Azuma

Traditional and innovative Japanese

Azuma has experienced much success over the nearly 13 years, largely due to chef Kimitaka’s passion and skill and to the loyal support Azuma receives from the people of Sydney. Azuma prides itself on the freshest and highest quality ingredients, innovative and traditional cuisine matched with attentive polite service.

Address

Chifley Plaza, Level 1

Phone

9222 9960

Becasse

Fine dining

The eight-course degustation with matching wine at Becasse, induces a kind of taste appreciation that will stay with you for life. The celebrated chef behind this premier dining space, Justin North, applies his innovative mentality to high quality ingredients and classic techniques.

Address

Level 5, Westfield Sydney, Cnr Pitt St Mall and Market St, Sydney

Phone

9264 7164

Berta

Restaurant & Bar

Secluded down a laneway, Berta has its roots in Italian cooking. Sibling to Surry Hills restaurant, Vini. The menu is seasonal and designed to share, accompanied by a comprehensive Italian wine list. Four-course sagra dinner every Wednesday.

Address

17-19 Alberta St, Sydney

Phone

9264 6133

Bistro Bruno

Modern Australian cuisine

Bistro Bruno has created a warm and comfortable ambience with four separate dining areas. The quality of service and attention to detail carries through to the delightfully interesting modern Australian / European cuisine.

Address

3 Beattie Street, Balmain

Phone

9810 7707

Blancharu

Japanese-French bistro

Award-winning chef Haru Inukai turns out superbly conceived and crafted Japanese-Franco cuisine in this relaxed fine dining bistro. Book ahead for the Japanese-style Bouillabaise or the chef's eight-course dinner special.

Address

Shop 1, 21 Elizabeth Bay Road, Elizabeth Bay

Phone

9360 3555

Bloodwood

Restaurant & Bar

This former Newtown conservatory assembles industrial and reclaimed materials, fresh seasonal foods and classic drinks in a refined fashion. Studded with odd stools and contemporary art, wafts of the polenta chips and garlic prawns will test your restrain if you've ordered just one dish. With an emphasis on sharing, taste much with many.

Address

416 King St, Newtown

Phone

9557 7699

Blue Ginger

Fresh, friendly Asian food

Popular with the locals, this slick, lively Chinese/Thai eatery is known for its melt-in-your-mouth salt and pepper squid, grilled barramundi with chilli and blackbean sauce and crisp san choy bao.

Address

241 Darling Street, Balmain

Phone

9818 4662

Boca Argentinean Grill

Argentinean grill

A culinary celebration of Argentina's obsession with meat. Boca's traditional parrilla (barbecue) menu is informed by owner Marcelo Berezowski's mother's recipes, while the interior is a lush and colourful excursion in Argentinean patriotism.

Address

310 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst

Phone

9332 3373

Bodega Tapas Bar

Tapas restaurant and bar

With its garishly painted dining room and mouth-watering dishes, Bodega has risen meteorically to become Sydney’s tapas institution. Our favourite: the sashimi Kingfish on garlic toast with cuttlefish ceviche and mojama- and share the Bodega family love.

Address

216 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills

Phone

9212 7766

Cara&Co Restaurant

Cara&Co Restaurant invites you to experience a style of cooking found nowhere else in Australia. The Cara&Co menu is enriched by Flemish fine dining with the aim to challenge your usual eating habits. Constantly striving to create new food pairings, the restaurant offers pure cooking that delivers heightened flavours with each dish.

Address

Westfield Sydney, Level 4

Phone

9226 9988

Chat Thai

Constant queues and loyal Thai patronage provide the best endorsement here. Authentic curries, salads, whole fish and marinated grilled meats range from mild to fiery and the dessert offerings are wide and mouthwatering. The supper menu kicks in at 10pm with bite-sized morsels like fish ball skewers and satay sticks available until 2am. A sweets order of par tuhng go is essential, deep-fried doughnut sticks made fresh and served with pandan custard.

Address

20 Campbell Street

Phone

9211 1808

Cipri italian

Modern Italian with a classic twist

The Cipri brothers Joe, Carmelo and Anthony offer a modern take on Italian traditions of fine food and warm hospitality. Informal yet sophisticated, experience all the style, flavours and personality of modern Italy.

