Surry Hills Restaurant Guide
Surry Hills sits just south-east of Central Station and is one of the inner-city neighbourhoods Sydneysiders go to for cafés, bakeries and dinner. This guide groups our published Surry Hills restaurants by food type so you can plan a café stop or a dinner nearby.
How we choose
We only publish places with a main photo, an extra photo, a 100+ character description, a 50+ character review and a checked address. This is a comparison list, not a ranking — confirm prices and hours with the venue.
At a glance
| Food type | Places | Solo | Date | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bakery | 7 | 4.4 | 3.0 | 4.9 |
| Fine Dining | 4 | 2.8 | 5.0 | 4.8 |
| Coffee | 4 | 4.8 | 3.8 | 4.8 |
| Brunch | 4 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.0 |
| Casual Fine Dining | 3 | 3.7 | 4.3 | 4.0 |
| Italian | 2 | 3.5 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Sandwich | 2 | 5.0 | 2.0 | 4.5 |
| Wine Bar | 1 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Polish | 1 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| Thai | 1 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 5.0 |
| French | 1 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.0 |
| Burger | 1 | 5.0 | 3.0 | 4.0 |
| Japanese Food | 1 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Korean Food | 1 | 5.0 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
| Dessert | 1 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 3.0 |
Ratings are TasticOz editors' averages out of 5.
Bakery (7)
A.P House (A.P Bakery)
Perched on the rooftop of the Paramount House Hotel in Surry Hills, A.P House (by A.P Bakery) is a bakery and cafe serving up artisanal breads and pastries made from house-milled grains, alongside a curated all-day dining menu.
Bondi Boulangerie Surry Hills
This is the Surry Hills outpost of Bondi’s own authentic French bakery, La Boulangerie. They’re famous for their traditional French-style croissants, baguettes, and handmade pastries—with the almond croissant being a standout crowd favourite. With a cozy, bustling vibe reminiscent of a little Parisian bakehouse, it’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee and enjoy something fresh out of the oven.
Bourke Street Bakery
Bourke Street Bakery is an iconic Surry Hills institution famous for its artisan breads, pies, pastries, and tarts. A beloved local favorite, it has built a stellar reputation for serving simple, high-quality food. It all started in the winter of 2004 in a small corner shop in Surry Hills. Co-founders David McGuinness and Paul Allam shared a passion for handcrafted products made with the finest ingredients. After years of searching for the perfect spot across Sydney, they finally settled at 633 Bourke Street. Founder and chef Paul Allam was originally a chef before becoming captivated by the art of baking. Believing that good food and community are essential to a better life, he emphasizes that a bakery should be a welcoming space. Bourke Street Bakery sticks to traditional methods, making everything by hand using the best ingredients. The Surry Hills store is small and cozy, with a few tables inside and out. While there’s often a long queue, the efficient staff keeps it moving quickly. The air is filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Humble Bakery
Located on Holt Street in Surry Hills, Humble Bakery is a charming bakery and cafe run by the renowned Porteño Group. The menu is a nostalgic nod to classic bakery treats, featuring fresh loaves, buttery pastries, and hearty sandwiches. Their signature Finger Bun is the star of the show, famous for bringing back fond childhood memories with every bite. Humble Bakery is the brainchild of Elvis Abrahanowicz, Ben Milgate, and Joseph Valore—the same powerhouse team behind local favorites like Porteño and Bastardo. By combining top-tier ingredients with expert baking techniques, they elevate simple staples into something truly special. The space itself is bright and airy, boasting high ceilings, large sun-drenched windows, and an open kitchen where you can watch the bakers at work. The decor pairs a neutral palette with pops of cherry red and lush greenery, creating a vibe that’s both cozy and contemporary. Whether you want to grab a seat at the communal table or a private spot, or just grab something to go, the atmosphere is always welcoming. Freshly baked bread and pastries are served daily, alongside a rotating selection of sandwiches and cakes. For your caffeine fix, they pour excellent brews from Single O or Mecca Coffee. Beyond the original Surry Hills location, you can also find them at Circular Quay, Kent Street, and Rose Bay.
