Best Fine Dining Restaurants in Sydney

If you are a discerning food lover seeking the highest level of culinary refinement or merely someone wanting to celebrate a special occasion, only the best fine-dining restaurants in Sydney will do. Thankfully, throughout the city, several establishments showcase culinary artistry and innovation in their menus while offering world-class service and incredible dining settings. The list of Sydney restaurants below represents the creme de la creme of the city's dining scene. These are places where you need to book well in advance to secure yourself a table and put on your best clothes when eating at them. But they are also the places that provide the highest echelon of gastronomic experiences. So, you should really take the time to enjoy every second of your time at them.

Quay

Quay is not just one of the best fine dining restaurants in Sydney; it is also one of the most decorated and accomplished venues in the whole of Australia. Situated within a prime location in Sydney Harbour, this superb restaurant has been awarded Three Hats for an incredible 21 years in a row!

Presenting superb views of the Harbour Bridge, the venue is a refined and elegant space that reflects Executive Chef Peter Gilmore's nature-inspired cuisine. It offers a sensational four-, six- or eight-course menu that features a progression of rare and beautiful ingredients that emphasise texture, flavour and harmony. To complement the food, it also has a superb wine list curated by sommelier Wilem Powell.

  • Overseas Passenger Terminal, Upper Level Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW 2000
  • https://www.quay.com.au

Bennelong

Bennelong is an exceptional restaurant located within the iconic Sydney Opera House. It is renowned for offering a gastronomic experience that flawlessly blends exquisite dining with architectural splendour.

The kitchen is commanded by renowned chef Peter Gilmore, who has crafted a menu that pays tribute to Australian ingredients but with a modern twist. You can enjoy this food at two distinct dining options - the elegant Bennelong Dining Room and the more casual Bennelong Bar. Diners are treated to panoramic views of the Sydney Harbour, which creates a mesmerising backdrop for an unforgettable culinary journey. 

With its innovative cuisine, sophisticated ambience and unbeatable location, Bennelong offers one of Sydney's best upscale dining experiences.

  • Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
  • https://www.bennelong.com.au

Aria

Aria Restaurant is an exceptional fine-dining establishment owned by celebrity Chef Matt Moran, and Bruce Solomon that offers modern Australian haute cuisine.

Set within a space filled with classy artwork and elegant glass walls that showcase stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, the venue's food menus present the creative vision of Executive Chef Thomas Gorringe.

Whether you indulge in the tasting menu, four-course, week-day lunch or pre-theatre offerings, they will serve outstanding dishes crafted from the freshest seasonal produce. 

Their world-class wine list - featuring labels sourced from all the best wine-growing regions worldwide - and excellent service add to the dining experience. 

  • 1 Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000
  • https://www.ariasydney.com.au

Sixpenny

Sixpenny is a highly acclaimed restaurant in Stanmore that offers inventive and meticulously crafted, upscale dining experiences. 

Owned by chef Daniel Puskas - who jointly set it up when he was just 30 years old -  the restaurant has gained recognition for its commitment to showcasing the finest seasonal Australian produce. It offers an intimate and unassuming setting, which allows the focus to remain on the artistry of its degustation menus.

With a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainability and a dedication to pushing culinary boundaries, Sixpenny has earned its status as one of Sydney's most sought-after dining destinations. The restaurant offers consistently exceptional food - which is so popular among diners that reservations are essential.

  • Address: 83 Percival Rd, Stanmore NSW 2048
  • https://www.sixpenny.com.au

Ester

Over in the trendy neighbourhood of Chippendale, Ester is a sophisticated restaurant best known for its innovative culinary creations.

It is owned and run by chef Mat Lindsay, who is passionate about wood-fired cooking. Since opening more than a decade ago, the venue has become a trendsetter in Sydney's dining scene because its outstanding menus feature dishes perfectly prepared using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Diners can choose between an a la carte or set menu. Alternatively, they can pick the mud crab or suckling pig feast options. All of which will send your taste buds into overdrive.

Ester's atmosphere is inviting yet minimalist - reflecting its focus on simplicity and quality. It also has a commitment to communal dining and an extensive wine list to round out a wonderful culinary experience.

  • 46-52 Meagher St, Chippendale NSW 2008
  • https://ester-restaurant.com.au