18 Best Circular Quay Restaurants
When you want to dine on Sydney Harbour and eat some of the city's best food, pay a visit to these venues on our list of the best Circular Quay restaurants. Whether you're twisting and turning through the nearby suburb of The Rocks, trying to find a cool bar, or just hanging out on the steps of the Harbour Bridge, the journey through some of the finest restaurants in the city starts here. Without further ado, let's check out our favourite spots to eat in Circular Quay, as chosen by our team of foodies.
Best Circular Quay Restaurants at a Glance
Highlights from our list include the following options:
Best Circular Quay restaurant overall : Quay Restaurant
: Quay Restaurant For value for money : IPPUDO
: IPPUDO For groups : Mr Wong
: Mr Wong For date night : BISTECCA
: BISTECCA For fine dining: Oborozuki
Now we've rounded up our favourites, let's check out the complete list.
Quay Restaurant | Image: Supplied / Quay Restaurant
1. Quay Restaurant
Located in the heart of The Rocks and with a spectacular view of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House, Quay Restaurant's executive chef Peter Gilmore reinvigorated cooking and dining experiences in Australia when he opened this very restaurant. The ocean-decorated floor couples with Gilmore's adoration for nature to help find inspiration for his dishes, which can be sampled as part of a six-course set menu (approx. $365 per person) to challenge any in the harbour city.
There's a focus on seasonality with fish, pork, and Wagyu typically dominating the rotating menu. Expect David Blackmore Wagyu, Mud crab dumplings, Smoked confit of pig jowl, and a Raw pearl oyster to start.
Located in: Overseas Passenger Terminal
Address: Upper Level Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Wed-Sun 5:30-8:30pm
Phone: (02) 9251 5600
Bennelong | Image: Supplied
2. Bennelong
Bennelong put Sydney's dining scene on the world stage when it hit its stride in the 1980s with its famous roast trolley. Today, the dining fair has transformed thanks to Gilmore's Fink restaurant group, but the location remains just as special in the shell of the Opera House. You're spoiled for choice here between having a casual drink/quick bite before a show or getting immersed in a culinary experience.
The restaurant offers a choice of an À La Carte or three-course set menu ($210) with both leaning heavily towards seafood and Aussie favourites such as Lamb and Duck. Favourite menu items of ours include the XO pipis with smoked bacon, crispy eggplant, shaved squid, striped peanuts, and aioli alongside the Lamb short loin with green olives, squash, nasturtium agretti, capers, and an outstanding herb purée.
Located in: Sydney Opera House
Address: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Thurs 5:30–8:45 pm, Fri-Sun 12–2 pm, 5:30–8:45 pm
Phone: (02) 9240 8000
Aria | Image: Supplied
3. ARIA
With two hats and the background of the harbour, ARIA owners Matt Moran and Bruce Solomon have created one of those Circular Quay restaurants you have to see to believe. Prioritising Australian produce revitalises the Aussie spirit of every guest, while executive chef Tom Gorringe crafts a seasonal menu that is designed for the enjoyment of the whole table. Flavours are delicate, precise and perfectly balanced, presenting an authentic fine-dining experience, with favourite menu items of ours including the K'gari spanner crab, Aquuna Murray cod, and David Blackmore 9+ sirloin.
Address: 1 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Wed 5–10:30 pm, Thur-Sat 12-11:30pm, Sun 12-10pm
Phone: (02) 9240 2255
Oborozuki | Image: Supplied
4. Oborozuki
One of the best new restaurants in Sydney, Oborozuki opened its 120-seat restaurant in late 2022 and is home to one of our favourite Japanese fine-dining fusion kaiseki and teppanyaki menus in the city. The restaurant regularly plays host to exclusive events hosted by world-renowned chefs who specialise in Japanese cuisine, think celebrity sushi masters such as Takayoshi Watanabe and Hirotoshi Ogawa.
In terms of cuisine, the two options are either Teppanyaki (minus the food throwing) or our personal favourite, the Kaiseki (similar to a degustation). Menus change regularly, but some of our favourite dishes on the Kaiseki menu include the Karasumi; Tasmanian Lobster, Tomato Sauce, Zucchini, Rosemary, Thyme, Dill, and Balsamic Sauce; King Crab with Somen Noodles; A5 Ozaki Wagyu Ribeye Miso-Wasabi Sauce, Rocket Leaf, Garlic, Rose Salt and Black Pepper. Being a fine-dining affair, the degustation prices are high at $450 AUD per person.