Lavie & Belle
Located in Sydney's Surry Hills, Lavie & Belle is a local gem serving up the authentic taste of a French bakery. Renowned for their fresh baguettes and an impressive range of patisserie and viennoiserie, they offer a daily selection of breads and pastries baked fresh on-site. Originally opened in early 2017 by Christian Bonne and Kareen Ferrali, Lavie & Belle was built on the techniques Christian mastered at French baking school. Today, the bakery is run by Alex and his partner, who are dedicated to recreating the genuine flavours and quality of France right here in Sydney. With French-speaking staff on hand, the atmosphere makes you feel as though you've stepped into a little bakery in the heart of Paris. Lavie & Belle specialises in classic French breads and pastries, from baguettes with a perfectly crisp crust and airy centre to rich, buttery croissants.
Lode Pies
Located in Surry Hills, Lode Pies is a bakery showcasing high-end French viennoiserie. Created by the chefs behind LuMi Dining, it's famous for its handcrafted pastries, including pies, tarts, and croissants with incredibly delicate layers. Lode Pies was founded in November 2021 by Federico Zanellato, owner-chef of LuMi Dining, and former LuMi chef Lorenzo Librino. Following the success of their pastry pop-ups during lockdown, they opened their first permanent shop in Surry Hills. Since January 2024, Chef Federico Zanellato has been leading the operation solo. Their pastries, crafted with premium ingredients and precise techniques, have become a massive hit among Sydney foodies. The shop features a pastel pink interior that feels more like a boutique, with pastries displayed as beautifully as jewels. While seating is limited in the small space, it's always bustling with customers queuing up from early morning. Every pastry is handmade in small batches using organic, sustainable, and top-tier ingredients. Lode Pies is considered one of the best places in Sydney to experience world-class pastries, with their signature items offering a truly special experience for every visitor.
Malika Bakehouse Surry Hills
A modern Turkish bakery and cafe by the Above Par Group. Signature dishes include 'Simit' (Turkish bagels), 'Menemen' (Turkish scrambled eggs), and their generous Turkish breakfast platters. The space captures the vibrant energy of a morning in Istanbul.
Fine Dining (4)
Allta
Led by Chef Jung-Su Chang, Allta is a contemporary Korean fine-dining destination that pushes the boundaries of modern gastronomy by blending traditional Korean techniques with innovative culinary expression. The restaurant’s excellence has been cemented with a prestigious 'Two Hats' rating in the 2025 and 2026 Australia Good Food Guide. After first opening in the Sydney CBD in July 2024, Allta has since relocated to Reservoir Street in Surry Hills, where it now showcases a refined 11-course menu. Chef Jung-Su Chang brings a wealth of experience from world-class kitchens, including Seoul’s Michelin-starred Jungsik, infusing every dish with a balance of Korean heritage and modern innovation. The interior features a minimalist yet elegant design, defined by neutral tones and natural materials. To complement the menu, mixologist Joshua Hallissy and head sommelier Sebastian Brogren have curated a sophisticated beverage pairing designed to elevate every flavour profile. Allta offers 11-course and 15-course dinner menus, with prices ranging from $279 to $325 per person. The restaurant is open for dinner from Tuesday to Saturday, and bookings are essential. The recommended dress code is smart-elegant.
Firedoor
Ranked #11 in the World's Best Steaks (2026) and recognized as a Sustainable Restaurant. Firedoor is Australia’s only fully wood-fired restaurant, where Chef Lennox Hastie cooks exclusively over 11 types of wood fire without the use of gas or electricity. An alumnus of Spain’s legendary Asador Etxebarri, Hastie gained global acclaim after appearing on Netflix’s Chef’s Table: BBQ. His accolades include 2020 Citi Chef of the Year and the 'One Knife Excellent' at TheBestChef Awards. Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2025, Gourmet Traveller reflected on it as the restaurant that 'changed the Sydney dining scene.' In 2026, the restaurant will host a Texas BBQ series in collaboration with Travel Texas.
Le Salle Dining by Bar Chaplin
Le Salle Dining by Bar Chaplin is a hidden, bookings-only Modern European restaurant tucked away in a small Surry Hills laneway at 1/18 Hutchinson St. With only about 12 seats, the dining room focuses on a harmony of European and French techniques, seasonal Australian produce, Mediterranean influences, and curated wine pairings. Patrick Dang and Ederlyn built this intimate space without outside investors to ensure it matched their vision, with Patrick designing the interior himself. He describes the space as an extension of his own home dining room. The name 'Le Salle' comes from the French for “the room.” With black walls and ceilings, plum velvet curtains, rose gum wood tables, and dining chairs sourced from Europe, the space feels like a private sanctuary. The 'Bar Chaplin' name is a nod to Charlie Chaplin; Patrick resonates with Chaplin’s philosophy that “Simplicity is not simple,” which reflects his approach to food.
