As Sydneysiders, it’s easy to overlook The Rocks and Circular Quay as dining destinations that don’t fall in the ‘overpriced’ and ‘touristy’ categories, but believe me, this area of Sydney has many gems.
Then, let’s not forget about the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows of Circular Quay restaurants, which can only be described as stunning.
Whether you’re booking yourself in for an evening of magic with that special someone, are taking a visitor around to show them the best Sydney has to offer, or are simply after a spot of indulgence, The Rocks and Circular Quay is a great place to be.
The food is undoubtedly exquisite and the hat:restaurant ratio is extraordinarily high. My tip? Wear your best frock and don’t be afraid to whip out your credit card, because these places are worth it.
The Best Restaurants in Circular Quay and The Rocks
Table of contents
Quay
Waterfront
Aria
Meat & Wine Co.
Sydney Cove Oyster Bar
Ananas Bar and Brasserie
Rockpool
Sake Bar and Restaurant
Tetsuya's
Sailors Thai
Altitude @ The Shangri-La
Cafe Sopra
Lucky Dip: Try Something New
Quay
Address: Upper Level, Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Tues to Fri 12pm–2pm (lunch), Daily 6pm–10pm (dinner)
Phone number: (02) 9251 5600
What you should know: Bookings at Quay are almost on par with Heston’s Blue Duck. Friday and Saturday night tables are usually booked up 6-months in advance. Quay will start taking table reservations for 2015 from 1st July 2014.
Three stars, three hats, Restaurant of the Year Awards, and more. Quay is one of those restaurants that you have to visit at least once in your life, and their food philosophy is the reason why. Headed by acclaimed chef Peter Gilmore, Quay is all about delivering beautifully crafted food that’s brimming with texture, harmony and balance.
Cooking. It’s not an artform here, it’s way of life.
What to order: Custard Apple Snow Egg. Like you have a choice.
What to wear: Something smart with a dash of casual
Daydreamer Sleeveless Dress from The Iconic
At Quay, the attire is smart casual. They want you to feel comfortable. But you’ve been waiting six months for tonight and you want to look stunning. This’ll do the trick.
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Eastwood Chambray Shirt from The Iconic
Men, even though Quay doesn’t enforce a tie and suit onto you, they do expect you to be well dressed. That’s NO sleeveless tops, NO ugg boots, and NO shorts. So wear something. If not for Quay, then for your date
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Waterfront Restaurant
Address: 27 Circular Quay, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Daily 12pm–close
Phone number: 1300 115 116
What you should know: Waterfront Restaurant is part of the Citibank Dining program, and offers all members a free bottle of Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc or a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (both Margaret River, WA) with their meal.
The name doesn’t lie, the views from this top restaurant are – quite literally – waterfront. That’s the Opera House AND the Harbour Bridge, in case you’re wondering. It’s a great spot for taking visitors to drink in harbour views, and serves some of the freshest seafood Australian fine dining has to offer.
What to order: Hot and Cold Seafood Platter for Two, because you really shouldn’t deny yourself a taste of everything ($185).
What to wear: Something warm
Drape Colour Block Jacket from The Iconic
Something to remember while at The Waterfront restaurant is that you will be on the waterfront. Make sure you bring a jacket to keep you snug going to and from the venue.
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Selected Homme Bomber Jacket from Topman
If she’s forgotten her jacket, she can always snuggle into yours..
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Aria
Address: 1 Macquarie Street, East Circular Quay
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 12pm–2:30pm (lunch) and 5:30pm–11pm (dinner), Sat 5pm-11pm, Sun 5:30pm-10pm
Phone number: (02) 9240 2255
What you should know: Aria offers a pre-theatre dinner menu from 5:30-7pm, as well as an after-theatre supper menu from 10pm.
Matt Moran’s restaurant needs no introduction. The world-renowned chef balances flavours with an elegant finesse that has seen his restaurants go from strength to strength. The menu changes seasonally, but is always of the highest calibre. Like you’d expect anything else.
What to order: The Chef’s Tasting Menu – seven courses of heaven.
What to wear: Something theatrical
Premium Maxi Dress With All Over Floral Embellishment from ASOS
If you’re here for a pre-theatre dinner, then you’ll want to wear something suitable for both occasions. This maxi is simple, elegant, and should be paired with some delicate jewellery.
