Posted by With the growing pains that come when a city reaches 5 million residents, Sydneysiders might not always see the allure that their city holds, but for most visitors it’s impossible not to be seduced by the city’s spectacular harbour, dazzling skyline, seemingly endless sunshine, golden beaches and its enduring sparkle.
The Central Business District (CBD) is large, stretching all the way from Circular Quay to Central Station, with Darling Harbour on the western flank and the cosmopolitan suburbs of Darlinghurst and Surry Hills (with their fabulous dining precincts) to the east. Whilst much activity and attention revolves around the harbour, there’s plenty to explore on land, from the historic Rocks district to the buzzing new Quay Quarter with its laneways packed with restaurants and bars.
When it comes to eating, drinking and culture, Sydney was often seen as Melbourne’s poor cousin, but the last decade has brought a new-found confidence and vigour, with rooftop and small bars thriving (many of them are dotted along York and Clarence Streets), magnificent restaurants and a swag of events like Vivid now rounding out the calendar.
For the first time visitor, allow plenty of time to get to know Sydney – there’s so many traits to its personality, you certainly won’t be bored! And if you need to take a break from the city centre, Travis’ guides to the inner-city gems of Potts Point, Surry Hills and Redfern also have plenty to keep you entertained.
This Guide to Sydney City was updated in April 2025.
Just Coffee..
Workshop Espresso | 500 George St
A snug café in the heart of the city, the coffee is good enough to rate and the mid-morning lineup to place your order proves its popularity. Fortunately they are on the ball and well-staffed, so you won’t wait too long for your excellent caffeine fix.
Kingswood Coffee | World Square, 680 George St
The line of weary office workers patiently waiting for their morning hit is testament to the quality of the coffee here. They offer a small range of pastries and donuts, but the coffee is really what it’s all about at Kingswood. Kingswood Coffee
Gumption by Coffee Alchemy | Shop 11, The Strand Arcade, 412-414 George St
Tucked away in the Strand Arcade is this small café that takes its coffee quite seriously, so you can rely on getting a very good brew. Gumption by Coffee Alchemy
Edition Roasters | Darling Square | World Square | Mid City | Wynyard
With four suave looking outlets scattered around the CBD, Edition has your caffeine needs covered whatever part of town you are in, serving a fabulous single origin coffee using thoughtfully sourced beans. Edition Roasters
Lunch & Dinner…
Restaurant Hubert | 15 Bligh St
Sydney’s hippest French restaurant, an intriguing mix of traditional French bistro fare mixed with rockstar attitude and flair. The cavernous basement space offers several different rooms, it’s dark, decadent and quite a bit of fun… drop by for the drinks as much as the food. Restaurant Hubert
Bar Totti’s | 4/330 George St
Preceded by the insanely popular Bondi branch of Totti’s, this city outpost has the crowds pouring in for Mike Eggert’s unique take on Italian fare. The menu revolves around a tempting choice of antipasti, followed by a choice of eight or so more substantial snacks. Oh, and the wood fired bread is just scrumptious. It’s loud, a bit raucous, fun and just damn tasty. The lower level bar area at the back is cosier than the large dining room fronting George St. Bar Totti’s
Delta Rue | Level 5, 61-101 Phillip St
Delta Rue, in the revamped Sofitel Wentworth, offers far from typical hotel dining. Set in a light-filled, fifth-floor space, it blends old-school Hanoi charm with Sydney polish. The menu is broad, with zingy Vietnamese dishes executed with French finesse—think fresh herbs, bright flavours, and a fun tableside banh mi trolley. A deep wine list leans local and French, anchored by a dedicated champagne bar. It’s buzzy, stylish, and worth a visit, even if you’re not staying upstairs. The adjoining terrace is home to the Wentworth Bar, an ideal spot for an after lunch or dinner beverage. Delta Rue
The Gidley | Basement, 161 King St
