The Best Local 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.

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Zennon Christain Wijlens

Chef

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

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Bar Copains is a relaxed neighborhood wine bar in Sydney with a welcoming vibe and knowledgeable staff. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel comfortable from the moment you arrive, whether you’re popping in for a quick visit or settling in for the evening. You’ll find an inviting atmosphere that draws people back time and again.

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Beau Clugston

Chef

A wine bar with care. A wonderful local wine bar that has some of Australia’s best wine selections. Food that is thoughtful and delicious. Super hosts and superb vibe.

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Continental Deli Bar Bistro is a relaxed spot in Newtown offering bistro-style dining with a touch of Australian flair. Its cozy bar and upstairs dining room make it an inviting place for locals and travelers alike. The team is known for canning creative specialties and serving a wide range of drinks, making it a comfortable choice for any occasion.

Recommended by

Christina Wood

Pastry chef

Casual, intimate bistro with small plates and a large wine list Every dish was super flavorful and balanced. My favorite part of the meal was dessert; they offer a Flan in a Can, which they make on site. They open the can and press the flan custard out, letting rhe caramel spill over the sides and onto the plate. Very clever and fun. You can purchase a wide selection of tinned fish to take home as well.

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Flour and Stone is a small bakery in Sydney with a growing reputation for its fresh, creative baked goods. Seating is limited, so many people grab their treats to enjoy in a nearby park. The simple, welcoming atmosphere makes it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.

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Thomas Carr

Journalist

I'm calling it. The best bakery in Sydney. Utterly extraordinary. Everything Nadine touches turns to gold or, in this case, sweet sweet magic. You will have likely heard of her panna cotta lamington. Yes, the rumours are true, it's the best you'll ever have. Quince and custard tart, rocher cake, the lemon dream, fine apple tart....honestly, all of it is incredible. Let yourself loose, order it all. Return the next day and do it all over again. The bakery is across two storefronts, both are tiny. So dont plan on a table. Just get takeaway and go to a neighbouring garden.

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Goodwood Bakeshop Marrickville is a neighborhood bakery in Sydney that uses locally sourced flour and produce in its baked goods. They keep things simple, letting each ingredient speak for itself. The shop is open from Thursday to Sunday, or until everything sells out.

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Christina Wood

Pastry chef

Pastry and bread shop using locally sourced flour and produce Their laminated pastries were fresh and seasonal. They used interesting flours, such as a whole wheat in the rough puff, and let the local produce shine. I also purchased a loaf of spelt rye bread that was divine. Not too dense, very flavorful.

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Ho Jiak Town Hall – Junda’s Playground is an award-winning Malaysian restaurant in Sydney where Chef Junda Khoo brings a fun, modern twist to classic flavors. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, making it an inviting spot to gather with friends or family. Recognized by local food guides and praised for its creative approach, it offers a memorable dining experience without feeling fussy.

Recommended by

Jill Dupleix

Food writer

Intelligent modern take on real down-home Malaysian With its mound of fragrant coconut rice, crisp anchovies, peanuts, spicy sambal and chicken curry, the nasi lemak here is like having the buffet all to yourself (the only way to have a buffet these days). Chef and co-owner Junda Khoo brings his own inspired take to all the Malaysian dishes we’ve been missing, from curry laksa and chicken satay to chilli crab and wagyu beef rendang. Best dish: laksa dumplings.

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Piña is a relaxed café in Potts Point, Sydney, open daily from 7am to 3pm. It’s part of the Room Ten Group and provides a comfortable spot to watch the neighborhood go by. The cozy setting makes it an easy place to take a break while exploring the area.

Recommended by

Beau Clugston

Chef

Classic Australian Breakfast. A classic Australian cafe to get your smashed avos, scrambled eggs and flat whites. In a lovely part of town to people watch and stroll the streets.

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Refettorio OzHarvest Sydney is a social enterprise that provides free meals to people in need and occasionally hosts paid dinners for the public. Part of a larger global initiative, it brings together volunteers and chefs in a welcoming space to help the community through good food and hospitality.

Recommended by

Jill Dupleix

Food writer

This is a restaurant for those who cannot even dream of looking up a special place to dine on World of Mouth. Restaurants are meant to restore, to feed, to nurture. Refettorio OzHarvest is a very special social enterprise in Sydney (part of a wider global group founded by Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore) that charges its diners nothing. Chefs and volunteer staff create nourishing three-course lunches - and a lot of cappuccinos - for those in need. And at regular intervals the paying public can book for dinner and eat the same vegetarian dinner as they do. And it's delicious! Put your money where their mouths are, and help spread the joy of hospitality.

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Rollers Bakehouse is tucked behind The Corso in Manly, offering a relaxed beachside vibe and creative baked goods. Their focus on experimenting with fresh flavors sets them apart, all while serving quality coffee. It’s a comfortable spot for anyone looking to take a break and enjoy something new.

Recommended by

Christina Wood

Pastry chef

Top-notch croissants in a relaxed beach town setting. Incredibly light and flaky croissants with the right amount of crunch on the outside. Their savory options are very creative and well executed. Lamination is top-tier. I traveled from Seattle to try these and they did not disappoint.

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Tenacious Bakehouse in Sydney brings a welcoming atmosphere with its creative approach to pastries and coffee. Every item is made with care, showcasing unique flavor twists and attention to detail. Friendly service and a broad selection of both sweet and savory bakes make it an inviting spot for anyone looking for something a bit different.

Recommended by

Christina Wood

Pastry chef

French croissants with a Korean flavor profile and really good coffee. The pastry flavors are really interesting (kimchi cheddar, black garlic, grape, etc) with impeccable lamination and eye-catching presentation. A much wider selection of savory pastries than most croissant shops. Customer service is great as well! Very friendly folks. Attention to detail with pour-over coffees and espresso.

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