Address: Level 3/71 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Tues-Thurs 5:30-10 pm, Fri-Sat 12-10 pm
Phone: 0426 111 999
BISTECCA | Image: Supplied
5. BISTECCA
One of our favourite steak restaurants in Sydney is also cut as one of the best near Circular Quay. Of course, it's hard enough to go past the 50-seat location that feels like it's underneath Sydney CBD, but the Bistecca alla Fiorentina on offer here is the best in the city. Measured and served in grams, the meat is presented before you to showcase the outstanding marbling of the Riverine sourced meat before it's cooked fireside over ironbark and charcoal to a perfect medium rare. A range of sides are available to complement the meal, favourites of ours include the cavolo nero with confit garlic cream, followed by the Roast potatoes tonnato.
Address: 3 Dalley St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 12 pm–12 am
Phone: (02) 8067 0450
Mr. Wong | Image: Supplied
6. Mr. Wong
One of the most famous restaurants near Circular Quay, you'll struggle to find a foodie in Sydney who hasn't dined at Mr. Wong and/ or tried their classic fried ice cream. A part of the Merivale company, Mr. Wong offers modern Cantonese-style food that has us coming back time and time again. We also love their BBQ Duck, while the stir-fried garlic prawns are also a big hit. You'd be remiss for not ordering a few dumplings, and the Scallop and prawn shumai, King crab and prawn, and Wild mushroom dumplings are worth their weight in gold. Those looking to turn things up a notch for a special occasion should opt for the Live Seafood menu with both mud crab and rock lobster on offer at market price.
Located in: Establishment Hotel
Address: 3 Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 12–3 pm, 5:30–10:30 pm
Phone: (02) 9114 7317
Cafe Sydney | Image: Supplied
7. Cafe Sydney
Cafe Sydney has been a pillar of excellence for more than 20 years, and understandably so. Often hailed as one of the best restaurants in Circular Quay, let alone the world, its impressive menu is filled with delicate meats and seafood, truly encapsulating the essence of Sydney, but we can't discount their breathtaking views of the harbour. Located on the rooftop of Customs House, Cafe Sydney is iconic and quintessentially Australian.
Located in: Customs House
Address: Level 5 Customs House, 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sat 12–10:30 pm, Sun 12-5pm
Phone: (02) 9251 8683
Bar Patrón | Image: Supplied
8. Bar Patrón
With salsa, tacos and tequila, Bar Patrón has it all and more! It became one of our favourite Circular Quay establishments again when it reopened its doors in 2022 after a three-year hiatus, and we're pleased to say the restaurant is back serving the same authentic Mexican cuisine for Sydneysiders. A part of the famous Sydney restaurant collective, Rockpool Dining Group and Patrón brand, this restaurant and bar strives for excellence with every dish.
Their dining experience has that Mexican flair where each fresh ingredient pays tribute to traditional and contemporary recipes, starting with a seafood-driven entree menu with Scallop Ceviche, Tuna Ensalada and Octopus Huarache. House-pressed tortillas become hand-held tacos that are plump with light, flavour-packed fillings, including Soft Shell Crab, Chicken with Black Mole and Carnitas Eggplant, all paired with house-made sauces and salsas. Main dishes include Tajima Wagyu Rib Eye with Epazote Chimichurri and Aged Mango Mole; Lamb Shoulder Birria; and Lobster al Patrón, served with a creamy tequila sauce.
Address: 2 Phillip St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Mon 12-9pm, Tues-Thur 12-10pm, Fri-Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-9pm
Phone: (02) 9259 5624
Mode Kitchen & Bar | Image: Supplied
9. Mode Kitchen & Bar
Mode Kitchen & Bar defines modern Australian dining, offering classics with a modern twist. Making a name for itself as one of Circular Key's best restaurants by perfectly balancing business and casual diners with fine dining and a bistro. Located in the atrium of the Four Seasons hotel, this venue has delicious, mind-blowing flavours and the friendliest staff.