You’ll need to know where you are going to find this elegant American style steakhouse, with very subtle signage and a locked door keeping out the riff-raff. Once ensconced in the dimly lit basement, you’ll be instantly embraced by the luxe décor and refined mood. The menu offers a variety of succulent steaks, plus brick chicken and grilled fish, with a long list of hearty and very tasty side dishes. It’s all designed to share, which is just as well as the portions follow the American theme – they are generous! The Gidley
Mr Wong | 3 Bridge Lane
Merivale’s eternally popular Cantonese fine diner buzzes from opening to close, and despite the hectic pace the smartly attired team dish up flawless service. The large space feels a lot smaller than it is, with dining areas cleverly segmented and a wonderfully rustic-meets-Old-Shanghai decor. The modern Cantonese fare is fabulous, from the dim sum through to the more substantial mains – the only challenge here is not to order too much. And the wine list borders on encyclopedic. Mr Wong
Cafe Sydney | Level 5, 31 Alfred St
Cafe Sydney, a 25-year icon of the Sydney dining scene, delivers quintessential Sydney dining with panoramic Circular Quay views; especially stunning from a front-row seat. Its expansive, split-level space, glass roof, and polished, subdued decor let the view shine. The seafood-focused menu, daily specials, and superb wine selection showcasing the best of Australian winemaking, draw a corporate lunch crowd and relaxed diners alike. Expect approachable yet refined dishes, showcasing local ingredients and culinary excellence. Service is polished yet unpretentious. Cafe Sydney
Ragazzi | 1/2-12 Angel Place
The Love Tilly Devine and Dear Saint Eloise crew hit the trifecta with this intimate pasta and wine bar that quickly captured the hearts of CBD workers. The small but punchy menu delivers simply wonderful housemade pastas, the food isn’t tricked up so what it lacks in looks, it makes up in the flavour department. It’s easy to wash this yummy food down with something from the 300+ bottles of wine on the list, with a solid selection of natural wines on offer. Ragazzi
Aalia | Ground Level, 25 Martin Place
Situated in the recently reimagined MLC Centre, Aalia is a more upmarket sister venue to Surry Hill’s popular Nour. The Middle Eastern and Northern African inspired fare from Chef Paul Farag is more elevated here, there’s creativity and elegance in every dish. The freshest of fresh raw dishes and delicate mezze are a wonderful place to start, before moving onto the more substantial seafood and meat, accompanied by an interesting selection of sides. The attention to detail in the food presentation and service shows that this is a serious dining experience. Aalia
King Clarence | 171 Clarence St
Named for its location on the corner of King & Clarence St’s, this gem showcases the power of collaboration between the established Bentley Group and a young gun chef. The understated décor ensures the food is the star, featuring a clash of Asian flavors and a seafood-heavy menu. Desserts are amazing concoctions, truly a highlight. A considered wine list with a sommelier on hand enhances the dining experience. This diner is a testament to innovative culinary mastery paired with refined taste. King Clarence
Ash St. Cellar | 1 Ash St
Part of the Ivy complex, Ash Street Cellars is an elegant European style bistro & wine bar with quite a Parisian vibe. It’s a place you’ll be equally at home sharing a bottle of vino from the extensive list, tucking into a bigger dish, or alternatively sharing some small snack plates whilst sipping a vino or two. The laneway location adds to the atmosphere and it’s an interesting people watching spot too. Ash St. Cellar
Alberto’s Lounge | 17-19 Alberta St
Another gem from the Swillhouse Group, the successful team behind Shady Pines Saloon and Hubert. The cosy space oozes warmth and conviviality, with swish service. The menu is short, offering classic Italian pastas and charcuterie (best shared) and a sharp but well-formed wine list. It’s one of the city’s essential hotspots, so arrive early (no bookings) or you’ll have to line up in the long entry corridor. Alberto’s Lounge
Happy Chef | Level 3, Dixon Food Centre, 402 Sussex St
Great value, very generous serves and super tasty noodle based dishes are the lure at this busy outlet in a rather unglamourous Chinatown food court. Happy Chef has an avid fan-base amongst Sydney’s most respected chefs, so you can be confident of a fabulous feed.
