Where in Sydney you can claim your free bottle of wine with the Citibank Dining Program? We've got you covered.
There’s something to be said about receiving alcohol for free, and that something is “Yes, please”. Citibank knows this. Dine and pay with your Citibank or Citi card at any of the following restaurants, and receive a free bottle of wine. It’s that simple.
You only have two choices left to make: where will you be dining tonight? And red or white?
Table of contents
SYDNEY CBD
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY
DARLING HARBOUR
PYRMONT & ULTIMO
INNER WEST
LOWER NORTH SHORE
UPPER NORTH SHORE
EASTERN SUBURBS
NORTHERN BEACHES
SOUTH SYDNEY
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
SYDNEY CBD
The Cuban Place, York St
Your free wine is: a Map Maker Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, NZ) or a Hugh Hamilton Sangiovese (McLaren Vale, SA)
Try the… Pan de queso: tapioca cheese puffs with a guava and quince relish ($11.50). Note: you must order $50 worth of food per table in order to receive the wine.
Come for the latin-skewed menu, stay for the rum. You’ll be staying a while – they have over 150 varieties of rum, from Haiti, Guyana, Jamaica, and Cuba. Most of the menu at this ode to 1950s Cuba is designed to share, so prepare to settle in and do the thing properly.
What you need to know
Address: 125 York St, Sydney
Opening Hours: Tuesday and Wednesday 12pm-12am, Thursday and Friday 12pm-1am, Saturday 5pm-1am
Find them on Facebook: The Cuban Place
The Bridge Room, Bridge St
Your free wine is: a Clarence House Pinot Noir (Cambridge, Tas) or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… ash grilled duck with pressed figs, blood plums, grilled blueberries, and blood plum vinegar ($45).
This two-hatted restaurant has a slew of awards to its name: Chef of the Year (to Head Chef Ross Lusted), Hottest Chef in Australia, and a place in the Hot 50 Restaurants for 2014. Find out
if the best in Australian dining really does taste better when consumed in elegance (in a 1930s heritage listed building, no less). Before drinking your complimentary wine, make sure you fully examine their stellar cocktail list, too.
What you need to know
Address: Ground level, 44 Bridge St, Sydney
Opening times: Tuesday to Friday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10pm, Saturday 6pm-10pm
Find them on Facebook: The Bridge Room
Sepia, Sussex St
Your free wine is: Clarence House Pinot Blanc
Try the… ever changing degustation menu on Friday and Saturday evenings ($175pp).
There are many good reasons to visit Sepia. They’ve picked up the 2014 title of ‘Restaurant of the Year’, as well as dish of the year: a pre-dessert (yes, you read that right) dish called The Pearl. Tap the shell to break it, and scoop up the pieces of finger lime pearls, frozen ginger, lime sherbet, and lime cream. Then there’s the big names attached to the place: renowned seafood wholesaler George Costi, award winning chef Martin Benn, and award winning sommelier Rodney Setter. You know you want to book already.
What you need to know
Address: 201 Sussex St, Sydney
Opening Hours: Dinner from 6pm, Tuesday to Saturday, lunch from 12pm, Friday and Saturday
Find them on Facebook: Sepia Restaurant
The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room, George St
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling (Clare Valley, SA), or a Hugh Hamilton Sangiovese (McLaren Vale, SA).
Try the… duck fat fish and chips with mushy peas, mint and gherkin mayo ($26).
It’s city location makes The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room the ideal place for a post work drink-that-turns-into-dinner. As the name suggests, oysters are the go here, and the sommelier will match your wine accordingly. Any oyster aficionado will tell you it’s a little hard to fill up on them completely, so treat it as a pre-dinner course before you get to the main event. Pro tip: head along to $1 oyster hour every Wednesday at 6pm.
What you need to know
Address: 225 George St, Sydney
Opening times: Monday and Tuesday 7:30am-9pm, Wednesday 7:30am-12am, Thursday 7:30am-1am, Friday 7:30am-2am, Saturday 11:30am-2am, Sunday 11:30am-10:30pm
Find them on Facebook: The Morrison Bar & Oyster Room
Yama Japanese Cafe Restaurant, QVB
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling (Clare Valley, SA) or a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW).
Try the… loose leaf teas, and the rest will follow.
Right in the heart of the QVB is Yama Japanese, a fusion of traditional and contemporary Japanese dining. Relax after a days shopping with a loose leaf tea from their extensive collection and a scrumptious cake. Or three. We’re not judging.
What you need to know
Address: Level 2, QVB, Sydney
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday 10am-6pm, Thursday 10am-9pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 11am-5pm
Find them online: Yama Japanese Cafe & Restaurant
Taste of Shanghai, World Square
Your free wine is: a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW) or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Pork and chive dumplings ($9.80). Note: you will need to spend more than $50 on food in order to receive the wine.