You'll get transported back in time with their warm lighting, leather seats and mahogany tables. If you want something rich, you can go for their signature 1kg T-Bone, or if you want something light, their Duck Breast that's dry-aged and roasted, with radicchio, pomegranate and soubise is a sure-fire winner. Everything you taste at Mode Kitchen and Bar is locally produced, their hand-crafted stoneware plates are made in Melbourne, and their signature cocktails plus beautiful desserts will make you want to never leave.
Located in: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
Address: Ground Floor, 199 George St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sat 12–4 pm, 5:30–10 pm, Sun 12-10pm
Phone: (02) 9250 3160
Saké Restaurant | Image: Supplied
10. Saké Restaurant & Bar
Saké restaurant is probably the best place to find contemporary Japanese cuisine in The Rocks. Each dish is made from fresh ingredients with a unique twist, and guests can enjoy an innovative culinary experience as the team combines modern Japanese flavours with classic ones in a quest to delight their tastebuds. Sake's classic menu has everything you need, from their Himachi Kingfish with coriander-infused ponzu or their raspberry jelly goma. Fall in love with each bite and drink all the saké you want with their long beverage list.
Address: 12 Argyle St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Thur 12-9pm, Fri-Sat 12-10pm
Phone: (02) 9259 5656
Pony Dining The Rocks | Image: Supplied
11. Pony Dining The Rocks
Pony Dining at The Rocks gives you locally sourced produce and beautiful meat and seafood dishes that you can down with Australian wine or their signature cocktails. Executive chef Neil Nolan's passion for cooking is translated into his dishes, where every meal is cooked to perfection. The brick walls and earthy tones set the scene as you enjoy small plates of delicious food. They even offer brunch, so that you can enjoy a fine-dining experience at any time.
Located in: The Rocks Centre
Address: Cnr Argyle Street, Kendall Ln, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Thur 5:30-9:30 pm, Fri-Sat 12–3 pm, 5:30–10 pm, Sun 12–3 pm, 5:30–9:30 pm
Phone: (02) 9252 7797
Altitude Restaurant | Image: Supplied
12. Altitude
Located in the Shangri-La Hotel, this Circular Quay restaurant has arguably the best view of the city. 'Dine in the sky' is their motto, and with a glass jewel private box, you really will – it 'floats' 36 levels above the water, giving you views you've never seen before. Serving contemporary Australian cuisine, Altitude offers every meal from breakfast to dinner to high tea, paired with an excellent wine list. You can try their signature dishes, like the butter-poached WA marron with herbs, with a sliced fennel salad or their pana cotta. If you are after one of the best restaurants in Circular Quay and aren't opposed to a view, this recently two-hatted restaurant is for you.
Located in: Shangri-La Sydney
Address: 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: 12–2 pm, 5:30–10 pm
Phone: (02) 9250 6000
Kid Kyoto | Image: Supplied
13. Kid Kyoto
Kid Kyoto is non-traditional in the best way, they serve up dishes that have native Australian ingredients paired with Japanese flavours that will have your tastebuds soaring. Downing this with one of their Japanese whiskeys or signature cocktails will make your night even better. This modern take on Japanese flavours is what brings Rhys Watson-Lamb's cooking to the next level.
Address: 17-19 Bridge Street, Bridge Ln, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Tues-Sat 12-10pm
Phone: (02) 9241 1991
Opera Bar | Image: Supplied
14. Opera Bar
A list of the best Circular Quay restaurants would not be complete without Opera Bar. One of the most memorable restaurants, this is the perfect go-to before or after a show, or even just to enjoy the harbourside views. Opera Bar's signature Sangria jugs and their extensive wine and beer lists will make for the perfect night out. The venue offers a range of meals from cheese plates, sit-down dishes and desserts. Opera Bar is a must for any tourists or non-Sydneysiders, the instagrammable views will make your followers green with envy, while you enjoy the run and sea salt breezes. If you're looking for a restaurant during the annual Vivid festival, we recommend getting in early.