Address

10 Elizabeth Street, Paddington

Phone

9331 3333

Dae Jang Kum Korean BBQ

The best part about eating at a Korean restaurant is 'banchan', a spread of complementary side dishes that include salad, pickled vegetables and kimchee, fermented Chinese cabbage with Korean spices. Chilli lovers will relish the 'teok bok ki', spicy rice cakes and the 'bo ssam', pork belly boiled in a master broth best served with lettuce, chilli, and radish kimchee. It's not all hot - there are grilled cheese oysters, 'jap chae' clear potato noodles and crunchy fried chicken. Fully licensed, BYO wine available with $5 corkage.

Address

35 Goulburn Street

Phone

9211 0890

Delicado Foods

A Taste Of Spain

Delicado Foods and Wines is a Spanish wine and tapas bar with adjoining bottle shop and delicatessen. Established in 2005, this cult 'foodies' destination mixes modern and traditional Spanish cuisine with superior wine knowledge, service and ambience.

Address

134 Blues Point Rd, McMahons Point

Phone

9955 9399

Delima Restaurant

Never tried Indonesian cuisine or would like to recall a fun filled journey in Bali? Delima offers a good start, set in tasteful surrounds with warm, wooden furnishings. The extensive menu has pictures of every dish, making ordering easy, but it's hard to go past Indonesian classics like chicken satay, 'Nasi Goreng Indonesia' or cubes of fall-apart-tender beef rendang. Fried chicken fans should seek out the ayam goreng kalasan, covered in a blanket of crispy spices for extra crunch.

Address

69/ 1 Dixon St, Haymarket

Phone

9267 7045

Din Tai Fung

At world renowned Din Tai Fung, the creation of each dumpling is an art form. Made with extreme discipline, the pastry and filling must be weighed to an exact size and thickness. Watch the dumpling artisans at work through the wallto- ceiling windows while you queue to be seated. Don't miss Din Tai Fung's signature soup dumplings, Xiao Long Bao. Our tip: dip the dumpling quickly in the sauce, place it in a spoon, pierce with a chopstick to release the hot soup before popping into your mouth.

Address

Shop 11.04, Level 1, World Square, 644 George Street

Phone

9264 6010

East Ocean Restaurant

With an emphasis on modern Cantonese cuisine, East Ocean is known for both its fresh seafood and quality yum cha. A recent shift to an a-la-carte yum cha menu sees your dumplings now cooked to-order and served piping hot from the kitchen to a quieter and less chaotic dining room. It also means no need to constantly look out for the elusive dessert trolley. For dinner try the lobster cooked in ginger and shallots, plucked live from the fish tanks, or the cold-served abalone. Peking duck and XO pipis are always a hit, or splurge on the King crab, divided and served three different ways.

Address

421-429 Sussex St, Haymarket

Phone

9212 4198

Efendy Restaurant

Turkish restaurant and meze bar

The taste of Turkey resides in a restored Victorian mansion, surrounded by oak trees as Chef Somer Sivrioglu blendstraditional and inventive Turkish cuisine to create an urban Istanbul concept that's steeped in Ottoman history

Address

79 Elliott Street, Balmain

Phone

9810 5466

Emperor's Garden

A specialist in Cantonese cuisine, the newly renovated Emperor's Garden Restaurant seats a total of 350 diners over two floors. Curry crab is the signature dish here, a thick spiced yellow curry with coconut cream and a secret blend of Chinese spices that includes lemongrass, curry powder and a touch of dried chilli. Soak up the rich sauce with steamed fluffy mantou buns. The two-course Peking duck is also popular, or try the pan-fried barramundi with pork mince and vermicelli. Otherwise join the yum cha hoards at lunchtime and enjoy your pick of dishes from the roaming trolleys of steamed and fried dumplings. Sit outside in Dixon Street mall and watch the world go by as you feast beneath the iconic red gates of Sydney's Chinatown.

Address

100 Hay St, Haymarket

Phone

9211 2135/9211 2268

Fat Buddha

Piping hot steamed prawn dumplings, freshly made rolls with tender BBQ pork, crispy salt and pepper squid and an all day yum cha menu awaits you within the stylish QVB. For a more decadent lunch or dinner, diners can indulge in dishes such as the "Legendary Eight Treasure" of double cooked whole duck stuffed with eight traditional ingredients such as lotus seed, pearl barley and salted duck egg, or the roasted pork ribs with vintage black vinegar.

