Best Lunch Restaurants in Sydney

"Whilst the regular ferry services are a great way to experience the beauty of Sydney Harbour, a day or night cruise over the Harbour is a wonderful experience that often includes drinks and a meal. On a cruise, you typically have a lot more space to wander around, and there are fewer people on the boat than on a regular ferry. A cruise is also much slower, which gives you the opportunity to really soak in the beauty that surrounds you."

"There are numerous options for getting out and seeing Sydney from the water. The cheapest option is to get on one of the ferries. You'll still have the opportunity to check out the Opera House from a different angle, possibly see some marine life, whilst at the same time getting to your destination, which is, more often than not, Manly."

"There is something about eating outside that makes your meal taste even better, and Sydney’s sunny atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for an outdoor dining spot!. But where does one start?. Sydney is home to countless outdoor restaurants, offering both delicious food and jaw-dropping views!"

"A party-time oasis of pink flamingos and private cabanas for the past 12 years, Ivy Pool Club underwent a refresh in 2020 to provide more al fresco dining options. Additional booths and poolside tables were installed, and chef Vincenzo Biondini expanded his menu to include Italian-ish salads and antipasto such as mortadella, burrata and giardiniera. Pool Club now has table service too, and guests really keen to push out the inflatable swan can order caviar and Dom Perignon from Uccello next door."

"Ivy Pool Club is one of Sydney's most popular bars, found at the top of the Ivy complex in Sydney CBD. Recline in a private cabana or take a dip in the crystal clear water under the city skyline, with premium cocktails and Italian-style bites available if you get hungry."

"Inspired by the Italian coastline, this rooftop pool bar is a taste of the Mediterranean in the heart of the city. “I arrived here just 2 weeks before the lockdown and a lot of my friends told me that this venue was great!. So, I just want to live the experience as well!"

"Chatkazz is a haven for Indian street snacks – a massive, colourful and busy restaurant with diners hooking into classics such as biryani and roti, alongside bizarre (and delicious) takes on Western snacks like club sandwiches and pizza. Shop 4, 14-20 Station Street E, Harris Park"

"Chatkazz is a culinary gem and delivers a truly special eating experience. The term means “spicy and delicious”, and that’s exactly what you’ll get from this popular Harris Park spot. It specialises in street food and farsan (salty snacks) that’ll transport you directly to India."

"If you’re craving some authentic Indian street food, Chatkazz needs to be your go-to. Both delivery and pick up are available. 📍Chatkazz, Shop 4-6/14-20 Station St E, Harris Park NSW 2150 📍Chatkazz Bella Vista, Shop A1/24-32 Lexington Dr, Bella Vista NSW 2153"

"Cafe Vizio Caffe e Cucina is laden with old-world charm and customers are treated like family. For a unique breakfast experience, order your cup of robust, specially-curated beans and bring a few friends along to enjoy a breakfast fit for royalty. Pair it with a traditional Italian pastry, or fill yourself up with some bacon and eggs."

"Share the pleasures of life with friends and family at Vizio Caffe e Cucina on William Street in Woolloomooloo. With a name that has two meanings – family and home – catch up over a good dose of caffe..."

"In the heart of the bustling Crows Nest restaurant district lies Le Bouchon, a complete Café and Bistro destination that brings a taste of traditional French cuisine to the Lower North Shore. This is one of the best French restaurants in Sydney and features unique decor and an exclusive private function area. Le Bouchon is the perfect place to enjoy an intimate dinner or just a simple after work drinks."

"Used in Lyon to refer to bistros that are well-known for authenticity and conviviality, expect something of this nature from Le Bouchon café and bistro on Willoughby Road in Crows Nest."

"Get freshly baked croissants, sourdough sandwiches, baguettes, breakfast scrolls as well as order a selection of groceries and wines to take home from District Brasserie’s District Brasserie’s in-house Bakery and Espresso Bar. 📍District Brasserie, 2 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000"

"The plush red décor at this restaurant serving Pakistani-Indian dishes from the Mughal tradition takes its cue from the name, which means ‘red fort’. Toss poppadums aside and go with the exotic Paani Poori and Paneer Tikka for starters, then try Lal Qila’s specialty Handie – meat of your choice slow-cooked in clay pots, or the Sultani Nalli – tender baby lamb shanks with meat falling off the bone. Soak up the gravy with basmati pulao or biryani or breads served piping hot from the tandoor (try the delicious cheese and chili naan)."

"For those who like choice, new dining destination Epicurean offers diners a taste of nine different styles of cuisine from nine open kitchens. The fancy food court serves Japanese, Chinese, Indian and Italian cuisine, among others, with dishes created in full view of guests. Finish up with a drizzle of white, milk or dark chocolate from the showpiece chocolate fountain."

"Built to be “the Empire’s Greatest Theatre” at the peak of the Jazz Age, the State Theatre combines Gothic facades with a neoclassical interior and baroque auditorium, giving visitors a glimpse of the show business of yesteryear. The theatre is referred to as the “Palace of dreams”. Seating 2,034 people and filled with an impressive collection of classic art, including work by William Dobell, sculptures and stunning chandeliers, if you want to learn more amount this amazing property, book one of their guided tours."

"The State Theatre hosts loads of shows throughout the year ranging from musicals to comedies to burlesque so there’s something for everyone. As you’ll just be passing by, for now, make sure you take a look in at the beautiful art deco foyer."