Do you love dumplings? Do you love oodles of dumplings? Could you order dumplings happily for the rest of your life? Then this is the place for you. Inner city dining goes Chinese, and does it well.
What you need to know
Address: 177 Forest Rd, Hurstville
Opening Hours: Daily 11am-10pm
Find them online: Taste of Shanghai
Bistro Fax Restaurant & Bar, O'Connell St
Your free wine is: a Deep Woods Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River) or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (Margaret River).
Try the… Roast beef, glazed onion and horseradish sandwich (part of the high tea, $50 per person).
Just inside the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney is the Bistro Fax Restaurant and Bar, where you can enjoy a high tea of delicious finger food inside one of Sydney’s historic buildings.
What you need to know
Address: 27 O’Connell St, Sydney
Opening hours: Daily 6:30am till late
Find them online: Bistro Fax Restaurant & Bar
@ Bangkok, Capitol Square
Your free wine is: a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW), or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (Margaret River, WA)
The idea behind @ Bangkok is fairly straightforward. It’s "Thai food for Thai people", right in the middle of Thaitown (yes, that’s a place – just next door to Chinatown in Haymarket). If you want authentic Thai cuisine without the hassle of jumping on a plane, this is the place to go.
What you need to know
Address: Shop G11, Capitol Square, Sydney
Opening hours: Sunday to Monday 11:30am-4:30pm, 5:30pm-2am, Friday and Saturday 11:30am-4:30pm, 5:30pm-4am
Phone number: (02) 9211 5232
Just Pure Restaurant, Market St
Your free wine is: a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (Margaret River, WA) or a Pyren Vineyard ‘Broken Quartz’ Shiraz (Pyrenees, Vic).
Try the… Twice-cooked Byron Bay Berkshire pork belly with mashed potato, broccoli, and cannelloni bean ragout ($28).
200,000 bees live on the roof of Swissotel Sydney, where Just Pure Restaurant is located. Why is that relevant, you ask? Because they’re producing the organic honey you’ll be buying for later. The menu takes on a similarly locally sourced vibe, although perhaps not quite as local as directly above your head.
What you need to know
Address: 68 Market St, Sydney
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 6am-10:30am, 5:30pm-10pm, Sunday 6am-10:30am
Find them on Facebook: Swissotel Hotels & Resorts
THE ROCKS & CIRCULAR QUAY
Sydney Cove Oyster Bar, Circular Quay
Your free wine is: a Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA) or a Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA).
Try the… oysters, naturally. With a Bloody Mary salsa (tomato salsa and vodka dressing), they’re $22 for a half dozen.
As you’d expect from a top quality oyster bar, all their oysters are sourced from the best seasonal rivers, and are shucked to order. Served five ways, they’re complemented by a menu that showcases the best in Australian seafood. You'll never feel closer to the sea... literally. Dining right on Circular Quay will do that to you.
What you need to know
Address: Lot 1, Circular Quay E, Sydney
Opening times: Monday to Friday 9am-11pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am-11pm.
Find them on Facebook: Sydney Cove Oyster Bar
Waterfront Restaurant, The Rocks
Your free wine: Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc or a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Hot & Cold Seafood Platter for two: a succulent selection of crayfish, blue swimmer crab, tiger prawns, Balmain bugs, oysters, mussels, baby calamari, market fresh fish & smoked salmon served with fries, mixed leaf salad, and tartare sauce ($185).
We clearly don’t need to tell you about the views here – the name says it all. But if you insist, it’s the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, naturally. We might as well just talk about the mouth-watering menu, which showcases the best in Australian dining: fresh seafood, steak cooked on the grill, gourmet pizzas, and platters of nibbles to enjoy over drinks.
What you need to know
Address: 27 Circular Quay, The Rocks
Opening times: Monday to Sunday, lunch from 12pm and dinner from 5:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Dockside Group
Imperial Peking Harbourside, Circular Quay
Try the… Eleven course degustation menu, including steamed prawn dumplings, salt and pepper calamari, and pork spare ribs ($59.80 per person).
It’s traditional Pekinese cuisine updated for a contemporary palate at Imperial Peking Harbourside. Leave your car with the doorman and head inside for degustations of fresh seafood and dumplings.
What you need to know
Address: 15 Circular Quay West
Opening hours: Monday to Friday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-11pm, Saturday and Sunday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-12am
Find them online: Imperial Peking Harbourside
The Meat & Wine Co., Circular Quay
Your free wine is: a Feet First Cabernet Merlot or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Monte Grain Select (grain-fed 120 days) Fillet Steak ($34).
The name pretty much gives it all away. These guys do meat – and wine – really, really well. Their steak list alone stretches into the double digits, and that’s before you get to the rest of the meat. What the name doesn’t give away is the spectacular views over Circular Quay, which makes it ideal for an early sunset drink that stretches on into dinner.
