We Went Inside Paddy’s Markets Multi-Million-Dollar “Hay St Market” Facelift

Sydney will be celebrating the return of the iconic Paddy’s Markets following Hay St Market’s three-year multimillion-dollar facelift.

Set to redefine the city’s food and market culture, a whopping 3,000 square metres of its original setup has been transformed into a vibrant culinary hub with over 48 traders under one roof, dishing out an impressive 25 unique cuisines from around the globe. 

Opening its doors on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, Hay St Market promises a fresh twist on the city’s beloved institution, but how Sydneysiders receive this updated icon is yet to be decided. I mean, who can forget getting lost in the labyrinth that was the original Paddy’s Markets? No matter how many times you circled its array of stalls, you’d still get lost. However, that theme may continue with this new era of Paddy’s to get lost amongst.

First up on the menu are the culinary icons of this new venture. Renowned chef Luke Nguyen is set to light up taste buds with his family’s legendary Pho at Pho Chu Lap and his innovative dumplings at Luke Luk Dumplings. 

Second is a bit of bush tucker inspired by Australian Indigenous flavours from celebrated chef Mark Olive at Little Midden. Here, you’ll find plenty of seafood, a blend of native ingredients and plenty of unforgettable dishes.

But as we all remember, Paddy’s Markets was all about the market stalls and boy, have they delivered. 

“We’ve left no stone unturned in creating Hay St Market at Paddy’s–an affordable destination that Sydney can be proud of, where visitors can eat, drink, and shop. Inspired by some of the world’s best markets, we’ve built something extraordinary that harnesses Sydney’s cultural diversity, offers a twist on tradition, and taps into our collective love of food and beverage,” said Joseph Murray, Group CEO and Managing Director of Doltone Hospitality Group.

Speaking of beverages. Patrons will find two bars. Doesn’t sound like much, but when you realise one of them boasts over 180 canned drinks from around the world, you’ll be hard-pressed to try them all. That being said, there is some good news for late-night frolickers.

For the first time ever, late-night trading at Hay St Market means that this section of Paddy’s will be going off seven days a week, throughout its fully licensed 3,000 square metres, drink in hand. That is, until you make your way to Market City’s entertainment precinct with karaoke, arcades and even more late night shopping. 

“While our food offering is phenomenal, we are also excited to bring to life the speciality traders within Hay St Market at Paddy’s,” added Murray.

Served up alongside the smorgasbord of global flavours, visitors can check out all the speciality retail offerings ranging from a butcher, fishmonger, cheesemonger, deli, greengrocer, and florists, and, because we’re in the middle of the concrete jungle, there’s also an Urban Farm courtesy of Greenspace. But if you don’t feel like growing it yourself, you’ll still find the stalls, bargains, and fresh produce that Sydney has come to know and love at Paddy’s.

And to ensure the “millions of people” who visit Paddy’s Markets each and every year, can get the most out of this incredible new redevelopment, accessibility and sustainability have been key considerations, resulting in some rather affordable outcomes.

Dining options start from just $5, which means everyone from the budget-conscious to the indulgent can enjoy a full meal. The redevelopment is also a nod to sustainable practices, with recycled, upcycled, and restored materials throughout the market space.

With over 5 million visitors flocking to Paddy’s Markets each year, the launch of Hay St Market is expected to boost tourism, create more than 300 new jobs, and infuse the precinct with new energy.

Artisanal traders:

• Pho Chu Lap
• Luke Luk Dumplings
• Madam Banh Mi
• Little Midden
• Love Me Tender
• The Cheese Table
• The Signorelli Bros
• Nico’s Crypriot Chargrill
• Pie Guy by Broomfields
• The Fish Co
• Taco Nixtamel
• El Mercado Spanish Deli
• Mika’s Deli
• Pasta E Basta
• Pizzarina
• Biaggio Coffee and Cannoli
• GozleME
• Najla’s Lebanese Street Food
• Burger Box
• Gigi’s Hotdogs
• LP’s Quality Meets
• Thomas Hay Bakery
• Paddy’s Patisserie
• The Health Lab
• Hay St Roasters
• Cans & Crates
• Traders Bar
• Flowers by Agnes Harrington
• The Goods
• Urban Farm by Greenspace