Circular Quay is a vibrant hub in Sydney, offering stunning views of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House. It's also home to a diverse range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Whether you're looking for a quick coffee before catching a ferry or a memorable meal with a view, Circular Quay has something to suit every taste and occasion.

Iconic Dining Experiences

For a truly special occasion, consider Quay or ARIA Sydney. Both are acclaimed fine dining restaurants offering modern Australian cuisine with breathtaking harbour views. Quay, helmed by Executive Chef Peter Gilmore, is known for its creative and adventurous tasting menus, while ARIA Sydney, in a prime East Circular Quay location, provides a classy and spacious setting with maximum views.

Casual and Convenient Options

If you're after something more relaxed, City Extra 24 Hour Restaurant is a Circular Quay institution. As the name suggests, it's always open and offers a diverse menu of modern Australian fare, from full meals to cafe-sized snacks. It's a great option for any time of day or night.

Eastbank Cafe Bar Pizzeria is another excellent choice for a casual meal with a view. Located on the harbour's edge, it offers a contemporary fusion of traditional Italian dishes and modern Australian cuisine. With an extended outdoor seating area, it's perfect for taking in the magnificent outlook while enjoying a delicious meal.

Cafe Sydney provides a quintessential Sydney dining experience from its rooftop location at Customs House. With breathtaking views and a thoughtfully curated menu showcasing the finest seasonal produce, it's a sophisticated spot for lunch, dinner, or even just a cocktail in the lounge.

Other Popular Choices

Circular Quay and the surrounding Rocks area also boast other popular dining spots like Saké Restaurant and Bar, which blends traditional Japanese flavours with a chic, modern setting, and The Fortune of War, Sydney's oldest pub offering classic pub fare and a lively atmosphere. Squire's Landing, perched on the waterfront, is a unique brewhouse experience with an on-site microbrewery and stunning views.

Variety of Cuisines

Beyond the well-known establishments, Circular Quay offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Italian (Salt Meats Cheese), Japanese (Green Shiso Omakase), French (Four Frogs Creperie), and Thai (Gang Thai Sydney Place). There are also numerous cafes and dessert spots like Miss Coconut Sydney Place and Gelato Messina Circular Quay.

With so many options available, finding a restaurant or cafe at Circular Quay is an enjoyable part of the Sydney experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, the stunning location and diverse culinary scene make it a must-visit dining destination.

Places to Eat at The Rocks Sydney

The Rocks, a historic precinct nestled beside Sydney Harbour, offers a charming backdrop for a diverse culinary adventure. With its cobblestone streets and heritage-listed buildings, this area boasts an array of dining options, from traditional pubs to contemporary restaurants, catering to all tastes and occasions.

Traditional Pub Fare and Casual Dining

For a quintessential Sydney experience, explore the pubs in The Rocks. The Fortune of War stands out as Sydney's oldest pub, offering classic pub fare and a lively atmosphere. It's an ideal spot to soak in the history while enjoying a casual meal. Many pubs in the area provide a relaxed setting for lunch or dinner, often with outdoor seating perfect for people-watching.

Waterfront Dining with a View

Given its prime location on Sydney Harbour, The Rocks features several establishments that offer stunning views alongside their menus. While not directly within The Rocks, nearby Circular Quay, easily accessible from The Rocks, provides options like:

Quay and ARIA Sydney: These fine dining restaurants offer modern Australian cuisine with breathtaking harbour views.

Eastbank Cafe Bar Pizzeria: Located on the harbour's edge, it provides a contemporary fusion of traditional Italian dishes and modern Australian cuisine, with an extended outdoor seating area.

Cafe Sydney: From its rooftop location at Customs House, it offers harbour views and a menu showcasing seasonal produce.

Diverse Cuisines

The Rocks and its immediate vicinity are a melting pot of global flavours. You can find:

Japanese: Consider Green Shiso Omakase for Japanese dining. Saké Restaurant and Bar also blends traditional Japanese flavours with a modern setting.

Other cuisines: You might also discover French (Four Frogs Creperie) and Thai (Gang Thai Sydney Place) options.

Specialty Dining Experiences

Beyond everyday dining, The Rocks and the surrounding areas also host unique culinary events and establishments:

Sailmaker Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Sydney: This restaurant, located near Darling Harbour, offers premium seafood and festive classics, especially during holiday periods like Christmas Eve, Christmas Day lunch, and Christmas dinner. Chef Sven Ullrich and his culinary team curate live food stations with seasonal ingredients.

Zephyr Sky Bar at Hyatt Regency Sydney: Perched above Darling Harbour, Zephyr offers a sophisticated experience with a premium beverage package, roaming canapés, and a grand grazing table, particularly for events like New Year's Eve.

Jackalberry Bar & Restaurant: This vibrant destination in Sydney's CBD offers a globally inspired menu and expertly crafted cocktails.

When visiting The Rocks, take the time to explore the various laneways and hidden corners, as many delightful cafes and restaurants are tucked away, waiting to be discovered. Whether you're craving a quick bite, a casual meal, or an elegant dining experience with a view, The Rocks provides an unforgettable culinary journey.