Where To Eat And Drink In Sydney, Australia

28.10.2023 - 10:35 / forbes.com

“The best things about Sydney are free,” resident Russell Crowe famously said — and with good reason. The Sydney limits boast over 100 free beaches (for surfing, loafing, and soaking in the sun), handfuls of stunning coastal walkways, and endless public plunge pools, national parks, and festivals sprinkled all over the city.

A trip down under is synonymous with sun, relaxation, and, well, a lot of fun. Australians are known for their next-level laissez-faire attitude towards life and that quickly becomes apparent as soon as you step off the plane. Whether you’re into food culture or you’re looking for the best bars to waste away a weekend, you’ve come to the right place. Here are a handful of bars and restaurants that range from premium priced to super affordable:

Quite possibly the most Instagrammable venue in all of Australia, the Icebergs, right next to Bondi Beach, boast unobstructed views of the sparkling Bondi coastline, where guests can waste away an afternoon watching surfers from above. The dining room itself boasts a seasonal menu focused on modern Italian cuisine and seasonal flavours, all executed by head chef Monty Koludrovic.

Getting a seat at Mr. Wong can be nearly impossible, but if you do grab a seat you’re in for a treat. The modern Cantonese menu boasts everything from dim sum to classic mud crab, all served in a stylish French-colonial dining room that’s super cozy, with nooks for two, dim lighting and moody jazz.

For classic modern Australian fare, look no further than Sixpenny. Here you’ll find playful tasting menus that feature homegrown, seasonal produce and sustainable seafood from local fisherman, served up in a beyond cozy (yet contemporary) dining room.

If you’re traveling with friends that just can’t seem to come to a conclusion on wine bar, divey pub, or club, head to The Dolphin Hotel. Featuring three distinct spaces, this bustling Surry Hills institution is equal parts wine bar (and where you’ll find natural Australian wine), a pub, and an open-air terrace with great tunes and dancing (depending on the night’s vibe).

More of a cocktail person? Head to Ramblin Rascal Tavern on Elizabeth Street. Well-loved by locals and visitors alike, this innovative cocktail bar is set in a cool basement with speakeasy-style leather booths and exposed brick walls.

Whiskey fans will particularly love The Baxter Inn. Nestled into Clarence St, this sophisticated bar features an impressive selection of rare and top-shelf whiskies. While the vibe certainly feels more like a dive bar than your typical whiskey bar, the bartenders and booze collection certainly span much further than tap beer and house wine.

One of the easiest ways to wrap your mind around a new culture is through its cafes and