What you need to know
Address: Shop 12, Lobby, InterContinental Sydney, 117 Macquarie St, Sydney
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 12pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-11pm
Find them on Facebook: The Meat & Wine Co.
Wolfies, Circular Quay
Your free wine is: a Feet First Cabernet Merlot or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Braised Beef Short Rib Pizza, with fior de latte, lemon zest and thyme base caramelized onion, roast garlic and robiola cheese ($31).
A beautiful old building, spectacular views of the Opera House, and a divine menu to boot… you must be dining in The Rocks. Wolfies gives you two dining options: outside on the Sydney Harbour foreshore, or inside in one of the intimate sandstone private rooms. On offer is a mix of gourmet pizzas, fresh seafood, and hearty Australian meats.
What you need to know
Address: 27 Circular Quay W, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday 10am-10pm
Find them on Facebook: Wolfies
Italian Village, The Rocks
Your free wine is: a Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA), or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Caramelised Root Vegetable Ravioli with saffron pasta, pea veloute and toasted herb crumbs ($21.95).
The name is a misnomer. Executive Chef Adam Birtles is also going down the modern Australian, Greek, Mexican, Asian, and Indian route. Confused? So are we, but the food is good and the views spectacular, so don’t let it bother you.
What you need to know
Address: 7 Circular Quay W, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Thursday 5pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-late
Find them online: Italian Village
Icons Brasserie, The Rocks
Your free wine is: a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon or a Clairault Cabernet Merlot (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Seared John Dory with crushed kipfler potatoes, rustic tomato and leek sauce ($38).
We’ll be honest: if you don’t like seafood, you should probably turn back now. If you do like seafood, you’ve come to the right place. Peruse the buffet heaped with oysters, lobsters, prawns, crabs, mussels and anything and everything in between. Choose a little of everything, but save some room for dessert.
What you need to know
Address: 7 Circular Quay W, The Rocks
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 6:30am-10:30am, 6pm-10:30pm, Saturday 7am-11am, 6pm-10:30pm, Sunday 7am-11am
Find them online: Icons Brasserie
DARLING HARBOUR
The Meat & Wine Co., Darling Harbour
Your free wine is: a Feet First Cabernet Merlot or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Monte Grain Select (grain-fed 120 days) Fillet Steak ($34).
The fore runner of the Circular Quay one, the Darling Harbour Meat & Wine Co. is Sydney's original. Really, you only need to decide whether you'd prefer the views over Darling Harbour or Circular Quay to decide between the two.
What you need to know
Address: Level 1, 31 Wheat Rd, IMAX Theatre Complex, Cockle Bay, Darling Harbour
Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 12pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-11pm
Find them on Facebook: The Meat & Wine Co.
Shipleys, Darling Harbour
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Pyren Vineyard ‘Yardbird’ Cabernet Malbec (Pyrenees Region, VIC)
For a bit of Sydney history, look no further. Shipleys Restaurant (located within the Holiday Inn Darling Harbour) is where the bustling wool trading floor once was – and has the expansive ironbark beams and cast iron pillars to prove it. Mains from $29.95.
What you need to know
Address: 68 Harbour St, Sydney
Find them online: Holiday Inn Darling Harbour
Zaafrran
Your free wine is: a Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Zaaffran Khoorus Biryani: Biryani rise and chicken with ‘birista’, ‘garam masala’, mint, and saffron, combined under flaky pastry. Served with raita ($25.80).
Overlooking Darling Harbour is the place that’s constantly reinventing what it means to serve Indian cuisine. Zaaffran’s Head Chef Vikrant Kapoor is winning fans for his innovation and his talent in bringing the humble curry to fine dining levels.
What you need to know
Address: Level 2, 10 Darling Drive
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday 12pm-2:30pm, 6pm-9:30pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm-2:30pm, 6pm-10:15pm.
Find them on Facebook: Zaaffran
PYRMONT & ULTIMO
Essen Restaurant and Beer Cafe, Ultimo
Your free wine is: a Hahndorf Hill Sauvignon Blanc (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA).
Try the… Pork Schnitzel ($19.50).
It might seem odd to drink a complimentary bottle of wine from a beer cafe, but hey – we’re not ones to look gift horses in the mouth. When their aim is to showcase the best in European dining, that pretty much has to include a brewski. They also do schnapps. You might want to cancel whatever plans you had for tomorrow morning... it's a pretty extensive list.
What you need to know
Address: 133-135 Broadway, Ultimo
Opening hours: Monday to Tuesday 5pm-9pm, Wednesday 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-9pm, Thursday 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-9:30pm, Friday 12pm-2:30pm, 5pm-10pm, Saturday 5pm-10pm, Sunday 5pm-9pm
Find them on Facebook: Essen Restaurant and Beer Cafe
Ripples, Sydney Wharf
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling (Clare Valley, SA) or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (Margaret River, WA)
Try the… Pan seared scallops, asparagus, lemon, thyme, tomato, and saffron potato puree (to share, $22).