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Grey Slim Suit Jacket from The Iconic
A good blazer smartens any outfit. This one from River Island is tailored to give you a slim, dapper look.
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Meat & Wine Co.
Address: Shop 12, Lobby, InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie St, Sydney
Opening Hours: Sun to Thur 12pm–10pm, Fri and Sat 12pm–11pm
Phone number: (02) 9252 7888
What you should know: Citibank Dining program members also receive a free Feet First Cabernet Merlot or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc.
The perfect marriage of meat and wine. That’s what these guys are all about. They also cater for all diets – whether you’re a carnivore, a vegetarian, have allergies, require halal, need something less substantial for the kiddies, or are in a super hurry to get back to the office. They can do it all. They also offer tasting plates, for anyone who can’t make up their minds after being graced with so much choice.
What to order: Monte Black Fillet (150D, MB 2+, $49). If you’re here for the meat, then you should get the best.
What to wear: Something comfortable
Clover Canyon Byzantine Scarf Jumpsuit - Bloomingdale’s Exclusive from Bloomingdales
Don’t overthink this one. Sure, it’s located inside the InterContinental and the meat cuts are choice (to put it lightly), but you are eating a hearty meal, so dress casually and have some fun.
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Grey Wash Stretch Skinny Jeans from Topman
A pair of stretch jeans will never be so loved as they will be tonight after this feast.
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The Sydney Cove Oyster Bar
Address: No 1, East Circular Quay, Sydney
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri 9am–late, Sat and Sun 8am–late
Phone number: (02) 9247 2937
What you should know: Sydney Cove Oyster is part of the Citibank Dining program, and gives members a free bottle of Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA) or a Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) upon arrival.
For delectable seafood with a view of the Harbour, The Sydney Cove Oyster Bar has you covered. It’s arguably the best seafood restaurant in Sydney and serves the freshest oysters from the seasonal rivers of anywhere from Northern NSW to Tasmania. You’ll likely have passed it enroute to the Sydney Opera House, so we suggest you make an evening of it, starting with seafood fare here, and a musical affair at The Opera House. Or, you could just stay here. It’s open until late.
What to order: Ultimate Oyster Bar Indulgence ($225). It’s moments like this, when you’re bug-eyed over the chilled local lobster, blue swimmer crab, natural & Kilpatrick oysters, king prawns, marinated mussels, smoked Tasmanian salmon, beer battered flathead, tempura prawn cutlets, and yabbies that you take that Instagram shot and hashtag it #YOLO and #foodporn.
What to wear: Something nautical.
Stripe Slice of Life Tee from Dotti
Chic and casual is the look you’re going for here. Well, when you’re all hands on deck shucking those oysters, fancy dresswear isn’t option. It’s a no-no.
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Necklace with Nautical Wheel from ASOS
At Sydney Cove Oyster Bar the dress code is pretty open, so to make the most of your date, why not run with the theme of the restaurant and wear a nautical wheel necklace?
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Ananas Bar & Brasserie
Address: 18 Argyle St, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Mon to Wed 6pm–12am, Thu to Sat 6pm–3am, Fri 12pm–3pm (lunch)
Phone number: (02) 9259 5668
What you should know: Whenever there’s an event on (Vivid, Sydney Film Festival) Ananas aren’t afraid to do a special, so look out for them!
French dining is seeing a revival in Sydney, and Ananas Bar & Brasserie is part of that movement. The one-hatted restaurant drips with lashings of 1920s Paris. There’s even a throw to the age of French cinema in the naming of the cocktails. Brigitte Bardot, anyone? Or perhaps you’d prefer a Beautiful Troublemaker? The extensive menu reads of Mediterranean and French influences with plenty of duck, seafood, and steak frites to accompany you Brigitte er, cocktail.
What to order: Confit duck leg. When in France…
What to wear: Something French chic, naturally.
Betsey Johnson Strut Heeled Ankle Boot from Urban Outfitters
Fitted with a lace-up enclosure and a tonal scallop trim, these delicate ankle boots come in rose or black.
