Sydney Foodie – Our Favorite Spots Sydney CBD and Hyde Park area

Flo MBT
Apr 14
3 min read

Updated: 7 days ago

Sydney has so much to offer - get ready foodies!

Sydney holds a special place in our hearts—we lived there for eight unforgettable years. During that time, we explored countless spots, always on the lookout for the best places to eat.

We’ve tested over 50 restaurants in Sydney, and here’s a review of just a few gems around Sydney CBD and the Hyde Park area:

For a Special Occasion
For a Beautiful Night with Friends
For a Romantic Night

For a Special Occasion

Bennelong ($$$) – The perfect setting for a memorable night. Nestled inside the iconic Sydney Opera House, Bennelong offers an experience as special as its location. The service was flawless, and the food was simply exquisite. The menu is a set course, allowing you to choose between two or three entrées, mains, and desserts.
Enjoying a Margarita at Bennelong
Aria ($$$) – Fine dining at its best. With stunning waterfront views and a menu showcasing the finest seasonal ingredients, Aria exudes timeless elegance. The service was impeccable, and every dish was crafted with precision. We had the pleasure
Cafe Sydney ($$$) – A must-visit for incredible harbour views and a top-notch dining experience. Perched above Circular Quay, this spot combines fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a vibrant atmosphere.
Beautiful dinner at Cafe Sydney

For a Beautiful Night with Friends

Bar Vincent ($$)

Small, cozy, and full of charm, Bar Vincent is an intimate spot with a relaxed yet refined atmosphere. The staff were incredibly helpful in guiding us through the menu, and the food was outstanding. A little bonus—since we’re French, we have to mention the bread. It was so good that we left with a baguette at the end of the night. Merci, Bar Vincent!

Our personal favorite: Asparagus Gribiche, Tagliolini Blue Swimmer Crab.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barvincentsydney/

Totti’s ($$)

A Sydney icon that’s hard to miss! Their wood-fired bread has become legendary among locals, and their fried dishes never disappoint. The only downside? If you’re seated in the first dining room, the tables are a little close together, making it a bit cozy—but still worth it.

Our personal favorite: wood-fired bread, baked tomino, Reginette crab tomato chilli & pangrattato!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tottis.merivale/?hl=en

Hubert Restaurant ($$)

What a place! Tucked away underground, Hubert transports you straight to France with its warm ambiance, dim lighting, and classic French décor. The food, service, and overall experience make it a must-visit.

Our personal favorite: Prime Beef Tartare, Souffle au Gruyere, Confit Duck Leg.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/restauranthubert/?hl=en

Zushi Barangaroo ($$)

A modern Japanese spot with a lively atmosphere and waterfront views. The outdoor terrace is a dream on a warm summer evening, making it a fantastic choice for a night out with friends.

Our personal favorite: tasting menu!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zushi_sydney/?hl=en

For a Romantic Night

Alberto’s Lounge ($$)

Tucked away in a back lane, away from the city’s hustle, this cozy and stylish Italian gem is ideal for a romantic night out. We loved everything—the décor, the food, the atmosphere, and the warm service.

Our personal favorite: Burrata, Asparagi, Linguine al nero.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/albertoslounge/?hl=en

Pellegrino 2000 ($$)

A chic trattoria that serves handmade pasta, fine wines, and a touch of old-school charm. Dining here felt just like being on a terrace in Europe on a warm summer night.

Our personal favorite: Bufala e fichi, Pappardelle al pomodoro.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pellegrinos2000/?hl=en

Mr. Wong ($$)

A sophisticated Cantonese restaurant with dim lighting, elegant decor, and some of the best dumplings in town. Though the restaurant is quite large, the lighting and layout make every table feel intimate, creating the perfect setting for a cozy dinner for two.

Our personal favorite: everything, you can't go wrong!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mr.wongsydney/?hl=en

Luna Lu ($$$)

A hidden gem in The Rocks with stunning harbour views and a modern Asian-inspired menu. Luna Lu offers a sophisticated dining experience, blending bold flavors with artistic presentation.