Ripples could be the mostly aptly named restaurant in Sydney. You’ll be dining on the boardwalk mere metres from the water – or ripples, as it were. Afterwards? Take your pick: you’re minutes away from the Maritime Museum, The Star Casino, and The Lyric Theatre.
What you need to know
Address: 56 Pirrama Rd, Pyrmont
Opening times: Monday to Sunday, lunch from 12pm, dinner from 6pm
Find them on Facebook: Ripples Restaurants
Sokyo, Pyrmont
Your free wine is: a Deep Woods Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA) or a Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA). The Hahndorf Hill received the silver menu at the Sydney Royal Wine Show 2014.
Try the… Kurobuta Pork: thinly sliced pork belly, dashu jelly, mache, ginger salty caramel (prices unavailable).
Tokyo-buzz meets Sydney-cool, Sokyo is all about the individual dining experience. Head along to this award winning restaurant for a personalised “Sokyo Menu” from your waiter and expert advice from the Sake Sommelier.
What you need to know
Address: 80 Pyrmont St, Pyrmont
Opening times: Monday to Wednesday 5:30pm-9:30pm, Thursday 5:30pm-10:30pm, Friday 12pm-2:30pm, 5:30pm-10:30pm, Saturday 5:30pm-10:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Sokyo
Sugaroom, Pyrmont
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW)
Try the… Braised lamb shoulder with olive, courgette, and eschalot ratatouille ($35).
Some of Sydney’s best dining also comes with some of Sydney’s best views. This one is across Johnston’s Bay to Balmain. Drink it in while you drink your wine, complemented – of course – by something from the grill.
What you need to know
Address: end of Harris St, Pyrmont, at the waterfront
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10pm, Saturday 6pm-10pm, Sunday 12pm-6pm
Find them online: Sugaroom Restaurant & Wine Bar
INNER WEST
Thai Riffic, Newtown
Your free wine is: a Coobe Farm Pinot Noir (Yarra Valley, VIC) or a Map Maker Sauvignon Blanc (Malborough, NZ).
Try the… Chilli jam soft shell crab, with shallots, sweet basil and sliced red chilli ($22.90).
Perhaps one of the best things about Thai Riffic in Newtown is eating in the picturesque courtyard, complete with birdcage lights and heaters in the cooler months. Or maybe it’s starting your meal with a traditionally Thai flavoured cocktail; think kaffir lime and mangosteens. We may never decide between the two.
What you need to know
Address: 109 King St, Newtown
Opening Hours: Daily 10:30am-3pm, 5:30pm-10pm
Find them on Facebook: Thai Riffic Newtown
3 Weeds
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Merlot (McLaren Vale, SA) or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… O’Connor pasture fed beef fillet, with teardrop cherry tomatoes, olives, crisp white polenta and tapenade ($42).
Sydney has a lot of pubs. A lot of good pubs. These guys were named as the ‘Best Restaurant in a Pub’ in 2012 and 2013, so you might want to check them out. Chef Lauren Murdoch has created a menu using fresh ingredients straight from their very own organic vegetable and herb garden. How many pubs can boast about that?
What you need to know
Address: 197 Evans St, Rozelle
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm
Find them on Facebook: 3 Weeds Rozelle
Sir William Wallace, Balmain
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling or a Neagles Rock ‘Mr Duncan’ Shiraz Cabernet (both Clare Valley, SA).
Try the… Roast of the day with all the trimmings ($16 on Thursday and Sundays).
Sir William Wallace – or, as it’s affectionately known to locals, the Willy Wally – is known for a few key things: good pub grub, quality banter, and being Mel Gibson’s watering hole of choice. Take that last one as you will...
What you need to know
Address: 31 Cameron St, Balmain
Opening Hours: Monday 12pm-12am, Tuesday to Saturday 11am-12am, Sunday 11am-10pm
Find them on Facebook: Sir William Wallace Hotel
ABHI’s, North Strathfield
Your free wine is: a Clairault Cabernet Merlot or a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (both Margaret River, WA)
Try the… Patiala Goat Curry: Punjabi style slow cooked goat with milled chilies, tomato, mace and garam masala, finished off with fresh coriander ($47.50 as part of the Banquet).
It's Indian that’s a little step up from your usual take away. Listings in the SMH Good Food Guide and receiving a Chef’s Hat and Wine Glass should be enough to convince you it’s time to head down and check it out. If it's not, we're afraid there's no hope for you. Perhaps a free drink will sort you out.
