You’ve arrived in Australia, the bags have been dropped at the hotel and you’ve hit Bondi Beach already. The next thing left to do is decide where to eat in Sydney, and with so many options for lunch and dinner we know choosing just one isn’t an easy feat.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of some of the top restaurants in Sydney. From fine dining at restaurants with a view to cheap eats by the beach, whatever your budget and preferred cuisine, we have you covered with our recommendations of places to eat in Sydney.

BACCOMATTO OSTERIA

The food here is excellent and that’s why Baccomatto Osteria has long since been one of the best Italian restaurants in Sydney. With a menu that changes seasonally and daily specials on offer, there’s always something new to try. We can’t get enough of the traditional Potato & Rosemary Gnocchi and Tomato Meatball dishes. There’s a separate menu for small and large groups too. Regulars have been known to eat here for the dessert alone.

This place is perfect for anyone looking for an informal restaurant that’s value for money and captures the electric feeling of being in Surry Hills. Regardless of what you end up ordering, make sure you ask the sommelier for a wine recommendation paired to your meal choice.

Red Tour Route, Stop: William St.
Blue Tour Route, Stop: William St.
baccomattoosteria.com.au

ARIA RESTAURANT

Known as one of the most romantic restaurants in Sydney, Aria is the perfect location for anyone looking for a special treat on date night. Choose the Aria Signature Four Course Menu and request a table near the windows if you can, with views of both the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.

If you’re booking with a larger group, why not order something designed to be enjoyed by the whole table? The tasting menu with matching wines gives diners a delicious sample of executive chef Joel Bickford’s contemporary creations for a fraction of the regular price.

Iron a crisp white shirt or reach for your favourite LBD and look forward to a wonderful fine dining experience like no other.

Red Tour Route, Stop: Sydney Opera House
ariasydney.com.au

FISH AT THE ROCKS 

Competition is stiff when it comes to the title of best seafood restaurant in Sydney. This means wherever you go you’re bound to have a great meal. But one restaurant seems to stick out from the rest attracting regular visits from Australian natives across the country and tourists alike. We think that deserves a mention.

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Spend a morning exploring New South Wales then pop in to Fish at The Rocks for lunch and you’ll be dining at one the nicest restaurants in the area. Family-friendly and reasonably priced with an array of options on the menu, there’s something for everyone… even the fussy eaters at the table.

Make sure you try the freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters with ginger and soy.

For a true seafood extravaganza, order the Crustacean Platter for two and feast on scrumptious scampi, garlic lobster, Moreton bay bugs and giant prawns. What’s more, Fish at the Rocks is also one of the most relaxed BYO (bring your own) restaurants in Sydney. Take your own alcohol and enjoy the food with your drink of choice.

Red Tour Route, Stop: Barangaroo
fishattherocks.com.au

HURRICANE'S GRILL

A must-try for anyone travelling to Australia. Famous for its ribs Hurricane’s Grill is also one of the best steak restaurants in Sydney. For the best of both worlds meat lovers should choose from the combination menu.

Coating the majority of the contents on their menu in their original basting sauce, you won’t find flavours like this anywhere else. The portions are huge and everything on the menu is scrumptious, so go on an empty stomach. We recommend booking to beat the crowds and avoid disappointment.

Red Tour Route, Stop: Maritime Museum
darlingharbour.hurricanesgrill.com.au

BEACH BURRITO COMPANY

Looking for a cheap eat in Sydney? Look no further than Beach Burrito. Born out of the lack of Mexican food in Sydney, founder Blake Read decided to open its doors in 2006. This branch is ideally located on Bondi Beach, so you can tuck into delicious food as you watch all the surfers go by.

Arguably one of the best places to grab some food as the sun sets, expect 2 tacos or 4 taquitos for $10 and some amazing drink deals to match. They also cook a mean Karate Chicken Burger. With everything on the menu under $21, it’s a favourite amongst those travelling on a budget.

Blue Tour Route, Stop: North Bondi
beachburritocompany.com

Whether it’s a pre-show meal before visiting the Sydney Opera House, or simply want to indulge on some of the best food in Sydney with friends, we’re certain you’ll be blown away the moment you walk through the doors of any of these restaurants. And once you’re done with dinner, why not check out our guide to some of the best breakfast spots in Sydney