Located in: Sydney Opera House
Address: Sydney Opera House, Lower Concourse Level, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Sun-Thurs 11am-12am, Fri-Sat 11am-12:30am
Phone: (02) 8587 5900
6HEAD | Image: Supplied
15. 6HEAD Sydney
This premium waterfront steak restaurant is located in one of Australia's most picturesque locations, directly on Sydney Harbour. 6HEAD is one of those venues you simply can't go past. With a focus on local produce and meat sourced from respected local purveyors, the Circular Quay restaurant has emerged as a favourite in Harbour City. Throw in the hand-selected wine list and an assortment of spectacular desserts, and you've got a recipe for a good night out. We also hosted our 10-year party just next door, so you can bet that we like the scenery from this area.
Located in: Campbell's Stores
Address: Bay 10 & 11, Campbell's Stores, 7-27 Circular Quay W, The Rocks NSW 2000
Hours: Mon 5-9:30pm, Tues-Thurs 12-9:30pm, Fri-Sat 12-10:30pm, Sun 12-9pm
Phone: (02) 8629 8866
Whalebridge | Image: Supplied / Whalebridge
16. Whalebridge
If the idea of fresh seafood and views of Sydney's best landmarks sounds like a fair way to spend an afternoon, then head over to Whalebridge. This French bistro and bar is positioned in a prime location, right on Sydney Harbour, and is serving up the classics. Whether you're stopping by for an oyster, bread, and charcuterie, or you want to hang around for a larger plate, with pasta, seafood, and an outstanding Steak Frites made from Angus sirloin and served with Cafe de Paris and French fries.
Address: 8 & 10 Circular Quay W, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-11pm
Phone: (02) 9000 7709
The Meat & Wine Co Circular Quay | Image: Supplied
17. The Meat & Wine Co
The Meat & Wine Co Circular Quay is found in the InterContinental Hotel and it's one spot you don't want to miss. Wood, leather and a misty ambience don't begin to describe the experience you'll have here. It's self-proclaimed 'Afro-centric' dining, paired with being described as having 'Sydney's favourite steak', this Circular Quay restaurant gives you everything a meat-lover needs. Sophisticated presentation, flavour and an innovative wine list are what you can expect. The atmosphere is dark and mysterious, with affordable, high-quality food. What more could you want? Their extensive menu caters for a range of eaters, and they provide every cut of Australian-farmed steak.
Address: 2 O'Connell St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Sat 12-10pm, Sun 12-9:30pm
Phone: (02) 9264 9888
IPPUDO | Image: Supplied
18. IPPUDO Circular Quay
IPPUDO Circular Quay has become a staple of the Sydney food scene, and if you're looking for the best Ramen near Circular Quay, look no further. We'd go as far as to say this has become the global standard of Tonkotsu Ramen, and while we wouldn't go as far to say it's the best in the city, the combination of creamy tonkotsu broth, signature secret dashi, thin straight noodles, pork loin chashu, bean sprouts, flavoured black fungus, and spring onions just hits the spot. Of course, a few Pulled Pork Buns are a great alternative to ramen.
Address: Shop 3, Level 1/71/79 Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000
Hours: Mon-Wed 12–2:45 pm, 5–8:30 pm, Thur-Sun 12-8:30pm
Phone: (02) 9241 2436
How Man of Many Chose the Best Circular Quay Restaurants
Our list of the best restaurants near Circular Quay offers some of the most picturesque dining locations in Sydney. Home to the Sydney Opera House, these restaurants offer unspoilt views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Kirribilli, and are a melting pot for some of the best restaurants in Sydney. We've been lucky enough to sample food (and special menus) from all of the restaurants on this list, often thanks to our friends in the industry. And while our round-up includes some fine-dining options that'll blow you away in both flavours and price-point, we've also done our best to include some value-for-money options for date night.
Alternatives to Circular Quay Restaurants
Sometimes finding a great restaurant that suits your taste buds can be a challenge. That's why we suggest you also check out our list of the best restaurants in Barangaroo, which is just around the corner from Circular Quay. If you're looking for a drink, our team of drinks experts have rounded up the best bars in Circular Quay for a fun night out. And finally, if you're in the Circular Quay area for Vivid, we highly recommend checking out our guide on all the best events and displays during the festival of light.
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