What you need to know
Address: 163 Concord Rd, North Strathfield
Opening Hours: Monday to Friday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10pm, Saturday 6pm-10pm, Sunday 12pm-3pm, 6pm-10pm
Find them online: ABHI’s
Laytani Lebanese Cuisine & Cafe, Strathfield South
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling (Clare Valley, SA) or a Hugh Hamilton Shiraz (McLaren Vale, SA)
Try the… Laytani Mega Mixed Plate: hummus, tabouli, sambusik, kibby, falafel, chips, vine leaves, and meats ($26).
What’s better than traditional Lebanese flavours? Enjoying a shisha afterwards, of course. Their range of shisha flavours is almost as extensive as their menu… almost.
What you need to know
Address: 372-374 Liverpool Rd, Strathfield South
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday 5pm-12am, Thursday to Friday 11:30am-12am
Find them on Facebook: Laytani Lebanese Cuisine and Cafe
LOWER NORTH SHORE
Ormeggio At The Spit, Mosman
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Sangiovese (McLaren Vale, SA) or a Hugh Hamilton Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA).
Try the… Organic glazed lamb shoulder with goat’s yoghurt, roasted heirloom carrots and mint (two courses for $80).
Contemporary Italian is on the menu here, and by that, we mean a little more than your average pizza and pasta dishes. With Alessandro Pavoni working behind the scenes, could you expect anything less? Then of course there’s the beautiful water views over The Spit. Dine in paradise, and dream of the boat you’ll one day buy.
What you need to know
Address: D’Albora Marinas, The Spit, Mosman
Opening Hours: Lunch Thursday to Sunday 12pm-3pm, dinner Wednesday to Saturday 6pm-11pm, Sunday 6pm-10pm, kiosk Wednesday to Sunday 9am-3:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Ormeggio
Ripples, Milsons Point
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock Riesling (Clare Valley, SA) or a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW)
Try the… Atlantic Salmon, Balsamic Lentils, and Celeriac Puree ($32).
The best bit about Ripples in Milson’s Point isn’t the world class yet intimate views of Sydney Harbour, or that Alessandro Pavoni (of 2 hatted restaurant Ormeggio at The Spit) designed the menu, or even that the service is exemplary.
It’s that it’s one of the last places left in Sydney that’s BYO. Go on. Get your free bottle of wine… but bring a few extra, too.
What you need to know
Address: Olympic Drive, Milsons Point
Opening Hours: Breakfast Monday to Friday 8am-11am, Saturday and Sunday 7:30am-10:30am; Lunch Monday to Sunday from 12pm; Dinner Monday to Sunday from 6pm
Find them on Facebook: Ripples Restaurants
Aqua Dining, Milsons Point
Your free wine is: a Patrick of Coonawarra Riesling (Wrattonbully and Coonawarra, SA) or a Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA).
Try the… Pork scotch fillet with mustard, braised shallots, puffed grains, and nasturtium leaves (two courses $69).
Sydney views don’t get much better than this. Located just above the North Sydey Olympic Pool, next to the iconic Luna Park face, Aqua Dining is an award-winning restaurant looking out over Sydney Harbour. Come expecting innovating Australian dining, leave with a full stomach and satisfied dining companions.
What you need to know
Address: Corner Paul & Northcliffe St, Milsons Point
Opening Hours: Daily, lunch from 12pm, dinner from 6:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Aqua Dining
Shanghai Stories 1938, Chatswood
Your free wine is: a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon or a Clairault Cabernet Merlot (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Spicy Crab Meat Xiao Long Bao ($12.80). Note: you will to spend more than $50 on food in order to receive the wine.
The chefs here are creating innovative twists on traditional Shanghai cuisine, so you know you want to head down and give it a whirl. Enjoy the charms and delights of a bygone era (1930s Shanghai) but with all the delightful conveniences of 21st century Sydney.
What you need to know
Address: Shop 4 & 6, The Concourse, 409 Victoria Ave, Chatswood
Opening Hours: Daily 11am-4pm, 5:30pm-10pm
Find them online: Shanghai Stories 1938
Public Dining Room, Balmoral
Your free wine is: a Clairault Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA) or a Hahndorf Hill Sauvignon Blanc (Adelaide Hills, SA).
Try the… Market fish (check on the day) with caramelised witlof, charred squash, elderflower and white zucchini puree, lime gel, crispy kale, and brazil nut crumble ($39).
You couldn’t ask for a more picturesque dining spot in Balmoral. Huge open windows, the Balmoral wharf, and the enormous fig trees the area is known for. Food wise you’re looking at modern Australian with Italian influences, with a to-be-expected emphasis on fresh seafood. You are at the beach, after all.
What you need to know
Address: 2A The Esplanade, Mosman
Opening Hours: Lunch Monday to Sunday from 12pm, dinner Monday to Saturday from 6pm, breakfast Saturday and Sunday from 8am
Find them on Facebook: Public Dining Room
Indulgent Sage, McMahons Point
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Neagles Rock ‘Mr Duncan’ Shiraz Cabernet (Clare Valley, SA).
