The Best Date Night Restaurants in Sydney

Saint Peter at The Grand National Hotel is set in a carefully restored pub in Sydney, offering a relaxed counter where you can watch the kitchen at work. It’s known for its focus on seafood and has a comfortable bar for an easygoing drink. Guests can also stay in one of the hotel’s boutique rooms for a laid-back overnight visit.

Recommended by

Zennon Christain Wijlens

Chef

Exceptional meal from start to finish, every course was delicious and eye opening,

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Bar Vincent is a relaxed bistro in Darlinghurst with a menu that draws from seasonal European and Italian influences. The atmosphere is warm, and the focus on fresh ingredients and natural wines makes it a comfortable spot for a shared dining experience. It’s a straightforward place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a thoughtful meal without any fuss.

Recommended by

Daniel Puskas

chef

Simple but beautiful Italian neighbourhood restaurant. I love Bar Vincent it’s a no fuss simple Italian restaurant that always delivers the most delicious food! Always a great vibe, good for smaller or larger tables the friendliest restaurant in Sydney.

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AALIA is a two-hatted Middle Eastern restaurant in the heart of Sydney. They draw on centuries-old recipes and lesser-known ingredients, adding modern techniques to keep things fresh. The dining space blends historic architecture with a relaxed setting for a warm, welcoming experience.

Recommended by

Alex Carlton

Food enthusiast

There’s something deeply emotional about Paul Farag’s food. It’s nuanced and bewitching and simultaneously sibylline and entirely familiar. The smoked buffalo labne with beetroot molasses and sorrel leaves is at once deeply earthy and as fresh as springtime.

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Alberto’s Lounge is an Italian restaurant and bar in Sydney that blends a laid-back Australian vibe with a nod to classic Italian style. It’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy fresh flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a thoughtful wine selection. Everything about it feels relaxed and genuine, making it an inviting place to settle in and savor good company.

Recommended by

Duncan Welgemoed

Chef

My favourite Italian restaurant in Australia. Smart menu and booze with quirky dishes like the braised and fried tripe cooked with a touch of madras curry. I go here on every Sydney trip.

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Bennelong sits within the iconic Sydney Opera House, offering sweeping views of the harbor and a relaxed atmosphere. The attentive service and focus on Australian produce make for a genuine dining experience. It’s an inviting spot to enjoy one of Australia’s most celebrated landmarks without any fuss.

Recommended by

Duncan Welgemoed

Chef

One of the most iconic sites in Australia, houses an incredible restaurant. Laser sharp service and food in a relaxed atmosphere with one of the best views in the world. A must for anyone visiting sydney for the first time.

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Fratelli Paradiso in Potts Point is known for its relaxed vibe that can take you from a leisurely lunch straight through to dinner. The friendly service and praised wine list often stand out, making it a comfortable spot to settle in. Its casual setting invites you to linger and enjoy the experience.

Recommended by

Randy Moon

Restaurant Owner

The owner of the long lunch that goes straight into dinner! Top notch service, untouchable wine list, and much, much more.

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Lana is a modern Italian restaurant that brings in Asian influences, all set in the historic Hinchcliff House near Circular Quay. It offers a relaxed, playful atmosphere for any occasion, whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner. A nearby cocktail bar also invites you to enjoy a drink before or after your meal.

Recommended by

Beau Clugston

Chef

A house that has it all. A classy restaurant with fun at its core, Steve Seckold’s bringing his years of experience in creating a restaurant with care and commitment suitable for all types of occasions. Don’t forget to have a drink in the cocktail bar downstairs pre or post dinner.

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Mimi’s is a new addition to Sydney’s dining scene, offering a produce-focused menu in a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere. The well-chosen wine list and scenic view create a welcoming spot for a laid-back meal or a special occasion.

Recommended by

James Hird

Sommelier

Mimi’s is a great new addition to the Sydney dining scene. Luxe interiors, great wine list and a produce driven menu. Chef Jordan Toft handles food with a lightness of touch. Book now, enjoy the view.