Porteno
Located in Surry Hills, Porteno is a restaurant showcasing the art of Argentinean open-fire barbecue. Using traditional Asado and Parrilla methods, they cook meats over live flames to deliver an authentic taste of Argentina in a vibrant setting. Porteno first opened on Cleveland Street in 2010 before moving to its current Holt Street location in 2016. It has become a Sydney dining landmark, capturing the raw beauty of fire-based cooking and genuine Argentinean hospitality. The interior features exposed brick, vintage details, and the gentle crackle of wood fire, creating a space that is both rustic and full of character. Owned by chefs Elvis Abrahanowicz and Ben Milgate along with Joseph Valore, the team prioritizes authenticity. They offer a traditional Argentinean dining experience centered on shared meats and seasonal vegetables. From the open kitchen, guests can watch the chefs at work over the traditional parrilla and asado grills. Porteno’s excellence is well-recognized, ranking 20th in 'The World's 101 Best Steak Restaurants' for 2025 and holding 2 Hats from the Good Food Guide for 13 consecutive years. It also took home the Gold for 'Steak Restaurant (Formal)' at the 2025 Restaurant & Catering Hostplus National Awards for Excellence.
Coffee (4)
bills surry hills
Located in Surry Hills, bills is an all-day dining institution that perfectly captures the sunny, relaxed, and generous spirit of Australian hospitality. From breakfast through to dinner, the restaurant serves up fresh, vibrant seasonal dishes. bills was founded by the late Bill Granger—an Australian chef, restaurateur, and food writer. He opened the first 'bills' in Darlinghurst in 1993, followed by this Surry Hills location in 1996. In 2018, the Surry Hills branch moved to a larger, more modern space right next door to its original site. Sadly, Bill Granger passed away on December 25, 2023, at the age of 54. The atmosphere at bills Surry Hills is bright and welcoming, offering a true neighbourhood feel that's perfect for a morning coffee, a long lunch, or a relaxed dinner. The modern design features tan leather banquettes, marble-topped tables, terrazzo tiles, and Italian glass wall lights. Teal rattan chairs, lush greenery, and Australian artworks add a lively touch to the space. Signature Dishes * Ricotta Hotcakes — Fluffy hotcakes served with banana and honeycomb butter * Scrambled Eggs — Famous for their incredibly soft and creamy texture * Corn Fritters — Sweet corn fritters served with roast tomato, spinach, and avocado salsa * Prawn Linguine — Linguine with Shark Bay prawns, chilli, garlic, rocket, and lemon * Full Aussie — A hearty breakfast featuring scrambled eggs, sourdough toast, bacon, roast tomato, Swiss mushrooms, and pork and fennel sausage bills Surry Hills is open Monday to Friday from 7 am to 10 pm, and weekends from 7:30 am to 10 pm. Dinner bookings are available, while walk-ins are welcome during the day. It’s a great spot for a casual, relaxed meal.
JIBBICOFFEE ROASTERS
A Surry Hills specialty coffee roastery helmed by Jibbi Little—a Thai-born barista, 2019 Australian Brewers Cup Champion, and 2018 World Coffee Roasting Championship runner-up. This is a space for true coffee craftsmanship, serving meticulously brewed cups made from world-class beans sourced and roasted in-house.
Sample Coffee
A minimalist, standing-only espresso bar tucked away in a Surry Hills laneway. They use high-quality beans sourced from their own roastery in St Peters and are famous for their single-origin filter coffee and espresso. The simple, stripped-back space is designed to let you focus entirely on the quality of the brew.
Single O
Founded in 2003 by Emma and Dion Cohen as Single Origin Roasters, Single O is a specialty coffee cafe and roastery located on the corner of Reservoir Street. They serve their signature house blend, Reservoir, alongside a rotating selection of single-origin espressos and batch brew filter coffee available via a self-service tap system. The kitchen offers a brunch menu that blends local Australian seasonal ingredients with Asian culinary influences. Highlights include the Yuzu Benny with poached eggs and yuzu hollandaise, the BAE Roll featuring espresso mayo and bacon, and the veggie-packed Mothership Bowl. Right next door, you'll find Sideshow, their dedicated brew bar specializing in takeaways and pour-overs.
