If you’re staying in a Sydney city hotel, the hotel would probably have at least one restaurant or coffee shop on the premises.
But if you decide you wanted to go elsewhere for dinner, check with a Sydney dining guide and don't make the mistake of going up and down Sydney's main streets of Elizabeth or George which run from around Central Station to the Quay. You'll hardly find any decent restaurant along these city streets. I mean, you could. But looking for one (like looking for that proverbial needle in a haystack) simply isn't worth the trouble.
Where to look
Unless you know exactly where you're going (you have an up-to-date Sydney dining guide, or someone might have recommended a good Sydney restaurant, and you know where it is), your best bet is to head directly for Sydney's restaurant districts or streets.
Around Circular Quay
There's a series of restaurants all along East Circular Quay from near the wharves to the approach to Sydney Opera House. As well, there are dining venues at the Opera House but you'd probably only think of dining there if attending an opera, concert or theatre event.
On West Circular Quay, you'll find a number of restaurants, including Doyles, at the International Overseas Passenger Terminal. There are also restaurants between the terminal and the Park Hyatt.
Restaurants in the Circular Quay train terminal building by the ferry wharves are more designed for fast turnover than for leisurely dining. One restaurant at the Quay, City Extra, is open all hours.
The Rocks district
It's best to have a dining guide when looking for appropriate restaurants in the Rocks district. Some of these restaurants may be hiding in hotels. One of Sydney's more distinguished restaurants for fine dining is Rockpool on George St at the Rocks.
Darling Harbour
There are a number of restaurants at Harbourside on the western side of Darling Harbour, and also near the Imax cinema.
Chinatown
If you fancy Chinese food, head towards the southern end of the city centre. There's a host of restaurants in the Dixon St area (near the Sydney Entertainment Centre and in the Haymarket district). Some of the restaurants here are open until late.
Within walking distance
If you’re in the city centre, you would be within walking distance of a number of these Sydney restaurants including those at Chinatown, at the Rocks, and around Circular Quay.
If dining out at night, remember that some Sydney restaurants close early, so plan accordingly.
Check with your hotel for restaurant locations and how to get there.
Variety of restaurant fare
There's a wide variety of dining fare in Sydney, and for those so inclined, yes, there’s also McDonald’s, Hungry Jacks, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell...
Wherever you’re staying, particularly if in the outer suburbs, find out where the restaurants are and their opening times as many dining venues close early.
If you’re in an apartment or house with kitchen facilities, you may want to do a bit of cooking yourself.
