Sydney Pipis and Abalone Potato. Charge your glasses with a host of rare blends from across Australia, Lebanon, France, Chile and beyond while you soak up the views of the harbour at golden hour.
More Inspirational Stories
Murray Rose Pool, Double BayCredit: Destination NSW
Harbour views from Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay in Sydney's eastern suburbs.
#feelnewsydney
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..
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnewsydney
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
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnewsydney
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
#feelnewsydney
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.
#feelnewsydney
Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay Credit: Destination NSW
Couple enjoying a walk by Murray Rose Pool, Double Bay.