Humble Bakery, Surry Hills Credit: Caroline McCredie
Baked goods at Humble Bakery, Surry Hills
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While Sydney is undoubtedly renowned for its iconic harbour and beaches, the region’s culinary idols are equally as noteworthy, serving various dishes that inspire a cult-like devotion. Locals and tourists alike journey from near and far to savour these legendary bites. From timeless classics to the latest food trends, here are the must-try iconic dishes in Sydney and across NSW.
SYDNEY:
Bennelong’s Opera House Pavlova, Circular Quay
Bennelong is located within the country’s most famous building — the Sydney Opera House — and its menu aspires to be as Australian and iconic. Its pavlova features architectural sails inspired by this landmark, while its lamington is served with a dramatic blast of liquid nitrogen.
King Clarence’s Fish Finger Bao Bun, Sydney CBD
Located in Sydney's CBD, King Clarence is an Asian-inspired restaurant influenced by the flavours of China, Korea, and Japan. A quickly rising crowd favourite is the Fish Finger Bao, featuring a crisp barramundi fish finger set in gelatinised dashi stock and topped with mustard greens, cheese, pickled chilli, and salmon caviar for the perfect bite.
Australia’s Best Finger Bun from Humble Bakery, Surry Hills & Circular Quay
Humble Bakery in Sydney has redefined the classic Aussie finger bun, earning the public’s nomination in the Wotif Uniquely Aussie Awards and ultimately claiming the title of Best Finger Bun in Australia. Available in Surry Hills and Circular Quay, this gourmet version boasts dried cranberries, golden raisins, currants, and a rich baby-pink cream cheese frosting, all topped with a generous slab of butter from Coppertree Farm. This decadent treat elevates the traditional 1970s finger bun to a new level of indulgence.
Mary's Burger at Mary's, Newtown
Sydney's burger scene can be essentially divided into two time periods: before Mary's and after Mary's. When owners Jake Smyth and Kenny Graham opened the original Newtown venue in 2013, they didn't expect to start a revolution, they just wanted to dish up a good ol' American-style cheeseburger (alongside beer and metal music) with no fuss. Yet an icon was born, and remains one of the tastiest options for a burger in Sydney.
Totti’s Woodfired Bread, Bondi & Sydney CBD
On a typical night at Totti’s, it’s hard to spot a table that hasn’t ordered a plate of the Bondi trattoria’s famous woodfired bread to mop up their burrata and antipasto. The 48-hour fermented dough is cooked in a flaming hot wood oven until it reaches that signature puff and lick of char.
Totti’s, Bondi Credit: Nikki To
The Bondi trattoria’s famous woodfired bread is cooked in a flaming hot wood oven until it reaches that signature puff.
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Totti’s, Bondi Credit: Nikki To
The Bondi trattoria’s famous woodfired bread is cooked in a flaming hot wood oven until it reaches that signature puff.
Humble Bakery, Surry Hills Credit: Caroline McCredie
Finger Bun
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Humble Bakery, Surry Hills Credit: Caroline McCredie
Finger Bun
Black Star Pastry’s Strawberry and Watermelon Cake, Newtown
New York Times called this Inner West bakery’s now famous creation the “world’s most Instagrammed cake”, and with pretty layers of watermelon, strawberry, luscious cream and rose petals there’s no wonder the bakery now has four outposts and sells thousands of slices every day.
Bill’s Ricotta Hotcakes with Honeycomb Butter, Darlinghurst & Surry Hills
Sydney chef Bill Granger is credited with pioneering the Aussie café phenomenon and taking it worldwide. His original café Bill’s in Darlinghurst now has locations across the globe, and his fluffy ricotta hotcakes are the top order.
Marrickville Pork Roll’s Pork Banh Mi, Marrickville
Vietnamese pork rolls are a staple across Sydney, but this particular one has earned such a devoted following that there's almost always a long queue outside the tiny Marrickville shop. To meet the demand, two additional locations have since opened, serving their legions of fans.
Firedoor's 184-day dry-aged steak, Surry Hills
Following a Chef's Table episode on chef-owner Lennox Hastie, Firedoor shot to super-stardom worldwide. Renowned for its custom-made charcoal ovens, grills and hearths, everything is cooked by fire, from the now-famous dry-aged steak to the brussels sprouts and Caesar salads. The secret ingredient? The kitchen uses different types of wood to give the food its unique taste, from apple, cherry and chestnut to pieces salvaged from aged wine barrels.
Black Star Pastry, Newtown Credit: Black Star Pastry
Black Star Pastry's Strawberry Watermelon Cake is the World's most Instagrammed cake.
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Black Star Pastry, Newtown Credit: Black Star Pastry
Black Star Pastry's Strawberry Watermelon Cake is the World's most Instagrammed cake.