Drinks…
Old Mate’s Place | Level 4, 199 Clarence St
Discreetly located on the fourth floor of a mixed-use heritage building, you’d perhaps expect it to be sedate and quiet, but word has clearly gotten out that this is one stellar city bar. A clubby den-like room has been intricately decorated, the bookcases of old tomes, antiquities and of course booze add to the charm. Cocktails are the highlight, but there is something on their drinks list for everyone. If the weather is good, pop up one level to their tiny rooftop bar, it’s super cute. Old Mate’s Place
The Barber Shop | 89 York St
The Barber Shop seamlessly blends classic grooming with a speakeasy vibe. By day, it’s a vintage-style barbershop offering expert haircuts and shaves. By night, behind the secretive door it transforms into a lively bar with an extensive gin selection and craft cocktails. The ambiance is intimate and convivial, featuring leather chairs and retro decor. The knowledgeable staff and relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for both grooming and socializing. A hidden gem in Sydney’s vibrant bar scene, it’s also easy to slip out the back entrance into a courtyard that is home to neighbouring bars The Baxter Inn and The Duke of Clarence. The Barber Shop
The Baxter Inn | 156 Clarence St
Step into the moodily lit basement bar with exposed brick walls and it’s immediately obvious why this ranks as one of Sydney’s best bars – the décor, the mood, the general vibe, the long bar and its huge beverage selection, plus the top-notch service all come together perfectly. Ignore the accents around you, and you could easily be in one of New York or London’s best cocktail bars. The Baxter Inn
The Lobo | Basement, 209 Clarence St
The Lobo offers a slice of the Caribbean without the beaches! The quirky basement space is lavishly decorated, with deep leather booth seating ideal for a long night of imbibing rum-based cocktails – there’s 250 rums on the menu and the cocktail making features more than a few theatrics. If there’s not something on the menu you fancy, the engaged bar staff will whip up a concoction just for you, plus there’s Red Stripe beer from Jamaica for non cocktail aficionados. The Lobo
The Caterpillar Club | 92 Pitt St
The Caterpillar Club exudes an elusive type of magic, transforming the old Men’s Gallery strip club into a vibrant hotspot. Opening at 4pm, the line forms quickly, so arrive early. Inside, you’ll find the longest bar ever, an extensive vinyl collection behind the bar, and a bow-tied bar team shaking and stirring the night away. The basement setting is cosy with striking artworks, red leather booths, and loud music, making it clear that Sydney has gone underground in style. The Caterpillar Club
Bar Topa | The Ivy Complex, 4 Palings Lane
Merivale nails it again with this intimate tapas bar discreetly tucked inside the sprawling Ivy complex. The cosy size, the warm rustic décor, the authentic tapas and pintxos, plus the lovely selection of Spanish sherry all adds up to an authentic experience that could see you in the heart of Madrid. The Negroni’s on tap are the icing on the cake, whilst classic cocktails are served in small sizes but at prices that are more than reasonable. Bar Topa
Employees Only | 9a Barrack St
Modeled on the very successful and long-running NYC mother bar, they haven’t strayed too far from the formula here – this basement bar and diner is just obscure enough to feel like a guilty secret, the art-deco décor is comfortably swish, the cocktails are a highlight (thought the wine choices are rather limited), and the food (served till late) is comfort fare with just a dash of flair. The only downside here is the noise levels, when it’s busy it can get really loud. Employees Only
Stitch Bar | Basement, 61 York St
Push past the rickety doors and you’ll find a wide staircase leading to a dark & moody basement, decorated with old sewing machines (hence the name), with candle-light, cool tunes, American comfort food and easy cocktail list, a very long spirits list and a short but smart wine selection. Stitch Bar
Dean & Nancy on 22 | 2 Hunter St
On the top level of the A by Adina hotel, Dean & Nancy pays homage to the great hotel bars of the past, with mid-century design, soft lighting, leather booths, a grand piano and bold cocktails that are fit for both special occasions or just treating yourself after a long day in the office. The service is as elegant as the room, and the views of the surrounding skyscrapers are a fascinating outlook to boot. Dean & Nancy on 22
Aster Bar | Level 32, 117 Macquarie St
Located on Level 32 of the Intercontinental Hotel, Aster Bar offers stunning 270 degrees views that sweep from the Sydney Harbour Bridge to the Heads – from this lofty position, the bridge and the Opera House actually look quite small! The décor has both contemporary and mid-century elements; it’s restrained yet elegant, with marble, brass and comforting velvet chairs, and there’s a narrow outdoor terrace that offers fresh air. The menu offers fancy cocktails, premium wines (though the choice by the glass is limited) and of course abundant options for bubbles. Food comes in the way of elevated bar snacks along with a raw bar and charcuterie, and yes it’s pricey, but the location, style and refined service makes the value proposition more than acceptable. Aster Bar
Opera Bar | Sydney Opera House
Possibly the best located bar in Sydney, with the Opera House looming behind it and the Harbour Bridge just across the water, this is the scene of many ‘look where I’m having a drink right now’ brag photos. Whilst it does have indoor areas, the open-air section right by the harbour is the place to be on a sunny day. It’s very popular bar though, so it can get crowded. Opera Bar
Where to Stay…
The Sydney CBD is quite expansive so depending on your choice of accommodation, you might be up for a 30 minute or so walk to get to some of the city’s iconic attractions. If you are all about the views, stay by the harbour or near Circular Quay, but if it’s food and wine you want look more towards the heart of the CBD or on the edge of Surry Hills. Like any global city, Sydney has a broad selection of hotels to satisfy all tastes and budgets, however it’s only in the last five years that some boutique hotel gems have started to arrive on the scene and add some character.