Try the… Flame grilled chicken burger, with fresh slaw, crispy bacon, fried egg, cheddar cheese, chilli jam and crunchy fries ($22).
There’s a few key phrases that will get us through any restaurant door: share food, seasonal produce, Sydney Harbour views. This place has all three.
What you need to know
Address: 165 Blues Point Rd, McMahons Point
Opening Hours: Monday 7am-4pm, Tuesday to Friday 7am-10pm, Saturday 8am-10pm, Sunday 8am-10pm
Find them on Facebook: Indulgent Sage
UPPER NORTH SHORE
Orchards Restaurant, North Ryde
Your free wine is: a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon or a Clairault Cabernet Merlot (both Margaret River, WA)
It’s part of the Marriot Hotel in North Ryde, but don’t let the thought of hotel dining put you off. The food is winning fans, especially for those in need of some fast dining. Mains from $28.
What you need to know
Address: 7-11 Talavera Rd, North Ryde
Opening Hours: open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Find them online: Orchards Restaurant
Season Thai, Gordon
Your free wine is: a Map Maker Sauvignon Blanc (Malborough, NZ) or a Coombe Farm Pinot Noir (Yarra Valley, NSW).
Try the… Thai style slow cooked pork belly with sweet soy cinnamon and star anise, served with stir fried bok choy ($20.90).
Don’t come to Season Thai expecting your traditional Pad Thai or Pad See Ew. There’s that too, of course, but you should let the menu take you by the hand and guide you through the flavours of northern Thailand. It’s got all the necessary ‘s’ words – sweet, sour, and spicy – but we’ll add another to that mix: sizzling.
What you need to know
Address: 780 Pacific Highway, Gordon
Phone number: (02) 9499 9093
The Cook’s Garden, North Turramurra
Your free wine is: a Patrick of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (Wrattonbully, SA) or a Hugh Hamilton Chardonnay (Adelaide Hills, SA)
Try the… Wood fire roasted Spatchcock, hummus, spiced carrot and currant salad, Persian feta, toasted pistachios, and lemon thyme oil ($35).
The Cook’s Garden has the charm of an English-style pub, minus the less-than-charming English weather. You can actually sit in the garden or courtyard without the need for several layers of clothing, which is as good a reason to head down for a glass of wine and meal as any. If that’s not enough, maybe the live music every Sunday night will do the trick.
What you need to know
Address: 272 Bobbin Head Rd, North Turramurra
Opening Hours: Restaurant – lunch and dinner, Wednesday to Sunday, breakfast on Sundays. The Garden Tap: Cafe/Bar – Tuesday 9am-5pm, Wednesday to Sunday 9am till late
Find them online: The Cook’s Garden
Bar Angolo, Ryde
Your free wine is: a First Creek Shiraz or a First Creek Verdelho (both Hunter Valley, NSW).
Try the… Diavola Pizza: tomato, mozzarella, spicy salami and basil ($22).
These guys take great pride in their food being cooked ‘the Italian way’. Order up a pizza and watching the dough get stretched by hand, before being cooked straight on the hot stone. We reckon it gives it that edge you don’t find in other pizzas, but we guess you’ll just have to go along to find out for yourself.
What you need to know
Address: Level Ground La Piazza, 109-129 Blaxland Rd, Top Ryde Shopping Centre, Ryde
Opening Hours: Monday 8am-5pm, Tuesday to Sunday 8am-9:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Bar Angolo
EASTERN SUBURBS
Trio, Bondi
Your free wine is: a Clairault Cabernet Merlot or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Wagyu Pastrami Reuben Sandwich: thinly sliced warm wagyu with sauerkraut & swiss gruyere on wholemeal rye ($24).
There’s something to be said about Bondi restaurants that make the most of their stunning location – they’re doing it right. Trio has panoramic views over Bondi Beach, and offers up a mix of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern eating. In need of a pick-me-up? Their coffee is a freshly roasted blend of rainforest alliance, fairtrade and organic coffee beans, so you could say it hits every spot… including the one that needed caffeine. You’re welcome.
What you need to know
Address: 56 Campbell Parade, Bondi
Opening times: Monday to Friday 7:30am-3:30pm, Saturday and Sunday 8am-4pm
Find them on Facebook: Trio Bondi
The Royal Oak, Balmain
Your free wine is: a Hahndorf Hill Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Clairault Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… The 150 day dry aged beef. It’s a 300gm Scotch Fillet, and has a Marble Score of 2+ ($35).
Old world charm meets modern day design at this Balmain institution. For decades it’s been a central hub for Eastern suburbs locals, but it’s not just loyalty and nostalgia that keeps them coming back; have you tried their grain fed, 150 day dry aged beef?