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Hilfiger Denim Shawl Cardigan from ASOS
Don’t be afraid to wear colours. Life isn’t all black and white
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Rockpool
Address: 11 Bridge St, Sydney
Opening Hours: Mon to Fri from 12pm (lunch), Mon to Sat from 6pm (dinner)
Phone number: (02) 9252 1888
What you should know: Larger parties can book Rockpool’s private dining room (14 pax), or semi-private area (16 pax). But be aware: bookings of 8+ incur a discretionary 10% service fee.
Ever since this fine dining establishment moved onto Bridge St, it's taken on a slightly more casual approach. The food is still Neil Perry at his finest, but the impeccable service is a lot speedier – especially during the lunch hours for the suits and their one-hour meal blitz. Rockpool's forward approach to the culinary art sees their menu change seasonally, but their dedication to perfection remain constant.
What to order: Braised beef cheek sukiyaki with winter melon, gem lettuce and tendon ($125 with the one-choice dinner option).
What to wear: Your Sunday best.
Sexy Pencil Dress in Scuba with Mirror Floral Print from ASOS
Even if are only popping in for lunch at Rockpool, you don’t want the decor to overshadow you. Stand out in this gorgeous mirror floral print number.
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Cardigan in Textured Yarn from ASOS
Keep warm, and look stylish while you’re at it. Win-win, don’t you think?
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Sake Restaurant and Bar
Address: 12 Argyle St, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Mon to Sun 12pm–3pm (lunch) 5:30pm –1:30pm (dinner), Sun 5pm–10pm (dinner)
Phone number: (02) 9259 5656
What you should know: Finicky about raw fish? Sake offers ‘no raw’ options for those who love their meals to be well cooked.
Sake has outfits in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, and the highest quality sushi to justify its bragging rights as one of the best Japanese restaurants around. Their sushi master Shaun Presland creates modern and traditional dishes that change with the seasons. And, as the name suggests, stocks a bevy of sakes to accompany your dish and add to the authenticity of this dining experience.
What to order: Popcorn shrimp with creamy spicy sauce ($29). Don’t know what it is about this dish, but you’ll rave about it just as much as we are. Maybe even more
What to wear: It’s got to be catwalk trendy at Sake.
Peg Pants in Blurred Floral Print from ASOS
At this modern and dynamic restaurant, you should feel free to make a bold statement in a loud and colourful outfit.
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Loop Leather Co On the Plus Side Belt from The Iconic
Available in black or chocolate – this one’s all about the detail.
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Tetsuya’s
Address: 529 Kent St, Sydney
Opening Hours: Tues to Fri from 6pm (dinner), Sat from 12pm (lunch), from 6:30pm (dinner)
Phone number: (02) 9262 7099
What you should know: Chef Tetsuya is not only a maestro in the kitchen, he’s also a bit of an art collector. Each of the rooms at his institution feature eclectic art and ceramics from his personal collection.
The name alone should have its own dictionary entry. Its definition? The epitome of Japanese fine-dining on the outskirts of The Rocks. They only take bookings here, and there are no menu choices: it’s the ten course degustation or bust. All dishes are Japanese in nature, finessed with traditional French technique.
What to order: Read above. You don’t have a choice in the matter. But on the upside: EVERYTHING is a must-try. ($220 pp beverages not included.)
What to wear: Go eclectic.
Michael Kors Zig Zag Poncho from Bloomingdales
A ten course degustation may be on order but this fine dining affair boasts some of the most eclectic artworks in the world. Break a fashion rule and dare to be different
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River Island Light Brown Dress Chukka from The Iconic
Look smart, lace up.
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Sailors Thai
Address: 106 George St, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Daily 12pm-3pm (lunch), 5pm-10pm (lunch)
Phone number: (02) 9251 2466
What you should know: For a little touch of history, you can purchase the book The Sydney’s Sailors’ Home. It’s a beautiful memory for tourists, and a novel insight into 17th and 18th Century Sydney.
Housed in the historical Sailors’ Home building and overlooking Circular Quay and The Opera House, you’ll first walk down the well-worn sandstone steps before you enter into this sensory delight. Splayed across two distinct areas, Sailor’s Thai offers a downstairs dining area and an upstairs canteen with one of the first communal tables in the city. The food. Well, we don’t need to tell you the cuisine. Or the fact that this hatted restaurant has the traditional ‘slow style’ of Thai cooking down pat. They also make all their curry pastes in-house.
