Destinations Australia The Best Places to Eat and Drink in Sydney From Sri Lankan to Italian and more, these are seven of the best restaurants in Sydney. By Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Updated on February 21, 2023 Trending Videos Close this video player Photo: Nikki To/Courtesy of 10 WIlliam St Sydney has something for every traveler, from its beaches to The Rocks, the historic neighborhood where museums and tours describe the area’s Aboriginal heritage and modern growth. Art, adventure, national parks, miles of bike paths, and the stunning Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge give visitors many ways to enjoy the city. When it’s time to relax over a meal and a cocktail or glass of wine, Sydney will thrill once again. From Sri Lankan to Italian and more, Sydney’s restaurants present compelling and delicious dishes. We have a few suggestions for you, thanks to input from Aussie celebrity chef Monty Koludrovic, who oversees popular West Hollywood spots EP & LP, Strings of Life, and more. Josh Niland/Courtesy of Saint Peter Saint Peter focuses on seafood, exactingly butchered and creatively handled, sometimes using a dry-aging process that enhances the flavors just as with fine beef. Chef Josh Niland serves the best quality fish available daily, including lesser-known varieties and fish parts that are delicious but often overlooked. Fratelli Paradiso, named for brothers Giovanni and Enrico, is the place for traditional Italian dishes like lasagna and risotto, with a popular tiramisu or affogato for dessert. Friendly service and a lively ambiance add to the experience. 10 William Street, also from the Brothers Paradiso, is a wine bar with an expansive list along with rustic Italian bar food from chef Trisha Greentree. Lankan Filling Station serves up chef O Tama Carey’s amazing hoppers, sambals, and curries, along with local beers and natural wines in the small, lively Sri Lankan spot. (Hoppers are bowl-shaped pancakes often filled with an egg, a popular Sri Lankan street food.) Courtesy of Spice I Am Spice I Am serves Thai food by chef Sujet Saenkham, considered to be Sydney’s most talented Thai chef. Chef Sujet uses handmade spices and pastes in dishes like crispy pork belly and roast duck massaman curry. Regulars bring their own beer from the nearby pub to ease the spicy burn at this compact, popular restaurant. Courtesy of Ester Ester, helmed by chef Mat Lindsay, makes the most of wood-fired small plates in his small bustling dining room where his staff and adventurous wine list add to the fun. Dishes include potato bread with dashi jelly and fresh roe, king prawns, and oysters served several ways. Sweet Belem Cake Boutique will make you happy if you save room for dessert, especially when you sample one of their Portuguese custard tarts made with free-range eggs. Don’t miss this Little Portugal sweet spot led by chef-owner Jose Silva.