That’s right. These guys are serious about their steak. It even warrants it’s own menu.
What you need to know
Address: 36 College Street, Balmain
Opening times: Monday to Saturday 12pm-12am, Sunday 12pm-10pm
Find them on Facebook: The Royal Oak Balmain
Pink Salt, Double Bay
Your free wine is: a Hahndorf Hill (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Twice Cooked Pork Belly with apple and colcannon mash and seeded mustard jus ($32).
These guys take their presentation seriously. You’re not just ordering a meal, you’re ordering an Instagram-worthy photo that will put whatever else you had that day to shame. Our advice is to eat out on the sun-drenched patio, because a) it’s sun-drenched, and b) natural light makes for the best photos. This place oozes the chilled Double Bay vibes.
What you need to know
Address: 53 Cross St, Double Bay
Opening times: Tuesday to Sunday 12pm-12am
Find them on Facebook: Pink Salt
Lucio’s, Paddington
Your free wine is: a First Creek Shiraz or a First Creek Verdelho (both Hunter Valley, NSW).
Try the… Pistachio crusted Mirrool Creek lamb cutlets, served with peas, roasted eschallots, potato and pecorino croquette ($45).
Don’t you love it when the name of the restaurant directly correlates with the owner? Lucio’s is owned by Lucio Galletto, and it’s become something of a Paddington favourite. As an Italian bistro there are (of course) your pastas, but they’ve strayed further, with oysters to start and meat-focused dishes in the middle. After over two decades in operation, they must be doing something right.
What you need to know
Address: 47 Windsor St, Paddington
Opening times: Tuesday to Saturday 12:30pm-3pm, 6:30pm-11pm
Find them on Facebook: Lucio’s Italian Restaurant
Santorini on Oxford, Darlinghurst
Your free wine is: a Pyren Vineyard ‘Yardbird’ Cabernet Malbec (Pyrenees Region, Vic), or a Patrick of Coonawarra ‘Mother of Pearl’ Sauvignon Blanc (Coonawarra, SA).
Try the… Saganaki: kefalotiry cheese golden fried and flamed with ouzo ($17).
Santorini on Oxford’s menu is bursting with tantalising-sounding names that evoke the salty breeze, towering cliffs, and white villas it’s namesake is known for: souvlaki, melitzana, saganaki, tyropita… this is traditional Greek dining done right. Best consumed with lashings of ouzo.
What you need to know
Address: 227 Oxford St, Sydney
Opening times: Monday to Sunday, 6pm-late
Find them online: Santorini on Oxford
NORTHERN BEACHES
Pilu, Freshwater
Your free wine is: a Clarence House Sauvignon Blanc (Cambridge, Tas), or a Deep Woods Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Ravioli of potato, mint and pecorino with burnt butter, sage, and black truffle paste ($28).
Two chefs hats, Sardinian flavours, and picturesque views of Freshwater beach… there’s a reason Pilu is picking up award after award. To sample a little of everything, work your way through the six course tasting menu. Coming in straight off the beach? You’ll definitley be happiest outside in the garden kiosk for an afternoon lunch.
What you need to know
Address: “On the beach”, Moore Rd, Freshwater
Opening hours: Lunch from 12pm Tuesday to Saturday, dinner from 6pm Tuesday to Sunday
Find them on Facebook: Pilu at Freshwater
Izumi Japanese Restaurant, Manly
Your free wine is: a Patrick of Coonawarra ‘Mother of Pearl’ Sauvignon Blanc (Coonawarra, SA) or a Mother of Pearl Shiraz (Wrattonbully, SA)
Try the… Spicy Yakiniku Don: beef or pork grilled in ginger sauce, served on a bowl of rice with added chilli. Comes with miso soup ($19.80).
Like they say, it’s “authentic Japanese fare that doesn’t break the bank”. The best part? It’s walking distance from the beach, so perfect for a post-dip feed that won’t leave you too bloated to get back on the sand.
What you need to know
Address: 51 Sydney Rd, Manly
Opening times: Monday 6pm-11pm, Tuesday to Sunday 12pm-11pm
Find them on Facebook: Izumi
SOUTH SYDNEY
Norton’s Restaurant, Warwick Farm
Your free wine is: a Clairault Sauvignon Blanc Semillon (Margaret River, WA) or a Pyren Vineyard ‘Broken Quartz’ Shiraz (Pyrenees, VIC).
Tucked away in the Holiday Inn Warwick Farm, you’ll be feasting on modern Australian dishes in the beautiful Japanese shinto garden. Throw in some seasonal produce, and you have yourself a winner. Mains are from $20.
