Sydney Restaurants
These restaurants were selected based on personal visits by the TasticOz founder and honest feedback shared with friends who dined together. We recommend only places we experienced firsthand, without advertising or sponsorship.
398 restaurants · Page 3 of 20
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.
Sang by mabasa
Located in Sydney's Surry Hills, Sáng by Mabasa is a family-run restaurant that offers a modern reimagining of traditional Korean flavours. Their mission is to showcase the true depth of Korean cuisine, moving beyond the well-known staples of BBQ and fried chicken. This is the second venture from the team behind Mabasa, a local favourite that operated in Balmain for eight years. It is a true family affair: owner-chefs Seung Kee Son and Jin Sun Son lead the kitchen, while their son, Kenny Yong Soo Son, manages the front of house and interior design. His partner, Youmee Jeon, handles the pickles, desserts, and graphic design. Kenny is also the creative force behind the contemporary design studio, Studiokyss. Sáng by Mabasa features a sleek, minimalist space with just 22 seats, including counter stools and two long communal tables. The open kitchen is framed by a counter lined with pickling jars, while white walls, light timber accents, and copper pendant lights create a sophisticated, modern vibe. The food here respects tradition while embracing a contemporary aesthetic, with every dish elegantly plated. Reservations are available for dinner only; lunch is walk-in only. The restaurant is BYO-friendly for wine, with a $6 corkage fee per bottle. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to experience authentic Korean dining in a casual yet refined setting.
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.
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.
Armorica
Armorica is a Parisian-style French brasserie located in Surry Hills. Since opening in April 2023, it has combined traditional French techniques with a modern approach, showcasing Australian seafood and meats in a vibrant setting. Its quality was officially recognised with a 1 Hat award in both the 2025 and 2026 Australia Good Food Guide. Owner Andrew Becher, who also runs the successful Franca and Parlar, leads the team alongside Executive Chef Jose Saulog and Group Executive Pastry Chef Travin DeHoedt. Armorica took over the space formerly occupied by Toko, transforming it into a sophisticated French dining destination. The space features timber ceilings, European oak woodwork, brass accents, and leather banquette seating. At the heart of the kitchen is a custom-built Josper grill, highlighting the tradition of wood-fired cooking. The main dining room seats up to 90, with a bar area for 28 and a private dining room for 18. For larger events, the entire venue can accommodate 130 seated or 180 standing guests. Armorica is a mid-to-high-end ($$$) restaurant, and bookings are recommended. They serve dinner seven nights a week, with lunch available Tuesday through Sunday. They also host a $6 Happy Hour every day from 4 pm to 6 pm, offering great deals on beer, wine, and charcuterie, alongside an impressive wine list of over 400 labels.
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.
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.
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.
Mogu Mogu Onigiri Community
Located in Surry Hills, Mogu Mogu Onigiri Community is a handmade onigiri (Japanese rice ball) specialist that captures the comfort and creativity of Japanese home cooking. The name comes from 'mogu mogu,' the Japanese onomatopoeia for munching, reflecting their goal to bring joy through delicious food. Opened in June 2024, they offer a diverse menu ranging from traditional styles to modern fusion twists. Every onigiri is handcrafted daily using 100% Hokkaido rice and fresh ingredients. Beyond rice balls, you can enjoy Japanese soft-serve ice cream, light snacks, and premium matcha drinks sourced directly from Japan. It’s a cozy, honest spot for anyone looking for a quick lunch or a nostalgic snack. Mogu Mogu is owned by Hong Kong-Australian couple Janny Sy and Alen Ng. They combine their expertise in branding, marketing, and retail with a team of Japanese culinary and operations experts. The shop has a small but vibrant atmosphere, with seating for about 10 people inside and 4 outside. In addition to the pre-made selection, they offer special onigiri made to order.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Yo-Chi
Yo-Chi is Australia’s go-to self-serve frozen yoghurt destination. It offers a unique experience where you can build your own dessert, pairing frozen yoghurt or acai bowls with a huge range of toppings exactly how you like them. It’s a massive hit with the younger crowd and aims to be more than just a dessert shop—it’s a community hub where people come together to hang out. Yo-Chi first opened its doors in Melbourne back in September 2012. After a few ownership changes, the brand saw explosive growth when it was acquired in 2020 by brothers Oliver and Riley Allis, sons of the Boost Juice founder. The Surry Hills location opened in November 2021, welcoming visitors with its bright, modern interior. Yo-Chi prides itself on high-quality probiotic yoghurt, offering options that cater to various dietary needs including dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan choices. With fresh yoghurt prepared daily and a topping bar packed with everything from seasonal fruit to chocolates, cookies, nuts, and sauces, the combinations are endless. The process is simple: grab a cup, fill it with your choice of yoghurt and toppings, and pay by weight—giving you the freedom to have as much or as little as you want. The Surry Hills store is open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:25 pm, and Friday to Saturday from 11:00 am to 10:55 pm. It’s priced at approximately $4.20 per 100g, and you can even grab a free sample to try out new flavours before you commit.