What to order: Som dtam (green papaya salad with peanuts, dried shrimp, spicy & sour dressing, sweet pork, $24). Some traditions (read: traditional salads) are meant to be kept.
What to wear: Something fun and flirty.
Klear Kluth in Flamingo Pink from ASOS
The money and make up has got to go somewhere. Might as well put them somewhere cute.
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Shooting Stars Tee from Urban Outfitters
You can’t go past a good print tee.
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Altitude @ The Shangri-La Hotel
Address: Level 36, 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 6pm-10pm
Phone number: (02) 9250 6000
What you should know: The chef's name at Altitude is McCool. Matthew McCool. No, really.
The name of its chef isn’t the only cool thing about this restaurant. Often overlooked as a dining destination, Altitude is a one-hatted restaurant that sits high above the city. It’s main menu is Modern Australia meets European, and prides itself for its delicate textures, temperatures, and contrasting flavours. But it’s the high standard of desserts and pastries that makes it a cut above the rest. Shangri-La’s Executive Pastry Chef Anna Polyviou won Food Service News’ Best Dessert in Australia 2014 award, and with a CV that includes Claridges in London, you can bet there’s a dessert stomach or two in you tonight.
What to order: Kurobuta pork w/ abalone, apple, pea, and ponzu ($42) is one of McCool’s signature dishes, and not one to dismiss.
What to wear: A touch of European flair.
Jessica Bouquet Floral Scarf from The Iconic
Pair this one with a sleek pair of leather gloves and they will be asking you that much coveted question: where’d you get those from? Your answer? Paris? No, Italy. Definitely Italy.
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Native Youth Reverse Paisley Print Button-Down Shir from Urban Outfitters
Wear over a pair of jeans or chinos at Altitude, then take it to the beach when the weather warms up.
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Cafe Sopra
Address: Shop 8, 16 Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay
Opening Hours: Tues to Sun 12pm–3pm (lunch), 6pm–10pm (dinner)
Phone number: (02) 8243 2700
What you should know: Cafe Sopra doesn’t take bookings, and can get busy on theatre nights, so get in early and secure your spot. If you don’t, someone else will.
From the guys who brought you Italian grocer and providore, Fratelli Fresh, comes its Walsh Bay offering: Cafe Sopra. This one’s been around for a number of years and is a hot favourite morning, afternoon, and evening, particularly with theatre goers and thespians as it’s right next to the Sydney Theatre Company. Cate Blanchett has been known to drop in for a coffee. You should, too.
What to order: Word on the wire is that their banoffee pie is what dreams are made of ($14.50 per slice or $60 per cake). We trust your tastebuds, Sydney.
What to wear: Something arty/hipster.
Wool Fedora Hat from Urban Outfitters
Being in what could be defined as our arts district, Cafe Sopra is surrounded by the Sydney Theatre Company and Dance Company. Dress it up a little with this uber cool fedora
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Quay Frankie Round Sunglasses from Urban Outfitters
For guys, even if the sun isn’t out, or you’re not here for a day time coffee, these Quay Sunglasses are pretty damn fetch. Oh yes we did.
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Lucky dip: try something new
Still undecided? Why not surprise yourself with a blind taste experience from RedBalloon? There’s a wealth of restaurants awaiting your discovery at bargain prices. You never know, you may just discover your new favourite dining home in the city because of them. Which will we entice you to try?
Japanese Teppanyaki Surf n Turf for 2 from RedBalloon
Teppanyaki has got to be one of the most fun dining experiences to be had. Quality chefs toss and throw food at you to catch and eat. They will also do it with a bit of fire action, too, if they’re in the mood. This is a 10-course journey through Japanese cuisine you won’t want to miss.
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Two Course Lunch with Wine Overlooking the Harbour (for 2) from RedBalloon
While we can’t reveal the exact location of this restaurant, we can guarantee that its view means it’s guaranteed to be somewhere spectacular. With the Harbour Bridge in your sights, you and your friend/other half will be clinking glasses over what an enviable find you’ve stumbled upon.
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The Ultimate Steakhouse Experience for two from RedBalloon
Don’t want to name drop here, but we may or may not have mentioned this venue earlier on in our article. Come with a growling stomach, as you’ll need it to smash through the house-made bread board, tasting plate, steak main, sweet finale tasting plate, and beverages. Good luck and enjoy.
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