Address

QVB, Level 2, North End

Phone

9264 9558

Finolas Restaurant

Family friendly and relaxed

Restaurant Owner, Finola Healy, shows her Irish roots in the traditional, hearty menu at Finola's. Great value and a welcoming atmosphere create a comfortable dining experience that's also available for functions.

Address

156 Darling Street, Balmain

Phone

9810 5100

Food Society

Modern Eastern European cuisine

This open kitchen-style restaurant is a welcome celebration of fine food mixed with old school hospitality and unparalleled service - a refreshingly down to earth addition to the Sydney circuit.

Address

91 Riley St, Darlinghurst

Phone

8090 3462

Forbes and Burton

Exquisite food day and night

A Darlo institution in knowable new hands showcases seasonal menus to match the time of day, the freshest possible ingredients, all day breakfasts on weekends, a transformable dining room and free wifi with your organic coffee.

Address

225 Forbes Street

Phone

9356 8788

Fratelli Fresh CBD

A buzz of energy radiates from the inconspicuously hidden Fratelli Fresh on Bridge St. The arch in the wall leads you down to this bustling underground haven, filled with the usual goodies offered by Fratelli, including rows of fresh produce, gourmet groceries and freshly baked breads. Upon entry, atmosphere is in all directions and unlike its relatives there is more to be excited about. The venue is home to the infamous Cafe Sopra, a Mozzarella bar for the cheese obsessed, Aperitivo Bar, Pizzeria.

Address

11 Bridge St

Phone

8298 2701

Galileo

Enjoy executive chef Masahiko Yomoda's exquisite fusion of traditional French cuisine with cutting edge Japanese inspiration, served in an atmosphere reminiscent of a grand Parisian salon.

Address

89-113 Kent St, Sydney

Phone

8248 5252

Glebe Point Diner

Humble, homely fare

Address

407 Glebe Pt Rd, Glebe

Phone

9660 2646

Golden Century

The wall of fish tanks at the entrance tells you how seriously Golden Century takes its seafood. Pipis in XO sauce are a must-have - mop up the spicy seafood sauce with batons of golden brown deep-fried bread. Live seafood from the tanks include parrot fish, abalone and prawns. Open until 4am every day, it's the perfect spot for a late night fix of salt and pepper squid or Chinese rice porridge congee.

Address

393-399 Sussex St, Sydney

Phone

9212 3901

I'm Angus Steak House

Waterfront steak house

Award winning waterfront steakhouse with an established reputation for premium quality steaks and a wide selection of Australian wines. Mouth watering range of cuts that chefs flame to perfection on an open grill, enthralling diners and passers by.

Address

The Promenade, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney.

Phone

9264 5822

King Street Wharf

Waterfront neighbourhood has been given over to sanctuary and sophistication at King St Wharf. This culinary and social playground of food and drink outlets nurtures a pulsing scene.

Address

The Promenade (via Lime St).

Phone

Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse

Stylish waterfront steak & seafood restaurant

Long Lunch on the Wharf is King here. Kingsleys takes surf & turf to a new level with succulent steaks, fresh salads & delicious crab.

Address

10/6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo

Phone

1300 546 475

Kobe Jones

Modern Japanese with a twist

Fusing Eastern spices with elegant simplicity, Kobe Jones is Japanese with a twist. Its stunning terrace overlooking Darling Harbour is the perfect setting to experience this luminous blend of chic Californian and modern Japanese cuisine.

Address

29 Lime Street.

Phone

9299 5290

Kushiyaki Bar & Grill

If you crave a traditional dark Japanese surrounding enclosed by timber walls to help set the scene of your dining event, you'll be in your element at Kushiyaki Bar & Grill, little sister to Azuma at Chifley Plaza. Serving Otsumami tapas Japanese style, matched with an exhaustive and somewhat rare range of Sake, 'Kushiyaki', or grilled skewers are the much loved specialty.

Address

Regent Place, GF, 501 George St

Phone

9267 7775

La Grande Bouffe

Authentic French dining

French bistro fare served up in a smart, contemporary dining room is the business of David and Meredith Poirier. Pop in for some French Toast for breakfast or settle in for the divine degustation for dinner.

