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Restaurants with Views

Scenic dining options overlooking Sydney Harbour and city skyline

Sections

1. Quay

  • View: Panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour.
  • Cuisine: Modern Australian fine dining.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Signature "White Coral" dessert.
    • Smoked pig jowl with black garlic and sea cucumber crackling.
    • Seasonal tasting menus featuring local seafood and produce.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 300โ€“400 per person for the tasting menu (drinks extra).
  • Reservations: Essential. Book online via their website or call at least 2โ€“3 weeks in advance, especially for weekend evenings.
  • Local Tips: Request a window seat for the best views. Dress code is smart casual, but many diners opt for formal attire.

2. Bennelong

  • View: Located inside the Sydney Opera House, offering views of the Harbour Bridge and Circular Quay.
  • Cuisine: Contemporary Australian with a focus on local ingredients.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Sydney rock oysters.
    • Slow-roasted lamb shoulder.
    • Pavlova dessert inspired by the Opera House sails.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 150โ€“250 per person for ร  la carte or set menus.
  • Reservations: Highly recommended. Book online via their website or through OpenTable.
  • Local Tips: Opt for the "Cured & Cultured" menu for a more casual dining experience. Arrive early to explore the Opera House precinct.

3. Aria

  • View: Spectacular views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from Circular Quay.
  • Cuisine: Modern Australian with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable ingredients.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Glacier 51 toothfish with miso and sesame.
    • Wagyu beef with smoked potato and black garlic.
    • Decadent cheese selection.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 200โ€“300 per person for a multi-course menu.
  • Reservations: Strongly advised. Book online or by phone. Window seats are in high demand.
  • Local Tips: Perfect for special occasions. The wine list is extensive, so ask the sommelier for pairing recommendations.

4. Cafรฉ Sydney

  • View: Rooftop views of Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, and the Harbour Bridge.
  • Cuisine: Modern Australian with seafood highlights.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Grilled Moreton Bay bugs with lemon and garlic butter.
    • Tasmanian salmon with miso glaze.
    • Mango and coconut pavlova.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 100โ€“150 per person for ร  la carte dining.
  • Reservations: Essential, especially for outdoor terrace seating. Book online or by phone.
  • Local Tips: Arrive at sunset for the best lighting and views. The atmosphere is lively but still suitable for romantic dinners.

5. Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

  • View: Overlooks Bondi Beach and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired with a focus on fresh seafood.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Kingfish crudo with citrus and fennel.
    • Spanner crab spaghetti.
    • Tiramisu with a modern twist.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 150โ€“200 per person for ร  la carte or set menus.
  • Reservations: Strongly recommended. Book online or by phone. Outdoor seating is limited.
  • Local Tips: Ideal for a long lunch. The vibe is chic and relaxed, so dress smart casual. Combine your visit with a walk along the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail.

6. Opera Bar

  • View: Unparalleled views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from the waterfront.
  • Cuisine: Casual Australian with a focus on share plates and drinks.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Fresh seafood platters.
    • Wagyu beef sliders.
    • Seasonal cocktails and local wines.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 50โ€“100 per person.
  • Reservations: No reservations required; walk-ins only. Arrive early to secure a good spot.
  • Local Tips: Best for casual dining or drinks with friends. Visit during "golden hour" for stunning photos.

7. The Boathouse on Blackwattle Bay

  • View: Overlooks Blackwattle Bay with views of the Anzac Bridge.
  • Cuisine: Seafood-focused Modern Australian.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Snapper pie with smoked tomato and mash.
    • Grilled octopus with native herbs.
    • Freshly shucked oysters.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 100โ€“150 per person.
  • Reservations: Recommended. Book online or by phone.
  • Local Tips: A hidden gem for seafood lovers. The atmosphere is relaxed yet elegant.

8. Watsons Bay Boutique Hotel

  • View: Stunning views of Sydney Harbour and the city skyline from Watsons Bay.
  • Cuisine: Casual Australian with a focus on seafood.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Beer-battered fish and chips.
    • Lobster rolls.
    • Prawn tacos.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 50โ€“100 per person.
  • Reservations: Recommended for weekends and holidays. Book online or by phone.
  • Local Tips: Accessible by ferry from Circular Quay. Perfect for a laid-back lunch or sunset drinks.

9. Altitude at Shangri-La Hotel

  • View: Elevated views of the Sydney Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and city skyline.
  • Cuisine: Contemporary Australian fine dining.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Murray cod with native greens.
    • Duck breast with Davidson plum.
    • Chocolate soufflรฉ with wattleseed ice cream.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 150โ€“250 per person for a multi-course menu.
  • Reservations: Essential. Book online or by phone.
  • Local Tips: Ideal for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The restaurant is located on the 36th floor, so the views are unmatched.

10. Catalina

  • View: Waterfront views of Rose Bay and Sydney Harbour.
  • Cuisine: Modern Australian with a focus on seafood.
  • Notable Dishes:
    • Yellowfin tuna sashimi.
    • Roast duck with orange and star anise.
    • Lemon tart with crรจme fraรฎche.
  • Estimated Cost: AUD 150โ€“200 per person.
  • Reservations: Recommended. Book online or by phone.
  • Local Tips: Arrive by seaplane for a unique experience. The atmosphere is elegant but relaxed.

Cultural Considerations and Tips

  1. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated for excellent service. A tip of 10% is common in fine dining establishments.
  2. Dress Code: Most restaurants with views in Sydney have a smart casual or formal dress code. Avoid overly casual attire like flip-flops or beachwear.
  3. Timing: Sunset is the most popular time for dining at these venues, so plan your reservations accordingly.
  4. Dietary Preferences: Most restaurants cater to dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Notify them in advance when making a reservation.
  5. Public Transport: Many of these restaurants are accessible via ferry, train, or bus. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.

Sydneyโ€™s dining scene offers a perfect blend of world-class cuisine and iconic views. Whether youโ€™re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying the cityโ€™s beauty, these restaurants promise unforgettable experiences.