Melbourne might get the brunt of Australia’s food cred, but these days, Sydney’s food scene is soaring through the stratosphere. There’s an eatery for every mood and craving - and in our case, for every type of business meet-up under the sun. Whether you’re looking for a hip lunch spot, a low-key bar, or a buttoned-up classic, here’s where to take your clients for an experience they’ll love.
For a creative twist on high-end cuisine: Automata
Perhaps unsurprisingly considering its name, Automata’s aesthetic is kind of like a combination between an auto body shop and a luxury hotel. (Yep, apparently that’s a real look that actually works!) The restaurant’s ever changing five-course tasting menu is the creation of Chef Clayton Wells, who cut his teeth at some of the world’s finest restaurants.
Automata Restaurant, 5 Kensington St, Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
For a spacious, airy place to chat: Ester
If you want the space and time to really kick back and talk shop, Ester’s minimalist dining room is a great option. Ester’s top-notch menu options are all about quality and substance over frills, and your taste buds will definitely notice.
Ester, 46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale NSW 2008, Australia
For a whimsical take on fine dining: Barangaroo House
With an executive chef hailing from world-class Copenhagen eatery Noma, Barangaroo House has much to offer. Here, you’ll fest on rich meat, seafood, and fresh local ingredients. The modern dining room is full of cheerful plants and Instagrammable decor.
Barangaroo House, 35 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo NSW 2000, Australia
For an ideal taste of local fare: Fred’s
The menu at Fred’s focuses on fantastic local Australian ingredients, with dishes crafted by renowned chef Danielle Alvarez. You’ll find a blend of classic cooking techniques and modern twists, all of which nod to Australia’s abundance of natural flavors. The best part? The dining room centers around an open kitchen, so you can watch the magic happen right before your eyes as your meal is prepared.
Fred’s, 380 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021, Australia
For a tried-and-true classic: Bennelong
This treasured favorite in the Sydney Opera House is at the top of its game after a 2015 rejuvenation. When you dine at Bennelong, gazing up at the interior of the Opera House’s fine architecture, your surroundings are as much a part of the experience as the food itself. That said, the food is plenty to write home about, with excellent creations by chef Peter Gilmore.
Bennelong, Bennelong Point Sydney Opera House, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
For a meeting with a Gen Z colleague: The Grounds Of Alexandria
The delightfully hip Grounds Of Alexandria is one of the most Instagrammed places in Sydney. You’ll find a sustainable garden, coffee, and an intriguing market to explore before your meal. The place gets crowded, but the food (and youthful design aesthetics) are well worth it.
The Grounds Of Alexandria, 7a/2 Huntley St, Alexandria NSW 2015, Australia
For dim sum cravings: Mr. Wong
This stunning eatery offers an epic selection of the two most important things in life: drinks and dim sum. You’ll find some of the best dumplings in Sydney here, and the ‘30s Shanghai aesthetic will make for a fantastic atmosphere.
Mr. Wong, 3 Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
For views that stretch on forever: Icebergs Dining Room & Bar
This iconic restaurant stretches over Bondi Beach and the famous Icebergs swimming pool. With an Australian-Italian menu, great cocktails, and epic people watching, it’s got everything you need for an idyllic meal.
Icebergs Dining Room And Bar, 1 Notts Ave, Bondi Beach NSW 2026, Australia
