Sydney fashion & lifestyle: Urban Walkabout - your guide to fashion, design, food and lifestyle in Sydney

Food & Drink

Après Restaurant

Après Restaurant

Intimate martini bar and restaurant

Originally home to the famed Roosevelt Hotel, Apres Restaurant brings together plush, old-school grandeur with contemporary French dining. Sip on a martini at the bar or get comfortable in a booth for a languid degustation.

Address
32 Orwell Street, Potts Point.
Phone
9331 1889

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Australian Youth Hotel

Australian Youth Hotel

Modern gastro pub, restaurant and bar

This classic pub is one of the finest in Sydney. The main bar has an impeccable old English charm while further inside the restaurant serves exceptional gastro-pub meals - but not at gastro prices. Out the back is a beer garden complete with a majestic Centenary fig tree and upstairs, available for functions, is the Nude Bar - a decadent cocktail and wine bar that tips its hat to its colourful past as a brothel via the arty nudes that adorn its walls.

Address
63 Bay Street, Glebe
Phone
9692 0414

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Baja Cantina

Baja Cantina

Mexican restaurant & beer garden

Chef Robert Comings shows off his extensive expertise in Californian Mexican cuisine at this authentic Latin American eatery. Enjoy sumptuous, spicy dishes and freshly-made sangria inside or in their buzzing outdoor beer garden.

Address
43-45 Glebe Point Road, Glebe
Phone
9571 1199

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Balcony Bar

Balcony Bar

Sophisticated wine & tapas bar

Spread over three floors, this sumptuous but relaxed bar is the latest addition in the to-do list of the urban Sydney crowd. Enjoy a cocktail and tapas or soak up some live acoustic music on Thursday nights.

Address
46 Erskine Street, Sydney
Phone
9299 8821

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Bambini Wine Room and Bar

Bambini Wine Room and Bar

Chic wine bar in the heart of CBD

This intimate, exquisite bar adorned with chandeliers, flagstone floors, burnished mirrors and French cafe-style tables is top in the Sydney must-do list. Indulge in shallow fried calamari, fine wines and other delectable concoctions.

Address
185 Elizabeth Street.
Phone
9283 7089

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Berta

Berta

Recently opened restaurant

Secretly tucked into a laneway, this moodily lit industrial space has an Italian culinary focus, boutique wines and a devotion to the art of sharing. Sibling of Surry Hills enoteca vini, Berta promises a wild contemporary experience.

Address
17-19 Alberta St, Sydney
Phone
9264 6133

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Bird Cow Fish

Bird Cow Fish

Bistro Espresso Cheese

Bistro Espresso Cheese - a smart, inviting restaurant and espresso bar where beautiful produce and great wine is thoughtfully chosen and presented with subtle flair and a passion for the good things in life.

Address
4&5/500 Crown Street.
Phone
9380 4090

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Bistro Bruno

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

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Blancharu

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

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Blue Ginger

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

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Bodega Tapas Bar

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

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Brown Sugar

Brown Sugar

Cafe/Restaurant - 'A local institution'

Chilled cafe by day, buzzing candlelit bistro by night, Brown Sugar impresses with versatile ambiance and mouth-watering tastes. Start the day with iconic Bondi breakfasts or come later for contemporary Australian cuisine.

Address
106 Curlewis St, Bondi Beach
Phone
9130 1566

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Cafe Mint

Cafe Mint

North African & Middle-eastern fusion

A smart, stylish and intimate space where you'll discover Modern Mediterranean cuisine, including locally adored specials such as sweet breakfast couscous and a delectable spicy lamb with hummus.

Address
579 Crown Street, Surry Hills.
Phone
02 9319 0848

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Cafe Viva

Cafe Viva

American style diner

With a unique take on the American style diner, Cafe Viva serves all day breakfast, hot dogs, burritos, sundaes and some of Balmain's best homemade burgers. A cosy spot day or night.

Address
4/189 Darling Street, Balmain
Phone
9810 9028

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Different Drummer Bar

Different Drummer Bar

Cocktail, tapas & wine bar

In the midst of Glebe's thriving restaurant district, the Different Drummer is a cosmopolitan cocktail bar with a warm heart. Compliment your wine or cocktail with Spanish inspired tapas created using the freshest locally sourced ingredients. Why not spice up your night with a great small bar atmosphere, groovy tunes and service with a wink.