Firedoor, Sydney Credit: Nikki To
Chef Lennox Hastie in the kitchen at Surry Hill's Firedoor restaurant.
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Firedoor, Sydney Credit: Nikki To
Chef Lennox Hastie in the kitchen at Surry Hill's Firedoor restaurant.
El Jannah's Lebanese charcoal chicken, Granville
Before its popularity expanded this Lebanese chicken joint into nine outposts across Sydney, El Jannah’s original Granville location was the place to go for some of the best chargrilled chicken in the city. Now you can order their signature golden juicy bird – plus accompanying bright pink pickles and legendary toum (garlic dip) – at stores from Newtown to Penrith.
Messina's special gelato, Surry Hills
On sweltering summer days, in fact any day of the year, Gelato Messina brings sweet respite for ice-cream lovers. Its original Surry Hills location has since multiplied across the city and beyond (including a new HQ in Marrickville), famous for its outrageous flavour specials (like Fairy Bread, Mr Potato Head and Wagon Wheel) and creative ice-cream cakes. Every Sydneysider swears by their own favourite, but Dulce de Leche and Salted Caramel & White Chocolate are must-try staples.
Chaco Ramen's chilli coriander chicken ramen, Darlinghurst & Bondi
At Keita Abe’s pocket-sized venue in Darlinghurst, you’ll find ramen that tastes unlike any other ramen in Sydney, all with a modern twist. Forget traditional tonkotsu: the mainstays on the menu include yuzu scallop, cold tomato truffle and classic soy. However, it's the chilli coriander chicken that is the long-standing favourite: there’s no chashu on top, but there’s a handful of coriander leaves, some wood-ear mushrooms, three silky medallions of chicken and a bright-red smear of chilli paste on the edge of the bowl. Chefs around the globe have cited it as a must-try dish when visiting Sydney, with Neil Perry even naming it his "death row meal" of choice.
Mr Wong's Peking duck, Sydney CBD
In the words of Dan Hong himself "Who can go past Peking duck pancakes?" And Mr Wong serves some of Sydney's best – its Peking duck is legendary and can actually be seen hanging in a room in the kitchen while dining. The pancakes are best served mid-course between dim sum and mains, and there is the added fun of making them yourself at the table.
Sandoitchi’s Strawberries & Cream Sandwiches, Darlinghurst
A sweet fruit sandwich might sound like an unexpected hit, but Sandoitchi’s Instagrammable Japanese sandwiches have become a cult favourite, drawing crowds who line up long before the Darlinghurst shop opens each morning. The secret lies in the super-soft shokupan milk bread, which also encases their popular savoury options, including the infamous $200 wagyu katsu sando.
Sandoitchi Cafe, Darlinghurst Credit: Leigh Griffiths
Strawberry sando with yuzu whipped cream between fresh white bread.
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Sandoitchi Cafe, Darlinghurst Credit: Leigh Griffiths
Strawberry sando with yuzu whipped cream between fresh white bread.
Gelato Messina, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Customers inside Gelato Messina, Bondi.
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Gelato Messina, Bondi Credit: Destination NSW
Customers inside Gelato Messina, Bondi.
REGIONAL NSW:
Berry Donut Van’s Hot Cinnamon Doughnut
Opening in 1964, this tiny doughnut shop in the historic town of Berry is a must-stop for road-trippers heading south. Served piping hot with a dusting of cinnamon sugar, the sweets are now legendary, with fans such as food writer Melissa Leong, chefs Hayden Quinn and Miguel Maestre, and Guy Sebastian.
The Oyster Farmer’s Daughter’s Sydney Rock Oysters
With such a pristine coastline, NSW abounds with fresh seafood, and there’s nothing more iconic on a sunny day than slurping up a dozen Sydney rock oysters. At this fourth-generation oyster shack in Narooma, order them freshly shucked then settle back on the shores of the Wagonga Inlet.
Bell’s Milk Bar’s Malted Milkshake
Sporting original 1950s decor, this vintage milk bar in Broken Hill offers a nostalgic step back in time, serving classic milkshakes and spiders made with house-made syrups and cordials, just like in the old days. Milk bar memorabilia serves as a fun dose of history in the attached museum.
The Big Banana’s Choc-coated Frozen Banana
After selfies with Coffs Harbour’s iconic Big Banana, the next must-do at this popular fun park is to head to the café and pick up a choc-coated frozen banana for the road, available with your choice of nuts or sprinkles on top.
Woy Woy Fisherman’s Wharf’s Fish and Chips
Some Sydneysiders make the one-hour journey from the city just for lunch here – where fresh-from-the-ocean fish and chips are served right by the water.
Junee Licorice & Chocolate Factory’s Organic Licorice
A visit to this sweet factory in the Riverina is like stepping into Willy Wonka’s lair, and after watching how the treats are made, a must-buy souvenir is their organic licorice; the factory makes more than 900 kilograms of licorice every day to keep up with the demand.
