Planning a trip to the harbour city? At over 38 million square metres in size, Sydney sees over 5.4 million visitors every year on the trail for the best to eat, drink and explore in the city.
There are currently over 4,500 restaurants in operation with 73.5% of these being independently-owned businesses, which means there’s plenty to try! From the harbourside eateries with breathtaking views to the trendy inner-city hotspots, Sydney’s dining scene is a true reflection of the city’s cultural and culinary diversity.
With so many venues to choose from, booking the perfect dining experience can be a daunting task. In this guide, we’ll share expert tips, insider recs, and practical advice on how to book the ideal restaurant while you’re in Sydney.
Before You Book: Define Your Dining Criteria
Before booking a restaurant in Sydney, it’s essential to define your dining criteria. Consider the following factors to ensure you find the perfect spot:
Cuisine: What type of cuisine are you in the mood for? Sydney offers an array of international options, from Italian and Chinese to Mexican and Indian.
Location: Are you looking for a restaurant with stunning views of the Sydney Opera House or a hidden gem in a quiet neighborhood?
Budget: What is your budget for the meal? Prices can vary significantly depending on the restaurant, location, and type of cuisine.
Dietary restrictions: Do you or a member of your party have specific dietary requirements or preferences?
Insider Tips for Booking the Perfect Restaurant in Sydney
Booking the perfect restaurant in Sydney requires some insider knowledge. Here are a few expert tips to help you make the most of your dining experience:
Tip #1 – Book in advance
Sydney’s top restaurants can be booked solid weeks or even months in advance. Plan ahead to avoid disappointment and consider reservations mandatory.
Tip #2 – Use online booking platforms: Websites like Now Book It, Urban List Gourmet Traveller, and Secondz are curated with recommendations to help you find the perfect spot and make reservations.
Tip #3 – Consider daytime dining: Lunch menus are often cheaper and offer better value than dinner menus. While a little less romantic, the beautiful natural Sydney sunlight will be good company.
Tip #4 – Look for special deals and promotions: Keep an eye on social media and restaurant websites for special deals, discounts, and themed events. Our partners at First Table offers diners a whopping 50% off the bill for booking the first table of the service.
Popular Restaurant Areas in Sydney To Consider
Sydney has several popular neighbourhoods that are well-stocked with places to eat, each with its own unique character and charm. Some of the top dining precincts include:
The Rocks: This historic neighbourhood is home to some of Sydney’s oldest and most iconic venues, including Hart’s Pub and Lord Nelson’s Brewery Hotel.
Surry Hills: This trendy inner-city suburb is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse and vibrant list of restaurants, cafes, and bars that leaves you feeling like a discerning diner.
Circular Quay: Enjoy stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge at one of the many harbourside eateries by the quay.
Bondi Beach: This iconic beachside suburb is home to an endless string of restaurants, cafes, and takeaway shops serving everything from seafood to ice cream.
Booking The Best of Sydney
Whether you’re a seasoned Sydneysider or just visiting, the vivid hospitality scene in this vibrant city has something for everyone. From the best seafood spots to hip cocktail bars, booking the best is easy with Now Book It. Just narrow down your dining criteria, keep online booking platforms handy for quick and easy reservations and you should be all set for a stellar Sydney dining experience.
If you’re a restaurant in Sydney looking to up your booking game, Now Book It’s complete and easy to use platform can help. Book a demo today to learn more!