Address

758 Darling Street, Rozelle

Phone

9818 4333

La Pesa Trattoria

Boutique Italian Restaurant

La Pesa's cuisine reflects the authentic and typical Milanese style of their sister Trattoria La Pesa in Milan - bringing the same passion for sourcing quality produce and creating beautiful dishes for you to enjoy

Address

174 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst

Phone

9331 4358

La Sala

Chic, modern Italian bistro

Chef Darren Simpson - from Aqua Luna Sydney and the River Cafe London - is at La Sala's helm. Creative, modern Italian cuisine with flavours as simple as they are bold.

Address

Ground Floor, 23 Foster Street, Surry Hills.

Phone

02 9281 3352

Le pelican

Sandstone-walled French bistro

Ensconced in a heritage building complete with sandstone wall and garden, this French inspired restaurant run by Jean-Francois Salet serves modern meals imbued with the soft, lighter style of Mediterranean cuisine.

Address

411 Bourke Street.

Phone

9380 2622

Linda's on King

Contemporary/Mod Oz

Linda's gained a warm reputation for modern Australian bistro classics during its 11-year residence at the back of Newtown Hotel. Despite the sophisticated look at Linda's 'new' address, locals know it's still simple, beautiful food on the plate.

Address

341 King St, Newtown

Phone

9550 6015

Macleay St Bistro

Foodies' delight

This local institution epitomises Sydney's finest cuisine in an intimate setting. Indulge in their blend of classic French and contemporary Australian dishes enhanced by an impressive list of local and imported wines and boutique beers.

Address

73a Macleay Street, Potts Point

Phone

9358 4891

Mad Cow

Flamboyant New York-style grill

This fabulously flamboyant New York-style grill draws upon fresh, quality produce and the flair of Head Chef, Chris Whitehead. With the finest steaks grilled to your specifications, Mad Cow deserves its loyal local following.

Address

330 George Street, ivy, Sydney

Phone

9240 3000

Maggies Restaurant

Authentic Austrian-German Kitchen

The crisp, crunchy schnitzels and rosti are a much loved local institution at this authentic Austrian-German café restaurant. Visit soon for a warm welcome. Takeaway also available

Address

7-9/50 Macleay Street (via Fitzroy Gdns)

Phone

9331 2226

Mamak

Authentic Malasian Cuisine

Check out the live roti-making show in the windows before ordering the flaky roti served with curry sauce. Other highlights include Malaysian style fried chicken, smoky chicken satay sticks and sweet roti tisu glazed with sugar.

Address

15 Goulburn Street

Phone

9211 1668

Marigold Restaurant

Every lunchtime, Marigold is bustling with yum cha trolleys and diners eating their way through a menu that spans over 100 varieties of dim sim. There's no shortage of choice and staff are happy to lift a bamboo steamer lid for you to take a look if you're not sure. A new night-time dim sum degustation is one way to beat the crowds - a set menu of 11 dishes is available Sundays through Thursdays during dinner.

Address

Lev 4 & 5, 683 George St, Sydney

Phone

9281 3388

Mizuya Japanese Restaurant & Karaoke

Booth seating and touch screen menus as well as 24 private dining rooms equipped with karaoke facility. Browse through the extensive drinks menu with 180 options including Japanese style cocktails and mocktails.

Address

Basement 614 George St, Sydney

Phone

9266 0866

Morena

Modern Latin American fine dining

Headed by Peruvian chef Alejandro Saravia, diners can expect haute cuisine Latin American style at Morena. Saravia deftly combines Peruvian flavours with fine Australian produce from blue eye cod to seared alpaca backstrap.

Address

15/425 Bourke St, Surry Hills

Phone

0405 902 896

Nick's Bar & Grill

Innovative cuisine and stunning views

The very best of casual alfresco dining with stunning waterfront vistas and Nick's infamous Seafood Platter for Two. Relax with a cocktail, beer or wine while the chefs prepare your meal on the chargrill.

Address

The Promenade- King Street Wharf.

Phone

02 9279 0122

Nick's Bondi Beach Pavilion

Innovative cuisine and stunning views

Combining the best fresh local seafood and quality chargrills, the innovative cuisine is complemented by an extensive range of premium Australian wines. Perfect for special occasions as Nicks provides an unforgettable experience.

Address

Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach Pavilion.