QT Sydney | 49 Market St
One of the city’s most central hotels with Pitt St Mall and the QVB for neighbours, QT spans two heritage buildings that have been converted into a boutique hotel oozing character and style. With a buzzing bar and restaurant, the QT rooms are spacious, moody and offer a serene sanctuary from the pace of the city. QT Sydney
Little National Hotel Sydney | 26 Clarence St
The Little National’s rooms might be compact, but they are designed so well that in this instance, size doesn’t matter! With floor to ceiling windows, some of the comfiest beds in town and deluxe amenities like king pillows and lovely toiletries, this is a budget-luxe experience. The cosy rooftop bar and garden terrace are an added bonus, and the location just near Wynyard Station puts you close to most of Sydney’s attractions. Little National Hotel Sydney
A by Adina Sydney | 2 Hunter St
Situated mid-way between Circular Quay and Martin Place, the Adina group’s ‘diffusion brand’ A by Adina offers a very suave and stylish choice of studio, one and two bedroom apartments which are flooded with natural light and an idea base no matter what you’re in Sydney for. Chic bar, Dean & Nancy on 22, is located on the top floor. A by Adina Sydney
Park Hyatt Sydney | 7 Hickson Rd, The Rocks
When the budget doesn’t matter and you want to be in a dress circle position with uninterrupted views of the Sydney Opera House, the Park Hyatt is your only option. With the harbour virtually lapping at your balcony or terrace, their rooms are luxury embodied, though the decor is understandably understated as there is no point in competing with Sydney Harbour for attention. If residing in the same hotel as celebrities is your thing, you’ll be very much at home here. Park Hyatt Sydney
Paramount House Hotel | 80 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills
Located where the CBD meets the thriving inner-city enclave of Surry Hills, this creative boutique hotel is housed in the former headquarters of Paramount Picture Studios, a rustic heritage building that’s had a very modern extension added and is now also home to a fabulous cafe, rooftop health club and the intimate Golden Age Cinema. Offering a variety of room sizes (from the tiny ‘Nooks’ to the very chic ‘Lofts’), choose your room type not just based on the space you need but on the vibe you are after. Some rooms are a little more style than substance (not every aspect of the design is functional), but if lifestyle hotels are your preference, Paramount House will tick all your boxes. Popular wine bar, Poly, is also located in the building, and some of Surry Hills best restaurants are scattered around the surrounding streets. Paramount House Hotel
Ibis Sydney World Square | 382 – 384 Pitt St
This is a rather typical Ibis that offers the same good value you’ll find anywhere in the world, with compact but fresh looking rooms and limited amenities, but you are close to the heart of the city here and within an easy walk to Pitt St Mall, Chinatown, Hyde Park and Surry Hills’ buzzing dining precinct. Ibis Sydney World Square
Must Do…
Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout | Sydney Harbour Bridge – Access via Cumberland St stairs
If you don’t have the time, the adventurous streak or the dollars to do Bridge Climb, the Pylon Lookout (in the south east pylon) is a fab alternative. You do need a degree of fitness as access to the lookout is only via stairs, but once you reach the top you are rewarded with stunning views of the bridge itself, plus the harbour and city skyline. There is also an interesting series of displays inside the pylon detailing the history and construction of the bridge. Take the stairs from Cumberland St onto the Harbour Bridge pedestrian walkway to enter the lookout… and stop for a beer at one of the Rocks’ heritage pubs on your way back down. Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout
Sydney Harbour Foreshore Walk | Start at Circular Quay
A harbourside stroll commencing from Circular Quay will delight even the most weary of travellers. With the Sydney Opera House your first stop, meander through the Royal Botanical Gardens, then stop for some unforgettable photo opportunities at Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Continue past the popular Boy Charlton Pool to Woolloomooloo Bay, where you’ll probably be ready to stop for an afternoon aperitivo at one of the restaurants or bars along the historic Finger Wharf. The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Art Gallery of NSW | Art Gallery Rd
An imposing heritage building dating to the 1800’s is the entry point for the city’s largest art gallery, however modern extensions at the rear of the building have been tastefully added. Its collections and exhibitions cover all spectrum of the art world, so there is usually something on show to satisfy all tastes – one of the most popular annual exhibitions is the Archibald Prize for portraits. In 2022, the wonderful ‘Sydney Modern’ extension to the gallery was opened. Art Gallery of NSW
The Manly Ferry | Wharf 3, Circular Quay
A ride on Sydney’s iconic Manly Ferry is hands down the best (and cheapest) way to see the harbour. The relaxing 30 minute trip passes by the Sydney Harbour Bridge, the Sydney Opera House, and provides a stunning introduction to this glamorous harbour city. Alighting in Manly, take a short stroll along The Corso to the famous beach and get some sand between your toes. Manly Wharf has a number of stylish hangouts to grab a drink or bite to eat at before the return trip to Circular Quay, which provides yet more photo opportunities, including selfies on the bow of the ferry with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as your backdrop.
Featured Photo: ‘Two Icons’ – Bennelong Point
Travis. 
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