Sydney’s 10 Best Fine Dining Restaurants in the CBD

Sydney’s dining scene is more exciting than ever, with a mix of world-class chefs, inventive menus, and breathtaking locations. Whether you’re after a multi-course tasting experience or a sleek spot for a power lunch, these 10 restaurants define the best of Sydney’s CBD.

1. Quay – Modern Australian

📍 Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks
A Sydney institution, Quay continues to set the benchmark for fine dining with its innovative tasting menus, stunning harbour views, and Peter Gilmore’s signature creations, such as the White Coral dessert.

2. Oncore by Clare Smyth – Contemporary European

📍 Crown Sydney, Barangaroo
The first Australian outpost of three-Michelin-starred Clare Smyth, Oncore delivers refined yet approachable dishes with an emphasis on sustainability, all set against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.

3. Bennelong – Modern Australian

📍 Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay
Housed in the iconic Opera House, Bennelong offers a sophisticated take on Australian cuisine. Its menu highlights the best local produce in an architecturally stunning setting.

4. Hubert – French Bistro

📍 15 Bligh Street, Sydney
A subterranean slice of Paris in the heart of the CBD, Hubert charms with candlelit tables, a lively jazz soundtrack, and decadent French classics like duck à l’orange and steak frites.

5. Aria – Modern Australian

📍 1 Macquarie Street, Circular Quay
With Matt Moran at the helm, Aria is a longtime favourite for pre-theatre dining and special occasions, serving elegant, seasonal dishes with spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge.

6. A’Mare – Italian Fine Dining

📍 Crown Sydney, Barangaroo
For old-school Italian glamour, A’Mare is the place to be. Expect tableside mozzarella service, hand-rolled pasta, and a lavish setting reminiscent of an Italian grand hotel.

7. Firedoor – Woodfire Cooking

📍 23-33 Mary Street, Surry Hills (CBD fringe)
Chef and owner Lennox Hastie’s Firedoor is a must-visit for meat lovers. Here, everything—yes, everything—is cooked over fire, from aged rib-eye steaks to ember-roasted vegetables.

8. Rockpool Bar & Grill – Classic Steakhouse

📍 66 Hunter Street, Sydney
A high-end power dining staple, Rockpool serves some of the country’s best dry-aged steaks, impeccable seafood, and a deep wine list curated for connoisseurs.

9. Kiln – Contemporary Australian

📍 Ace Hotel, 47 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney
One of Sydney’s most talked-about newer openings, Kiln blends inventive Aussie flavours with a relaxed rooftop atmosphere. It offers standout dishes like fermented potato bread and charcoal-roasted seafood.

10. Shell House Dining Room & Terrace – European-Inspired Brasserie

📍 37 Margaret Street, Sydney
With its grand heritage interiors and sun-drenched rooftop terrace, Shell House offers a polished yet lively dining experience. The menu is focused on fresh, coastal flavours.