Phone

9365 4122

Nick's Seafood Restaurant

Innovative cuisine and stunning views

A restaurant capturing the essence of Sydney harbourside dining. With an emphasis on quality and freshness, Nick's is famous for succulent oysters, a wide array of fish, chargrilled seafood and seafood platters.

Address

The Promenade, Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney.

Phone

9264 1212

Nourishing Quarter

Nourishing soul food

A fusion of unique Latin American ingredients like Quinoa & Amaranth, Asian and Mediterranean soul foods, NQ has your wellbeing in mind. Avoid processed foods and observe gluten and dairy free options to sustain your day to day.

Address

315 Cleveland St, Redfern

Phone

8399 0888

Olivo on Blue

Italian & Modern Australian casual dining

For great Italian and Modern Australian casual dining, head to Olivo on Blue in Mcmahons Point village. From breakfast to dinner and all in-between, it's friendly ambience will hit the spot whatever you're after.

Address

133-135 Blues Point Rd, McMahons Point

Phone

9922 2064

Orto Trading Co.

Rustic, British-inspired dining

A British-inspired home to hearty meals with a warm design feel. Graze on truffle popcorn before tucking into rustic share plates like beef and Guinness stew, lamb belly or whole roasted artichoke

Address

38 Waterloo St, Surry Hills

Phone

9698 9427

Oscillate Wildly

Intimate fine dining restaurant

Oscillate Wildly is bold modern dining with a penchant for seasonality. An 8 course degustation will challenge as much as it delights with matching wines in intimate surrounds.

Address

275 Australia St, Newtown

Phone

9517 4700

Otto Ristorante

One hat Italian waterfront restaurant

"Vivi Bene Mangia Bene." 'To live well is to eat well' is the philosophy Otto Ristorante lives by. A friendly welcome, spectacular views and waterside location, with simple fi ne food makes Otto Ristorante a great place for any occasion. Chef Richard Ptacnik creates a constantly evolving menu embracing all that is local, seasonal and artisanal, with a spirit that is distinctly Italian.

Address

8/6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo

Phone

9368 7488

Phamish

Hanoi street market food

Lined with East-bound hipsters eager for traditional tastes amid modern surrounds, Phamish has earned a rep for plating up exceptional Vietnamese food. One of the city's most iconic culinary experiences.

Address

Republic 2 Courtyard, 248 Palmer St, Darlinghurst

Phone

9357 2688

Pitt Street Diner

Fresh produce, menu changes daily

Look onto the quaint slice of Pitt Street, through huge wooden bi-fold windows. This Diner's affordable innovations in modern breakky and lunch are fresh, inspired and changing with the season

Address

96 Pitt St, Redfern

Phone

8668 5936

Public Dining Room

Boutique cuisine, iconic location

Public Dining Room woos guests with its iconic Balmoral Beach waterfront views, contemporary Scandinavian design perspective and boutique a la carte or all day tapas style menus. It's flawlessly raw, natural and modern.

Address

2A The Esplanade, Balmoral

Phone

9968 4800

Red Chilli Szechuan Restaurant

Chilli fanatics will revel in the tongue-tingling menu that comes with a helpful chilli grading for heat gauge. The newer Harbour Street restaurant focuses on modern Sichuan dishes - the stir-fried mud crab with pork mince, preserved vegetables and dried chilli is a bestseller. At their original venue on 51 Dixon Street, expect more traditional dishes like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu.

Address

Shop 3, 51-53 Dixon Street (entry via Little Hay Street)

Phone

9211 8122

Red Chilli Szechuan Restaurant Harbour Plaza

Chilli fanatics will revel in the tongue-tingling menu that comes with a helpful chilli grading for heat gauge. The newer Harbour Street restaurant focuses on modern Sichuan dishes - the stir-fried mud crab with pork mince, preserved vegetables and dried chilli is a bestseller. At their original venue on 51 Dixon Street, expect more traditional dishes like kung pao chicken and mapo tofu.

Address

Shop 108/25-29 Dixon Street, Harbour Plaza (entry via Harbour St)

Phone

9211 8130

Restaurant Arras

A chic location of modern design, Arras encourages good conversation over a pick of fine dining delicacies. A diverse selection of freshly baked bread is ready to nibble on, when anticipating the following four course spread.

Address

204 Clarence St

Phone

9283 1922

Ripples Chowder Bay

The essence of relaxed Sydney dining

Metres from the pristine waters of Clifton Gardens Beach, Ripples at Chowder Bay encapsulates the essence of relaxed Sydney dining. Italian inspired food, excellent service and a wonderful alfresco ambience.