Brunch (4)
Cafe Kentaro
Located on quiet Bourke Street in Surry Hills, Cafe Kentaro is a modern Australian cafe serving Japanese fusion cuisine. Opened in 2017, it reflects the creative culinary style of Chef Kentaro Takayama and is a local favorite for its fresh, healthy menu. Cafe Kentaro is the second project from Chef Takayama, following the success of Cafe Oratnek in Redfern. Drawing on his experience as the former head chef at Bills, he creates unique dishes that infuse Australian brunch classics with Japanese flair. The space—featuring natural timber, tiles, and exposed brick—is bright, airy, and effortlessly chic. With both indoor and outdoor seating, it offers a lovely atmosphere for any meal. Visitors are consistently impressed by the friendly, efficient service and excellent coffee, which is praised for its nutty notes and smooth crema. Everything is made fresh daily, using bread from Brickfields Bakery and a special blend from Aroma Coffee.
Four Ate Five
An all-day brunch cafe that's been a Surry Hills staple since 2009. This cozy neighborhood gem is the perfect spot to enjoy a variety of egg dishes and homemade comfort food. The name is a clever pun on its address, 485 Crown Street, helping it build a friendly, approachable brand among locals. As Surry Hills evolved into a hub for hipster culture, Four Ate Five cemented its reputation as one of the area's most iconic brunch destinations.
TenTo
Located in Surry Hills, TenTo is a fusion Japanese restaurant that adds a modern twist to traditional Japanese cuisine. A highlight of the experience is the food being served on handmade ceramics crafted by the chef, offering a unique and visual treat. Opened in 2021, TenTo was born from a collaboration between hospitality veteran Din Haikin and Fukushima-born chef and potter Ryota "Rio" Kumasaka. They discovered a Surry Hills laneway that reminded them of the backstreets of Kyoto and decided to open TenTo there. The kitchen, led by Executive Chef Gabriel D'Agostini, serves dishes that harmonize traditional Japanese flavours with fresh Australian and Asian ingredients. TenTo features a casual yet stylish outdoor space filled with vibrant music. Chef Ryota Kumasaka’s handmade ceramics are used for every coffee cup and plate, adding to TenTo’s unique identity. These pieces are so popular they are even sold under a separate brand called 'TenTo Clay'. TenTo is a popular spot for brunch and lunch, with dinner service available from Wednesday to Saturday. Bookings are recommended for weekday visits, while weekends are walk-in only. The venue is also pet-friendly, making for a relaxed visit.
Two Good Eggs Cafe
Two Good Eggs Cafe is a staple of the Surry Hills brunch scene. Since opening in 2007, it has built a loyal local following, catering more to neighborhood office workers and brunch enthusiasts than the typical tourist crowd.
Casual Fine Dining (3)
Nomad
Located in Surry Hills, Sydney, Nomad is a contemporary Australian casual fine-dining restaurant inspired by the cuisines of Spain, Morocco, and the Middle East. The menu highlights bold flavours created through fire and smoke, using the finest locally sourced ingredients. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and share-style dining, it has become a staple of the Sydney food scene. Nomad first opened in 2013. After a brief relocation following a fire in 2019, it returned to its original Foster Street home in 2021. Co-owners Al and Rebecca Yazbek envisioned a restaurant with an urban wine cellar door concept. Head Chef Jacqui Challinor leads the culinary team, bringing a deep understanding of wood-fired cooking to create Nomad’s signature dining experience. The restaurant is housed in a modern warehouse space featuring exposed brick, high ceilings, and concrete floors. The open kitchen and bar area allow guests to watch the chefs at work, adding to the lively energy. A dedicated 'Wine Cave' offers a private dining space for up to 24 guests. Nomad is also renowned for its exceptional wine list, which focuses on Australian wines alongside sustainable selections from small-scale global producers.