Igniis Bake & Roast
Opening its doors in 2025, Igniis Bake & Roast is a small artisan bakery that quickly became the talk of Potts Point. Eschewing flashy marketing for pure quality, they've built a loyal local following through exceptional viennoiserie, house-roasted coffee, and sandwiches made with fresh-baked bread.
Franca
Located in Potts Point, Franca offers European sharing-style dining that reinterprets the diverse flavors of the Mediterranean through classic French techniques. Opening in 2019 as 'Franca Brasserie,' it rebranded to 'Franca' in 2026. True to its name—meaning 'lingua franca'—the restaurant aims to be a space where different cultures connect through an expanded menu concept. Under the direction of founder Andrew Becher, Executive Chef José Saulog combines the flavors of Spain, Italy, North Africa, and the Levant with classic French skills to deliver rich, confident dishes. Franca boasts a sophisticated yet warm atmosphere, with elegant Art Deco interiors, soft lighting, and marble finishes creating a luxurious yet comfortable space. Details like velvet chairs, leather booths, parquet floors, and brass accents evoke the feel of a Parisian brasserie. Recognized as a staple in the Sydney food scene, Franca has been awarded 'Two Hats' by the Good Food Guide and has received numerous wine awards. Franca is open for lunch and dinner from Wednesday to Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday). As a high-end fine dining establishment ($$$), reservations are essential. They offer sharing menus for groups of 8 or more, an extensive wine list covering Europe and Australia, and signature cocktails.
Kisuke 㐂介
Located in Sydney’s Potts Point, Kisuke is an intimate 6-seat omakase specialist led by Chef Yusuke Morita. This is a place to experience the true essence of 'omakase'—leaving everything to the chef—showcasing the delicacy and precision of traditional Japanese cuisine. Chef Morita began his culinary career in Japan in 1987, gaining experience across the globe in Tokyo, Amsterdam, and London. After moving to Sydney in 1994, he served as the head chef at Suntory Restaurant in 1998 before opening the original Kisuke in Willoughby in 2012, where it became a local favourite. In 2020, he fulfilled a long-held dream by reopening Kisuke in Potts Point as a small-scale omakase restaurant to fully realise his culinary philosophy. Kisuke offers a 10 to 18-course omakase that changes daily based on the chef’s hand-picked seasonal ingredients. Guests can watch as the chef expertly prepares sushi, sashimi, soups, grilled dishes, and steamed delicacies right before their eyes. The nigiri sushi, in particular, is a highlight of the experience. The interior features a calm, understated timber design that feels like stepping into a tiny omakase den in Tokyo. It’s a space where the connection between chef and guest is paramount, making it perfect for those who appreciate a quiet, focused dining experience. The omakase course is priced at $220 per person, operating for dinner only (5:30 pm – 10:45 pm) from Tuesday to Saturday. Bookings open 30 days in advance via their website and are available for groups of 2, 4, or 6 only. Please note that dietary requirements are difficult to accommodate, so it’s best to check before booking.