Address

Building 7, Deck C, Chowder Bay Road.

Phone

9960 3000

Rockpool

Seasonality is key at Neil Perry's two-hatted flagship restaurant. Experience evocative fine dining where local and international ingredients unite for sumptuous a la carte and tasting menus, with produce from spanner crab to quail

Address

107 George St

Phone

9252 1888

Rubyos

Modern Australian grazing restaurant

rubyos is a new concept in casual dining featuring a modern Australian grazing menu, which is designed to be shared. Fill a table with friends, entrée size dishes and voluptuous wines. Savor mixed morsels until full.

Address

18-20 King St, Newtown

Phone

9557 2669

Sackville

Warm and buzzing pub and bistro

With an excellent bistro, inviting courtyard and a hotchpotch crowd of regulars, the Sackville Hotel distils all the best things about Balmain pubs. Sink into a cosy corner with a schooner and steak, or sample a drop from the extensive wine list.

Address

599 Darling Street, Rozelle

Phone

9555 7555

Saigon Saigon

Vietnamese cuisine

Specialising in Vietnamese culinary delights, Saigon Saigon is also known for its uber-cool interior. Auspicious red walls are lined with traditional conical hats from the region and red silk lanterns hang delicately from the ceiling.

Address

97 Glebe Point Road, Glebe

Phone

9660 3888

Selah

Dining in style is kept simple at Selah with a menu of sustainable, seasonal and unprocessed ingredients. A place for any occasion, locals flock to Selah for an easygoing yet craftily prepared dish.

Address

12 Loftus St

Phone

9247 0097

Seoul Ria

Not sure whether to have Japanese or Korean? Seoul Ria offers both in this fusion restaurant that's bigger than you'd expect. Take the lift and you'll find yourself in a huge eatery flanked with modern wooden tables and chairs. Try the Jok Bal, cold slices of boiled pork leg served with kimchee or NakJi Duk Bbok Gi, octopus and chewy rice cake in a spicy sauce.

Address

Level 2, 605-609 George Street

Phone

9269 0222

Sepia

Known for their excellence in food, George Costi and Martin Benn have created Sepia's modern Australian menu. This award winning location offers both a la carte and degustation choices with a wine list to match. Rich with the highest quality local produce and inspired by Japan, each plate holds a delicacy resembling delightful edible art.

Address

201 Sussex St

Phone

9283 1990

Slide

Bar, restaurant, cabaret

Sydney's home of the acclaimed El Circo and nightly cabaret, this venue is housed in a 1920s Art Deco building moments from Hyde Park. Relish cocktails on the mezzanine, entertainment and fine dining packages or book a function

Address

41 Oxford St, Darlinghurst

Phone

8915 1899

Spanish Tapas

Authentic Spanish cuisine

Immerse yourself in the magnificent culture and cuisine of Spain right in the heart of Glebe. With rancho wagon wheel chandeliers, paintings reflecting the colour and movement of Spain, traditional terracotta Cazuela serving dishes and charming host and owner Javier you'll soon forget that you're actually in Sydney. Renowned for its range of tapas, authentic Spanish dishes including paella, and homemade sangria, this popular restaurant treats diners to flamenco shows on Friday and Saturday nights.

Address

26 Glebe Point Road, Glebe

Phone

9571 9005

Spice Temple

In an art deco basement den with oriental-style interiors, experience a food excursion through regional China's hot, sweet and sour. Exciting textures and finesse galore from this venture from culinary icon Neil Perry.

Address

10 Bligh St

Phone

8078 1888

Teppanyaki

Teppanyaki with a modern twist

Asian tradition fuses with chic sensibility at this superb modern Japanese restaurant. Black tasselled lamp shades, a long communal table, dim lighting and staff in kimono-inspired dresses- An experience not to be missed.

Address

ivy, Level 2, George Street, Sydney.

Phone

9240 3000

The Devonshire

Modern European style restaurant

Jeremy Bentley and Matthew Kemp ensure a Modern European experience here where diners are treated like old friends. Plates are adorned with scallops, squid, celeriac and pomegranate through to Devonshire tea creme brulee.