The Famous Berry Donut Van, Berry Credit: If & When Social Media Agency
Berry Donut Van opened in 1964 and has been serving the cinnamon donut since.
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The Famous Berry Donut Van, Berry Credit: If & When Social Media Agency
Berry Donut Van opened in 1964 and has been serving the cinnamon donut since.
Junee Licorice and Chocolate, Junee Credit: Destination NSW
Family-friendly tourist attraction located in Junee. Guided tours and chocolate tasting as well as hands on interactive chocolate experiences.
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Junee Licorice and Chocolate, Junee Credit: Destination NSW
Family-friendly tourist attraction located in Junee. Guided tours and chocolate tasting as well as hands on interactive chocolate experiences.
More Inspirational Stories
Sydney New Year's Eve, SydneyCredit: Keith McInnes
Spectacular 9pm Welcome to Country fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the New Year
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The countdown is on for the biggest night of the year. As the clock strikes midnight on 31 December, more than one million people will gather around Sydney Harbour to ring in 2025. This year, experience Sydney at its summer best, spend the biggest night in the city, then wind down out of town.
Where to watch the fireworks
Observatory Hill
One of the highest points in the city, Observatory Hill is on the edge of The Rocks and is positioned straight at the Sydney Harbour Bridge – it’s probably the closest you can get to the bridge without being on it. Sensitive ears? Bring some ear plugs.
Free entry – no tickets required
Mrs Macquarie’s Point
This iconic NYE vantage point just next to the Royal Botanic Garden has spectacular views of Circular Quay, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and the barges that dot the water near the bridge. Here, there’s a real party atmosphere with pop-up bars and food trucks spread out around the point.
Free entry – no tickets required
NYE Pier Party
At Pier One Sydney Harbour‘s exclusive NYE Pier Party, you’ll be almost close enough to touch the fireworks. Tickets include a mouthwatering menu from food stalls along the pier, free flowing drinks and a set from famed Aussie singer-DJ Havana Brown.
Tickets from $549pp
Celebration New Year's Eve
The rooftop Sculpture Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art will transform into the city’s most spectacular LGBTQIA+ NYE celebration. From the rooftop setting, you’ll have a front row seat to the biggest night of the year, plus canapes, bottomless drinks, DJs and cabaret acts.
Tickets from $697pp
New Year's Eve Opera Gala at Sydney Opera House
This is a truly iconic Sydney celebration. Start the evening with drinks overlooking the harbour before heading inside for the Opera Gala Concert. Watch the 9pm fireworks during intermission then enjoy the rest of the show before the exclusive Midnight Party kicks off in the Northern Foyer. Expect incredible views of the fireworks, Champagne and a night of dancing.
Tickets from $199pp
Rooftop bars
Ring in the new year at one of Sydney’s glamorous rooftop bars where you can pair breathtaking views with live music, Champagne and a cocktail the colour of the fireworks. Aster at the top of the InterContinental Sydney has some of the best views in the city, looking out over the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. At the Shangri-La Hotel, marvel at the fireworks from the sky-high Altitude restaurant and Blu Bar. For fireworks views from Darling Harbour, get tickets to the festivities at Zephyr (DJ and saxophonist included) at the Hyatt Regency, Untied Barangaroo (featuring flowing frosé and a DJ set) and CIRQ at Crown Sydney (where you’ll join a masquerade soiree).
Tickets required
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying a picnic in the Royal Botanic Gardens on New Years Eve at the Lawn With A View event
Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
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Lawn With A View, New Years Eve, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Friends enjoying the fireworks display at the Lawn With A View event on New Years Eve in the Royal Botanic Gardens
Watch the fireworks on the water
Harbour islands
Three of Sydney’s tiny harbour islands are prime vantage points for the NYE fireworks. Clark Island and Shark Island sit either side of Point Piper and have clear views of the harbour and the bridge. Goat Island is close to Balmain on the western side, so you’ll get to see the ‘back’ side of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the firework barges. Entry is free though you’ll need to pay for the ferry transfers. You can bring your own food and alcohol.
(Note that these islands are sold out for NYE 2024 – remember to book early for 2025)
Cockatoo Island
Spend the night in the middle of the action on World Heritage-listed Cockatoo Island. Choose a pre-erected tent (or bring your own) on the Eastern Apron for stellar views of the harbour and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You’ll also be able to see the explosives fire out of a fireworks barge just offshore.
Tickets from 514.42 for a four-person campsite
(Note that a minimum two-night stay applies – NYE guests will stay from Monday 30 December to Wednesday 1 January.)
Harbour cruises
The harbour will be dotted with hundreds of boats during the NYE celebrations, most illuminated with coloured lights and filled with excited revellers. Splash out on an indulgent multi-course dinner, free-flowing drinks and live music aboard the glass-walled Clearview, MV Vagabond Spirit or a Sydney Showboat ferry. Captain Cook Cruises offers a range of cruise options including a more budget-friendly evening where you can bring your own food and drink onboard.
