Sydney
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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 300โ400 per person for the tasting menu (drinks extra).
- Reservations: Essential. Book online via their website or call at least 2โ3 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 150โ250 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 200โ300 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 100โ150 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 150โ200 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 50โ100 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 100โ150 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 50โ100 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 150โ250 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 150โ200 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
- Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but it is appreciated for excellent service. A tip of 10% is common in fine dining establishments.
- 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.
- Timing: Sunset is the most popular time for dining at these venues, so plan your reservations accordingly.
- Dietary Preferences: Most restaurants cater to dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free). Notify them in advance when making a reservation.
- Public Transport: Many of these restaurants are accessible via ferry, train, or bus. Consider using public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Sydneyโs dining scene offers a perfect blend of world-class cuisine and iconic views. Whether youโre celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying the cityโs beauty, these restaurants promise unforgettable experiences.