Address

204 Devonshire St, Surry Hills

Phone

9698 9427

The Eathouse Diner

Casual Diner with seasonal menu

A South American inspired colour scheme abounds at this diner offering a constantly changing seasonal menu served in generous portions. Try the Jamaican Jerk spiced spatchcock with savoury mango salad and rice and beans against the backdrop of bizarre vintage curios and old world gestures. Or take a Hokey Pokey Sundae by the tropical mural of a parrot in flight and sample a cocktail at this cosy, casual eat spot.

Address

306 Chalmers St, Redfern

Phone

8084 9479

The Eight Modern Chinese Restaurant

You're bound to be in luck at The Eight - considered a lucky number by the Chinese - a stylish modern restaurant with a comprehensive menu that runs from traditional to new-wave fusion Chinese dishes. By day it's yum cha central, with over 70 dishes to choose from. It's hard to resist the glamour of Peking duck carved at your table: a two-course affair that starts with crisp duck skin in soft pancakes and finishes with duck sang choy bow lettuce cups. Wok-seared beef with foie gras paste is one of their signature dishes, and live seafood from the tanks is always popular.

Address

Level 3, Market City

Phone

9282 9988

The Meeting Point

Try The Meeting Point's signature dish - collagen shabu shabu, made with all natural ingredients. Sample this and other dishes inspired by traditional Taiwanese cuisine with a dash of Szechuan style. The restaurant space evokes an old industrial feel, holds regular live music on weekends and has free Wi-Fi. Check their Facebook page to keep up to date.

Address

Shop R1.01B/9-13 Hay St, Haymarket

Phone

9280 3680

The Rocks Teppanyaki

Serving Traditional Japanese Teppanyaki Cuisine

Experience the traditional art and taste sensations of Japanese Teppanyaki. Located in a historic 1840s building, guests sit at one of six private, individual cooking tables ideal for entertaining friends and loved ones.

Address

176 Cumberland Street.

Phone

9250 6020

The Sardine Room

Modern Seafood Bistro - BYO

If you have an inclination to indulge in an authentic dining intimacy only found in European backstreets, The Sardine Room lures with its kitchen energy and adorably passionate owner, Angela Heracleous. Offering a seaside cabaret alongside a hand selected wine list, the menu is verbally delivered with enthusiasm to stimulate salivation. Rendezvous here with friends to experience when flamboyance meets fish.

Address

2/31 Challis Ave, Potts Point.

Phone

9357 7444

The Tea Room Gunners Barracks

A Sydney icon - lunch & high tea

Offering a contemporary modern Australian lunch menu and one of Sydney's most revered High Tea services, The Tea Room Gunners' Barracks is a Sydney icon. Nestled within bushland of Georges Head, complete with stunning harbour views, enjoy the opulence of this historic sandstone building and former military barracks. Traditional morning and afternoon tea is served daily, with an array of sweet cakes, savoury pastries, finger sandwiches, scones, Ronnefeldt teas and more.

Address

End of Suakin Drive, Georges Heights

Phone

8962 5900

The Victoria Room

Bohemian elegance, restaurant & bar

Reminiscent of a 1920s Shanghai bar with its antiques and ornate furniture, this bar and dining room is luxurious, inviting and spiced up with an air of mystery and the exotic.

Address

Level 1, 235 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst.

Phone

02 9357 4488

Tilbury Hotel

A little taste of good taste

Situated in the heart of Woolloomooloo, the Tilbury’s boasts a warm and comfortable environment with varnished wood, long leather banquettes, fireplaces, a generous sized deck and tranquil courtyard. The downstairs dining room offers a view out to the courtyard.

Address

12-18 Nicholson Street, Woolloomooloo

Phone

9368 1955

Toko

A contemporary style sushi bar

Toko Paddington prides itself on serving the freshest and best quality sushi and sashimi while offering many dishes with a contemporary twist in a sophisticated yet comfortable venue.

Address

362 Oxford Street, Paddington

Phone

9380 7001

Uighur Cuisine

If you like lamb, you'll love the kebabs at Uighur Cuisine, chunks of juicy lamb dusted with cumin and grilled on sword-like skewers. There are also stir-fries, handmade noodles, and dumplings available steamed and pan-fried. Halal food is also available.