Poly
Located on the ground floor of the Paramount House Hotel in Surry Hills, Poly is a restaurant and wine bar where you can enjoy Chef Mat Lindsay’s creative cooking alongside a natural wine list curated by sommelier Julien Dromgool. The menu focuses on modern Australian wood-fired dishes, complemented by organic and biodynamic wines. Poly opened in August 2018 as the sister venue to Mat Lindsay’s renowned restaurant, Ester. While it started with a strong wine bar focus, it has since evolved into a dining destination favoured by Sydney locals. The venue’s design excellence was recognised with the Best Restaurant Design award at the 2020 Eat Drink Design Awards, and it was a finalist for Wine Bar of the Year in 2024. Designed by Anthony Gill Architects, the interior features exposed brick, concrete floors, and an open kitchen, creating a vibe that is both casual and sophisticated. From the central open kitchen, you can watch the chefs work their magic over the charcoal grill. With a variety of seating options, it’s just as welcoming for solo diners as it is for groups. Poly’s menu changes frequently to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients. The wine list features over 150 natural wines, with more than 20 available by the glass. They also host 'apolytivo'—an aperitivo hour with light snacks and drinks—from 5pm–6pm Monday to Thursday, and 4pm–6pm on Fridays.
The White Horse
Located on Crown Street in Surry Hills, The White Horse is a historic pub reimagined as a sophisticated modern dining destination. Reopened in 2024 after an extensive renovation, the venue features a creative menu by Executive Chef Jun Hwang, who blends modern Australian cuisine with his Korean heritage. The building, dating back to the 1930s, is marked by a striking silver stallion sculpture by Scottish artist Andy Scott. Under the direction of Craig Hemmings and designed by Farago Han Studio, the interior exudes a warm yet polished atmosphere. The ground floor houses the main restaurant, offering an intimate and upscale dining experience. Upstairs, you'll find a public bar and an outdoor terrace serving a variety of drinks and snacks in a more casual setting. The rooftop terrace, in particular, is a perfect spot to unwind while taking in the Surry Hills streetscape. Chef Jun Hwang delivers depth of flavor by adding delicate Asian touches to seasonal modern Australian dishes. The 100-strong wine list, curated by consultant James Audas, spans Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, while the cocktail menu shines with creative combinations using local ingredients.
Italian (2)
Bastardo Surry Hills
Bastardo Surry Hills is a restaurant renowned for its creative take on Italian cuisine and handmade pasta. Located in Sydney's Surry Hills, it is part of the Porteño Group.
Pellegrino 2000
Located in Surry Hills, Pellegrino 2000 is a modern Italian restaurant inspired by the traditional trattorias of Rome and Florence. Since opening in 2022, it has quickly earned a stellar reputation under the leadership of Chef Dan Pepperell, Chef Mikey Clift, and Sommelier Andy Tyson—the team behind the successful Bistrot 916. Housed in a historic building dating back to 1905, the restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Beyond the main dining room, the cozy underground wine cellar is a popular choice for special gatherings or date nights. The walls are lined with hundreds of wine bottles and Italian pantry staples, adding to the authentic feel. The restaurant's quality was officially recognized with a 'One Hat' award in The Sydney Morning Herald's Good Food Guide 2024. Pellegrino 2000 puts a creative spin on traditional Italian dishes using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their handmade pasta is a particular standout, complemented by an extensive Italian wine list and cocktails. With a vibe that's both casual and sophisticated, it's perfect for everything from a fun dinner with friends to a romantic evening. Bookings are a must, especially for weekend dinner slots.
Sandwich (2)
It's Recess
Located in Surry Hills, It's Recess is a sandwich specialist built on a nostalgic school-day concept. Serving up a variety of fresh sandwiches, salads, and great coffee, it’s become a local favourite for its fast and friendly service. From the school bell sounds to the handwritten-style fonts, the design elements at It's Recess create a fun, nostalgic experience for every visitor. The interior has a casual, laid-back vibe that's perfect for a quick sit-down meal or grabbing a bite to go. They are particularly well-known for their hearty, delicious sandwiches, with plenty of vegetarian options available. Every sandwich is made to order using fresh ingredients, offering a satisfying meal even on your busiest days. For added convenience, you can also find them on Uber Eats and DoorDash.
Lucky Pickle
Located in Surry Hills, Lucky Pickle is a casual gem famous for its Asian-inspired sandwiches and rice bowls. It’s a local favourite thanks to high-quality ingredients and creative flavour combinations. Lucky Pickle opened its doors in late 2013 or early 2014, started by former Tio’s bartenders Arash Katrak and Anna Berry with the goal of serving simple yet delicious sandwiches. While new owners took over in 2016, the commitment to fresh, well-crafted food remains. It’s a small shop with very limited indoor seating, but the fast and friendly service makes it a popular lunch spot. They also offer takeaway and delivery for convenience. Lucky Pickle serves breakfast and lunch, but it’s best to get in early as they often sell out during the lunch rush. Vegetarian options are also available.