Private charter
For a more exclusive experience, book a private charter boat to enjoy the countdown with your closest friends. Sydney Harbour Escapes, Sydney Harbour Specialists and Eastcoast Sailing have luxurious fleets available for hire. Prices start at around $3,000 and go up well over $100,000 for extra luxury options.
New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
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New Year's Eve Fireworks 2020, Sydney Credit: Destination NSW
Spectacular midnight fireworks display across Sydney Harbour to celebrate the start of 2021.
New year, new adventures: ultimate summer getaways close to Sydney
When the fireworks have faded and the last Champagne cork has been popped, take the opportunity to discover the wonders that await just a short drive from the city. Get a taste of spectacular scenery on a day trip or stay away a little longer in unique hotels or bush camps on postcard beaches. Sparkling coastline scenes, lush forests, one-of-kind adventures and stylish stays await on the Central Coast, in Kiama and the Shoalhaven, and in the city of Newcastle.
Central Coast | 1 hours’ drive
North of Sydney, a necklace of jewel-like beaches is strung along the coast, backed by the untouched bushland of national parks. It’s a quintessential slice of the Aussie coastal lifestyle with characterful villages packed with waterside eats, world-class surf, and family adventure.
Things to do:
- Take a dip or learn to surf in the gentle waves of Terrigal Beach, follow the new boardwalk around the Haven, and try snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear water.
- Hop between the 41 beaches that stretch along 80 kilometres of coastline. Try Toowoon Bay for families, Soldiers Beach for surfing and North Avoca for dog-friendly adventures.
- Cruise around the oyster leases of the Hawkesbury River with Sydney Oyster Farm Tours, then get your waders on to sample a freshly shucked shellfish from a table in the water.
- Meet Elvis the crocodile and Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, then book in for a behind the scenes encounter at the Australian Reptile Park.
- Discover a new adventure in the lush Glenworth Valley – horse riding, quad biking, kayaking, abseiling, camping and more.
- Enjoy a romantic retreat at the five-star Bells at Killcare, a plush Hamptons-style retreat with private lodges boasting sunny rooftops and room service from Bells’ award-winning restaurant.
Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
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Terrigal Beach, Terrigal Credit: Destination Central Coast
Dolphins catching a wave at Terrigal Beach, Terrigal on the Central Coast of NSW.
Kiama & Shoalhaven | 2 hours’ drive
Part of the spectacular South Coast, these neighbouring regions sit south of Wollongong and promise golden beaches, legendary waves, charming villages and natural wonders. From the historic streets of Kiama – now home to galleries and small bars – to beautiful Huskisson, named Australia’s best Tiny Tourism Town for 2024, these areas made for meandering.
Things to do:
- Cruise alongside the bay’s 100 resident dolphins, on board, or in a boat’s boom net, an ocean adventure with Jervis Bay Wild.
- See ocean water crash through a rocky opening and explode up to 30 metres in the air at the Kiama Blowhole, the largest natural blowhole in the world.
- Savour native ingredients at one-hat restaurant Bangalay Dining, then check in to one of the breezy, luxury villas set among coastal sand forest.
- Sleep in style in the bush in one of Paperbark Camp’s stylish safari tents, where kangaroos and king parrots can be seen from the outdoor bathtubs.
Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
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Kiama Blowhole, Kiama Credit: Destination NSW
Water plume spouting from the Kiama blowhole.
Newcastle | 2 hours’ drive
NSW’s second city, Newcastle was built on steel and shipping but today it’s better known for its thriving arts scene, creative community, delicious dining and photogenic ocean pools. Explore on foot, on two wheels or from the water, uncovering fascinating maritime history, vintage stores, tiny galleries and a buzzy night life.
Things to do:
- Take an adventure cruise with Coast XP, watching dolphins leap in your wake as you pass famed surf beaches, World War II forts and the bustling Newcastle Harbour.
- Join the locals for a beachside breakfast or a woodfired pizza on the rooftop of the always-popular Merewether Surfhouse.
- Toast the day with a drink at the city’s highest bar, Rooftop at QT. Sip unique cocktails or local Hunter wines while you take in the 180-degree views over the city.
- Wake to the sound of the waves at Noah’s on the Beach, a classy beachfront hotel. Choose an ocean facing room for that all important view and head out the front door for a sunrise surf.
- Splash out at Crystalbrook Kingsley, Newcastle’s first five-star hotel that has transformed the historic Council Administration Centre building. Don’t miss dinner with a view at the rooftop Roundhouse restaurant.
Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.
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Merewether Baths, Newcastle Credit: Destination NSW
Young people enjoying a day at the Merewether Baths in Newcastle.