The Best Fine Dining 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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Icebergs Dining Room and Bar is a long-standing favorite in Sydney, known for its sweeping ocean views and relaxed setting. Whether you’re dropping by after a coastal walk or settling in for a leisurely meal, it’s become an important part of the city’s dining scene. With nearly two decades of history, this beachside spot continues to draw locals and visitors alike.

Recommended by

Beau Clugston

Chef

The city’s most iconic restaurant. If you're dropping in after the Coogee to Bondi walk and having a glass of wine and fresh seafood on the terrace with Australia’s most iconic view or a full blown meal in the evening, Icebergs is the place to be for many reasons. To me it is an important part of the Sydney culture and more than a restaurant.

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LuMi Dining in Sydney brings together Japanese and Italian influences for a fresh take on modern cuisine. The husband-and-wife team behind it pour genuine passion into every detail, creating a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating or looking for something a bit special, LuMi’s careful approach to flavor and presentation makes it a standout choice.

Recommended by

Lesley Pittaway

Food Enthusiast

Casual fine dining at its Sydney-style best! This tasting menu-only restaurant delivers an artful unification of Japanese and Italian cuisine, which may strike as strange at first glance but absolutely works. Creativity that knows no limits, near flawless execution and stunning presentation backed by a team that understands that flavour counts above all else.

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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.

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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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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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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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Set in a relaxed, bunker-like space in Sydney’s Surry Hills, NEL Restaurant delivers a playful spin on fine dining without any fuss. Their regularly changing tasting menus keep things fresh and exciting, giving guests an ever-evolving culinary experience. With an intimate atmosphere and a focus on creativity, it’s a welcoming spot for anyone looking to try something different.

Recommended by

Zoe Bowker

Food Consultant

You won’t find egos or snooty behaviour here, this is fine dining gone fun - ‘fun dining’ if you will. Chef Nelly Robinson’s infectious persona permeates every part of the meal at Nel. and we’re living for it. We experienced their Disney menu that boasted blue genie cocktails poured from the lamp, a venison dish accompanied by a shotgun shell of topping entitled ‘Bambi’s Mum’ and a Peter Pan-inspired crocodile croquette. You can probably see where we’re going with this. Their themed menus change regularly and one thing’s for sure - Nel.’s food will put a smile on your face.

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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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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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