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Oncore by Clare Smyth is a fine dining restaurant perched high above Sydney’s harbor in Crown Sydney. The dining room has a refined, modern look and focuses on using local, sustainable ingredients. Recognized by respected industry guides, it offers a thoughtful experience in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Recommended by

Dan Fahy

Travelling Foodie

World-class fine dining in one of the most beautiful restaurants in Australia I dined as one-top in June 2022 at this three hatted restaurant overlooking the Opera House and was utterly blown away by the level of food coming out of Clare Smyth's sister restaurant to Core in London. Firstly, kudos to the designers because the restaurant is absolutely stunning. No expense has been spared and you're just transported into palatial luxury as soon as you enter. The food is very similar to the London venue and is dish after dish of texture, flavour, technique, love and passion. The whole team is well oiled, they have a fantastic somm and just everything was perfect from start to finish. Completely faultless and I came away feeling honoured to have eaten here. Both the potato dish and the cheese and onion will be dishes I remember for the rest of my life.

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Petermen in Sydney was known for showcasing Josh Niland’s distinctive approach to cooking, with a focus on high-quality ingredients that left diners impressed. While some felt the portions were on the smaller side, many agreed the memorable flavors justified the cost. Though now permanently closed, it remains fondly remembered for its thoughtful and skillful approach to dining.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Cook

Petermen Restaurant: A Sydney must-visit, showcasing Josh Niland's culinary brilliance Petermen stands out among Josh Niland's array of dining venues in Sydney. While the bill came to around $300 for a solo dinner and portions felt slightly modest, the impeccable quality and tantalizing flavors made every cent worth it. A memorable dining experience that beckons a return visit.

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Ragazzi is a small Sydney spot appreciated for its bold flavors and skilled, friendly staff. People mention the excellent drinks list and relaxed atmosphere. Its food often gets high praise, making it a popular choice for many.

Recommended by

Duncan Welgemoed

Chef

Small place, massive flavours. The front of house is smooth and knowledgeable, excellent drinks list. The food is fucking insanely good. Seriously. Best pasta in Australia right now, hands down, see ya later.

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Sang by Mabasa is a welcoming, family-run Korean restaurant in Surry Hills that serves comforting home-style cooking with a modern touch. The small, cozy space provides a warm atmosphere, reflecting the sense of care that goes into each meal. The focus on authentic yet thoughtfully updated flavors makes it a spot where many diners look forward to returning.

Recommended by

Colin Wood

Chef

A small and homely, family run Korean spot where authenticity, flavour and technique are the driving force. From the moment you arrive the anticipation and excitement builds as you may wait or are taken straight to your table in the small considered and homely dining room. A thoughtful and considered non-alcohol drink lists sets the tone - acidic, sweet, sharp and balanced with creative touches. Then the food arrives, it’s delicate, refined, artful and just so nourishing, flavourful and comforting that you can’t stop eating it. Your eyes widen with excitement as every dish is dropped on the table and your palate expands with such depth from the food. With Kenny Yong Soo Son and his partner Youmee Jeon working the floor and his parents Jin Sun Son and Seung Kee Son cooking, Sáng by Mabasa is a place that has you planning your next visit as you’re walking out the door.

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Sixpenny is a Sydney restaurant led by chef Daniel Puskas, who sometimes adds spontaneous courses for a simple, delicious twist. These unexpected additions leave a strong impression and show a personal touch in the dining experience. It’s a welcoming spot for anyone looking to enjoy a memorable meal.

Recommended by

Nathaniel French

Chef

Was surprised with a midcourse of cacio e pepe. Chef Daniel Puskas admitted that it had nothing to do with the menu we were in the middle of. Rather, he wanted to cook something delicious and simple for us. It left a lasting impression on an already impressive meal.

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Ester Restaurant in Sydney is praised for its creative, wood-fired approach and relaxed atmosphere. Led by chef Mat Lindsay, it highlights top-quality ingredients in a modern Australian style, giving each dish a distinctive depth of flavor. Many find it a comfortable spot for a laid-back yet thoughtfully prepared dining experience.

Recommended by

Tristin Farmer

Chef

Sunday lunch Cracking meal, Matt and team cooking delicious wood fired, ingredient focused. Casual service with personality.

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