Address
185 Glebe Point Road, Glebe
Phone
9552 3406

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Dolcetta

Dolcetta

Café providore

Italian specials reminiscent of home cooking complete with BYO option and festive Maitre D.' Dolcetta is a providore of succulent and memorable eating.

Address
Shop 4/165 Victoria Street, Potts Point
Phone
9331 5899

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Efendy Restaurant

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

more info >

Finolas Restaurant

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

more info >

Forbes and Burton

Forbes and Burton

Elegant bistro cafe

Smart cafe by day and elegant dinner venue by night, this place delivers on every level. Wonderful, prize winning food, fantastic coffee, great service and wine in a simple yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Address
252 Forbes Street, Darlinghurst.
Phone
02 9356 8788

more info >

Green Park

Green Park

Welcoming Sydney institution

A Darlinghurst institution with a bohemian vibe attracting a mix of gay and straight clientele. Green Park is a local favourite for lounging, playing pool, meeting friends or kicking off a great night on the town.

Address
360 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst.
Phone
9380 5311

more info >

Hudson Meats

Hudson Meats

Premium butcher and deli

The "paddock to plate" philosophy is king at this premium butcher and gourmet delicatessen. Sourcing regional produce and often liaising directly with farmers, the Hudson team help fresh, local ingredients find their way to Sydney tables.

Address
1/410 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Phone
9332 4454

more info >

Jackies Cafe

Jackies Cafe

Cafe, restaurant and bar

Now open for dinner Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, this buzzing Paddington cafe and sushi bar is adored by many a local and celebrity. Bustle your way into the sunny courtyard and settle in for a great brew and amongst a cool Sydney crowd or bunker down for a relaxed meal and a chat.

Address
1c Glenmore Road (cnr Oxford Street), Paddington.
Phone
9380 9818

more info >

Kingsleys Steak & Crabhouse

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

more info >

La Grande Bouffe

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

more info >

La Sala

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

more info >

Le pelican

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

more info >

Lotus

Lotus

Creative, sexy, cozy bar and bistro

This sophisticated, award-winning bistro and cocktail bar has a well-deserved reputation for outstanding service. Dan Hong's menu features Asian influences with fresh Mediterranean flavours.

Address
22 Challis Avenue, Potts Point
Phone
02 9326 9000

more info >

Macleay St Bistro

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

more info >

Mad Cow

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

more info >

Manta Restaurant & Bar

Manta Restaurant & Bar

Waterfront seafood and beef restaurant

Take in sandy woods, sea greens and the expansive teal-toned mural while overlooking the marina. Watch the sun set from the breezy waterfront lounge bar or dine alfresco on Manta's fresh, zesty seafood.

Address
6 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo
Phone
9332 3822

more info >

Miss Chu

Miss Chu

Vietnamese hawker style Café

Known as the queen of rice paper rolls, Miss Chu brings her bold take on Vietnamese hawker favourites to this hole in the wall canteen come cafe. Order from quirkily designed menus or take advantage of the catering service.

Address
Cnr Bourke & William Streets, Woolloomooloo
Phone
8356 9988

more info >

Nick's Bar & Grill

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

more info >

No. 9

No. 9

Bustling, cool cafe

An Über cool addition to the thriving coffee scene of Potts Point, No. 9 offers refined European fair in a contemporary style deliciously complimented by classic and retro breakfast and lunch menus.

Address
9 Ward Avenue, Potts Point.
Phone
T: 9331 1399

more info >

Otto Ristorante

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

more info >

Petrol

Petrol

Brunch, lunch, evenings, tapas, wine bar

Petrol caters for all occasions - breakfast, lunch, tapas and dinner. With organic and gluten free food and a chocolate banana bread to die for, enjoy alfresco dining amongst beautiful decor for pure culinary indulgence.

Address
9 Springfield Avenue, Potts Point
Phone
9331 5048

more info >

Pocket Bar

Pocket Bar

Quirky small bar & cocktail lounge

Cosy retro and vintage furniture, walls laden with pop art murals and a host of quirky trinkets are on display at this bar and cocktail lounge serving drinks, snacks and crepes while adding a touch of cool to its surrounds

Address
13 Burton Street, Darlinghurst
Phone
9380 7002

more info >

Remy & Lee's

Remy & Lee's

Corner cafe with memorable chemistry

Fixed gear bikes, eclectic furnishings and exhibition cubicles meet with Black Star pastries and The Little Marionette coffee at this couple-run corner cafe brimming with warmth and personality. Perfect for breakfast and lunch.