What you need to know
Address: 355 Hume Hwy, Liverpool
Opening Hours: Daily 6am-10am, 5:30pm till late
Find them on Facebook: Holiday Inn Warwick Farm
Sahra, Brighton-Le-Sands
Your free wine is: a Feet First Cabernet Merlot or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (both Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Shawarma: char grilled lamb strips marinated in sumac, onions, and capsicum, served with tahini on pita ($24.90).
What’s the best way to end a Lebanese feast of seafood, hot and cold mezze, and fresh seafood? With a few drags of the shisha, of course, sitting back and looking out over picturesque Botany Bay.
What you need to know
Address: 88A The Grand Parade, Brighton Le Sands
Opening times: Tuesday to Thursday 6pm-11pm, Friday 6pm-11:30pm, Saturday 6p,-1am, Sunday 12pm-11pm
Find them on Facebook: Sahra
Sirocco - Holiday Inn, Mascot
Your free wine is: a Neagles Rock ‘Mr Duncan’ Shiraz Cabernet or a Neagles Rock Riesling (both Clare Valley, SA).
Next time you’re killing time near Sydney Airport, swing by Sirocco for Mediterranean-influences and seasonal dining. The trick here is to find a travel buddy to split the wine with you; a whole bottle to yourself just before a flight might be pushing things a little. Might.
What you need to know
Address: Bourke Rd & O’Riodan St, Mascot
Opening hours: Daily 5:30pm-10pm
Find them online: Sirocco, Holiday Inn
GREATER WESTERN SYDNEY
Cibo e Vino, Castle Hill
Your free wine is: a Mother of Pearl Shiraz (Wrattonbully, SA) or a Feet First Semillon Sauvignon Blanc (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Penne Crab and Mussels: Premium Blue Swimmer Crab, Mussels meat, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, lemon, rockets and a touch of Napolitana sugo ($24.5).
If you put your trust in the Sydney Morning Herald, you’ll want to head to Cibo e Vino. Soon. They’ve been the top-rated restaurant in the SMH Good Food Guide for the past four years, so they must be doing something right. That something is Italian: bowls of pasta dripping with sauce, crunchy bruschetta topped with fresh tomato, and juicy meat cooked to perfection.
What you need to know
Address: 2/299-301 Old Northern Rd, Castle Hill
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 5pm-10:30pm, Saturday 12pm-3pm, 5pm-10:30pm
Find them on Facebook: Cibo e Vino
Courtney’s Brasserie, Parramatta
Your free wine is: a First Creek Shiraz or a First Creek Verdelho (both Hunter Valley, NSW).
A beautifully restored historic cottage, an ethically-minded approach to their food, and a mouth-watering menu… what more could you want in an eatery? Everything on their modern Australian menu is sourced within a 200km radius, which luckily for you, includes both the ocean and country NSW. Dining bliss. Mains start from $29.
What you need to know
Address: Shop 12/30 Charles St, Parramatta
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday from 12pm for lunch, Tuesday to Saturday from 6pm for dinner
Find them on Facebook: Courtney’s Brasserie
Biviano’s, Windsor
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Chardonnay (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a First Creek Shiraz (Hunter Valley, NSW).
Try the… Scaloppini Saltimbocca: veal with prosciutto, provolone cheese, and cream sauce (from $27).
You’ll want to give the restaurant a heads up (24 hours in advance) if you want the seafood platter for two – well worth the extra organisational time. Otherwise, stroll in to this restored 1840s heritage cottage to feast on classic Italian dishes such as arancini balls, calamari fritti, and a range of scaloppini.
What you need to know
Address: 9 Baker St, Windsor
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday 12pm-3pm, Tuesday to Sunday 5:30pm till late
Find them online: Biviano’s Italian Restaurant
My Place Cafe, Castle Hill
Your free wine is: a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA) or a Patrick of Coonawarra ‘Mother of Pearl’ Sauvignon Blanc (Coonawarra, SA).
Head inside the Castle Towers Piazza and you’ll find towering burgers, succulent steaks, and a whole range of mouthwatering desserts for afterwards. Mains from $17.
What you need to know
Address: 6-14 Castle St, Castle Hill
Find them on Facebook: My Place Cafe
Allure Restaurant & Bar, Dural
Your free wine is: a Hugh Hamilton Pinot Grigio (Adelaide Hills, SA) or a Feet First Cabernet Merlot (Margaret River, WA).
Try the… Fresh Barramundi Fillet served with sauteed kipfler potatoes and baby spinach topped with blackcurrant and pine nut salsa ($30).
Modern Australian is what’s on the plate, with fresh fish, grilled King Prawns and a few varieties of steak to satisfy the meat-lover. There’s an Italian influence running through the menu, so you may want to pop back a few times to properly try everything. All in the name of research, of course.
What you need to know
Address: Unit 11/829 Old Northern Rd, Dural 2158
Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 6pm, also open Fridays for lunch
Find them online: Allure Restaurant & Bar
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