Address

1/8 Dixon St, Haymarket

Phone

9267 8555

Umi Kaiten-Zushi

An impressively long fish tank provides a tranquil backdrop for patrons at this modern Japanese dining bar. Take a seat at the sushi train and pick and choose from the sushi plates - colour-coded by price - that trundle past on the circular conveyor belt. Salmon, tuna and prawn are joined by more unusual items like surf clam, sea urchin, turban shell and the Japanese favourite, natto femented soy beans. All fish is bought daily with specials dishes on offer depending on what has been sourced at the markets.

Address

Shop 1 LG Floor, Sydney Central, 477 Pitt Street (Cnr Hay & Parker Street)

Phone

9281 2006

Umi Sushi + Udon

The recently opened Umi Sushi + Udon offers both traditional and creative sushi options alongside a focus on Sanuki Udon, characterised by its firm, chewy texture using a special type of wheat traditionally grown in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. Enjoy a traditional Kyoto style decor as you venture through Umi Sushi + Udon's specialty Japanese cuisine.

Address

Shop 19, Darling Quarter, 1-25 Harbour Street

Phone

9283 2006

Universal Restaurant

Vibrant restaurant, global flavors

At Universal, Christine Manfield presents a brave new world of global flavours, offering an ever changing, a la carte menu of same size tasting dishes with optional wine matches.

Address

Republic 2 Courtyard Palmer Street, Darlinghurst

Phone

93809006

Velero

Spanish restaurant & tapas bar

Embark on a culinary tour of provincial Spain with cured meats, imported cheese, paella and tapas alongside Spanish sherry, beer or wine. With private dining also available, Velero offers a unique niche at the picturesque Woolloomooloo wharf.

Address

2/6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo

Phone

9356 2222

Vini

Italian Restaurant

Find simple yet elegant Italian food put on the menu board daily. Choose from over 25 Italian wines available by the glass. Vini holds weekly regional dinners on Tuesdays.

Address

3/ 118 Devonshire Street (via Holt Street), Surry Hills.

Phone

02 9698 5131

Westfield Restaurants

Some of the best of Australia's culinary community offer express and dine-in options at 'The Food Atrium' on Level Five, where Justin and Georgia North's Becasse and Quarter Twenty One Restaurants are also located. The premium restaurant precinct on Level Six is a worldly dining destination in its own right and home to Sydney favourites, Chat Thai, Sky Phoenix, David Tsirekas' 'fun park of Greek food' Xanthi, and Alessandro Pavoni's nostalgic Lombardian restaurant Spiedo Restaurant & Bar.

Address

Westfield Sydney, Level 5 & 6.

Phone

Woollahra Hotel

Chic bars and cellars, home to Bistro Moncur

From cocktails at the chic Front Bar, French-inspired fare at Bistro Moncur and boutique, rare and classic wines at the new Moncur Cellars, this handsome pub deserves its excellent reputation.

Address

116 Queen Street, Woollahra

Phone

02 9363 2782

Zilver Restaurant

The east-meets-west menu at Zilver is matched by decor that is modern and sleek with bronze pillars, timber screens and billowing silk canopies overhead. The menu runs the gamut of both contemporary and classic dishes, with a section dedicated to fusion dishes. Specialty dishes include the deep-fried live mud crab tossed in salted egg as well as the seafood curry with pumpkin. Those seeking something a little different should try the roasted pigeon or the wok-seared beef with wasabi sauce. The flaming pork ribs with mayonnaise is always an attentiongetting spectacle. At lunchtime, Zilver is buzzing with yum cha patrons keen on getting their dumpling fix. A dedicated bar area is perfect for drinks before or after dinner.

Address

Sydney Central Building (opposite Capitol Theatre) Level G, 477 Pitt Street (cnr Hay and Pitt Street)

Phone

9211 2232

ZoZo

If you've always fancied yourself as a chef, then Korean barbeque is the perfect chance for you to show off your cooking skills. At ZoZo you can order marinated meats and seafood and then take charge of the sizzling barbecue on the tabletop hotplate. Waitstaff are always happy to lend a hand if you're not sure what to do. Prefer to relax and let the kitchen do all the cooking? Then check out the crispy seafood pancake, fire chilli chicken and bibimbab: a traditional crispy rice dish served in a hot stone bowl. A special lunch menu is available Monday to Friday.

Address

Shop 10/26 Liverpool Street, World Square (under Monorail station)

Phone

9267 8040