Address
547 Bourke Street, Surry Hills.
Phone
0404 384 014

more info >

Rosebud Restaurant & Bar

Rosebud Restaurant & Bar

Café by day, restaurant by night

Housed in one of the area's more iconic buildings and at the entrance to the busy Darling Street strip, Rosebud's fusion of world cuisine is becoming a most popular culinary fare. Open breakfast, lunch & dinner.

Address
654 Darling Street, Rozelle
Phone
9555 8999

more info >

Ruby Rabbit

Ruby Rabbit

Bar, club & dance space

Just as Alice did, you can slip into a wonderland of regal proportions and indulge in a playground adorned with modern art, exquisite furnishings, silk-tented ceilings and cool, cutting edge luxury.

Address
231 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst.
Phone
02 9326 0044

more info >

Sackville

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

more info >

Safira Verde Cafe

Safira Verde Cafe

Viennese-style Cafe

A cosy inner-city nook with a tempting array of fresh cakes, sourdough breads, free-range eggs, gourmet salads & sandwiches, fresh vegies and gluten free options. This Viennese style Cafe; is a relaxed and healthy alternative.

Address
63 Crown Street, Woolloomooloo
Phone
9332 4277

more info >

Saigon Saigon

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

more info >

Small Bar

Small Bar

Intimate bar

An early leader of the hole-in-the-wall bar movement currently reshaping Sydney’s
socials scene, Small Bar’s wooden floorboards echo the kitchen percussion of home cooked food. A prime spot for a dinner party with no washing up.

Address
48 Erskine Street, Sydney
Phone
9279 0782

more info >

Spanish Tapas

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

more info >

The Essential Ingredient

The Essential Ingredient

Quality foods, cookware, books, classes

The kitchen can feed the soul when prepped with the finest ingredients, utensils, culinary books and advice. This house of foodie passion for aficionados and amateurs alike gathers rare, foreign and local produce under one roof.

Address
731-735 Darling Street, Rozelle
Phone
9555 8300

more info >

The Piano Room

The Piano Room

Classic cocktail lounge

With a medley of live entertainment, cocktail hour unfolds at a smooth sultry pace. Boasting a chic bar selection and elegant tasting menu, The Piano Room pays homage to New York's classic cocktail lounge tradition.

Address
Cnr Kings Cross & Darlinghurst Rds, Kings Cross
Phone
9356 8238

more info >

The Sardine Room

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

more info >

The Tea Room QVB

The Tea Room QVB

Sydney's most decadent afternoon tea

Indulge in a magnificent restaurant offering a modern a la carte menu and decadent high tea options while surrounded by Florence Broadhurst wallpaper, crystal wall sconces and majestic modern Victorian architecture.

Address
L3, North End, QVB, 455 George Street.
Phone
9283 7279

more info >

The Victoria Room

The Victoria Room

Bohemian elegance, restaurant & bar

Reminiscent of a 1920s Shanghai bar with its grand ceiling fans, 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

more info >

Toko

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

more info >

Tokonoma

Tokonoma

Tokonoma - your new favourite venue

Tokonoma's focus on the style of Japanese 'izakaya' dining fuels its sophisticated and sharply designed space with an irresistible allure. Be it intimate social dining or corporate functions, your senses will be indulged on all levels

Address
490 Crown Street, Surry Hills
Phone
9357 6100

more info >

Velero

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

more info >

Velluto

Velluto

Champagne and wine lounge

Tucked away on the corner of Fitzroy Gardens and Baroda Street, this bar is a luxurious retreat from the boisterous Kings Cross scene. Enjoy over 20 champagnes and an extensive list of Australian wines in style.

Address
50 Macleay Street (entrance cnr Baroda St and Fitzroy Gardens), Potts Point
Phone
9357 1100

more info >

Vini

Vini

Italian wine bar and restaurant

This stylish yet casual restaurant specialises in Italian wine with over 25 available by the glass. With a new bar set in a shipping container, Vini serves simple quality Italian food.

Address
3/ 118 Devonshire Street (via Holt Street), Surry Hills.
Phone
02 9698 5131

more info >