Best Restaurants in Circular Quay for Locals and Visitors (2025)

If you want dinner with a view that actually delivers on the plate, Circular Quay is your move. On one side you’ve got the Opera House, on the other the Harbour Bridge. In between? Sits a line-up of venues that cover everything from tasting menus to quick bowls of ramen before a show. In fact, some of the best restaurants in Sydney are in Circular Quay.

You can splash out on fine dining, split a steak that weighs more than your arm, or grab tacos and a margarita and let the harbour do the heavy lifting. This guide covers the best restaurants in Circular Quay, including where to go for date night, where to feed the crew, and where to squeeze in a quick bite that still gives you bang for your buck.

Best Restaurants in Circular Quay Overview

• Best Circular Quay restaurant overall: Quay Restaurant
• For value for money: IPPUDO
• For groups: Mr Wong
• For date night: BISTECCA
• For fine dining: Oborozuki

What Are the Best Restaurants in Circular Quay?

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, Sat also open 12.00pm-1pm
• Phone: (02) 9251 5600

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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: Mon-Thurs 12pm-12am, Fri-Sun 11am-12am
• Phone: (02) 9250 6000

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

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-Sat 11am-12am
• Phone: (02) 8587 5900

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

16. 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

17. RAMEN 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 in Circular Quay and surrounds 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.

Considerations Before You Book

• Peak times. Friday and Saturday nights fill fast, especially during Vivid and school holidays. Book early or aim for lunch.
• Budget. Menus range from $20 ramen to $450 degustations. Decide what you’re in the mood (and wallet) for before you get swept up by the view.
• Timing. Pre-show crowds hit 5:30–7pm. For a slower meal, book later or go for a long lunch.
• Seats with a view. Window spots are limited. Ask when you book and arrive early to improve your odds.
• Transport. Trains, ferries, and light rail all stop at Circular Quay. If you drive, sort parking first or you’ll be circling

What Else is There to Do in Circular Quay?

Spending the weekend around Circular, The Rocks and Sydney and wondering what else there is to do? We’ve got you covered with these guides

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Best Circular Quay Restaurant FAQs