Must-try food in Sydney: 10 yummy dishes to remember

Must-try food in Sydney: 10 yummy dishes to remember

From rock oysters to avocado on toast, here are the 10 tastiest foods to try in Sydney.

3 Dec 2024

The culinary offerings in Sydney are as dazzling as its iconic harbor. With its coastal location, seafood is a highlight, but food in Sydney offers much more. From hearty pub staples to Asian-inspired dishes, local must-eats span both sides of Sydney Harbor, celebrating the city’s rich multicultural roots.
From savoring fresh barramundi by the coast to slurping a warming bowl of Vietnamese pho in bustling markets, this round-up of 10 foods to try in Sydney captures the essence of local life: indulging in diverse and delicious cuisine year-round.

Barramundi is best enjoyed simply, with lemon and herbs.

1. Barramundi

Barramundi is one of the most famous foods in Sydney. It can be found in upscale restaurants like Margaret in Double Bay, and casual fish and chip shops like Fat Fish in Annandale. This native Australian fish has a firm, moist texture and a mild, buttery flavor, and it is often served grilled with seasonal veggies or chips.

How to eat the best barramundi in Sydney?

Choose accompaniments that highlight the fish’s natural flavor, like a light lemon and herb seasoning. Pair it with a crisp white wine and enjoy it from top Sydney viewing points to appreciate the city’s beauty while savoring this local delicacy.

Food in Sydney doesn't get more classic than the iconic meat pie.

2. Meat pie

Aussie comfort food at its best, the meat pie is as popular in Sydney as it is in Melbourne. Encased in a flaky crust with rich gravy and tender beef, it’s the perfect on-the-go bite.

How to eat the best meat pie in Sydney?

Look for a pie with a golden crust at Harry’s Cafe de Wheels in Woolloomooloo. This beloved institution is as iconic to locals as the Sydney Opera House, serving residents and tourists since the 1930s. Drizzle tomato sauce over the pie and enjoy it with a cold drink.

Sydney rock oysters and champagne is the perfect combination.

3. Sydney rock oysters

Sydney rock oysters are a must-eat, offering a briny and slightly sweet taste unique to local waters. Harvested off the New South Wales coast, these oysters are smaller but richer than their Pacific cousins found in other regions, making them a luxurious treat.

How to eat the best Sydney rock oysters?

Savor them freshly shucked with a squeeze of lemon or mignonette sauce. For the ultimate Sydney experience, enjoy a fresh serving overlooking Sydney Harbor Bridge, paired with a glass of champagne at the famous Opera Bar.

Avocado toast is a beloved Aussie staple found on most brunch menus.

4. Avocado toast

Brunch is central to Sydney’s food scene, with avocado toast being a popular food that reflects the city’s love for fresh, healthy ingredients. Typically served on artisan sourdough, it’s often garnished with toppings like feta, poached eggs, or dukkah.

How to eat the best avocado toast in Sydney?

Head to all-day brunch spots like The Grounds of Alexandria or Bills in Surry Hills for perfectly balanced avocado toast seasoned with sea salt, pepper and lime. Pair it with a flat white to complete your Sydney brunch.

Pavlova has long been a subject of friendly rivalry between Australia and New Zealand.

5. Pavlova

Pavlova is a refreshing dessert often enjoyed during summer in Sydney and has long been a subject of friendly rivalry between Australia and New Zealand. Sydney’s version has a crispy meringue shell with a soft, marshmallow-like center, topped with whipped cream and fresh fruit.

How to eat the best pavlova in Sydney?

To enjoy the perfect pavlova, take a bite that combines the crisp meringue, creamy center, and juicy, tangy fruit. Don’t forget to pair it with a chilled glass of dessert wine or a refreshing spritz. Sydney’s many wine-tasting tours have plenty of inspiration.

Chicken schnitzel is pub comfort food at its best.

6. Chicken schnitzel

Schnitzel became a staple in Sydney’s food culture through European influence, thriving in the city’s pubs and communal dining spots since the mid-20th century. This golden, breaded cutlet is typically paired with fries and a side salad or topped with gravy, and is Sydney comfort food at its best.

How to eat the best chicken schnitzel in Sydney?

Enjoy your schnitzel at a beer garden after a day of outdoor activities in Sydney. Popular spots include The Glenmore and The Trinity, where it’s served with yummy sides.

Nothing beats takeaway fish and chips in newspaper, enjoyed on the beach.

7. Fish and chips

Eating fish and chips by the beach is a classic Sydney experience. The fish, often local barramundi or flathead, is lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, served with crispy chips and any extras of choice like potato cakes or Chiko Rolls.

How to eat the best fish and chips in Sydney?

While Sydney restaurants serve a mean fish and chips, grab yours wrapped in newspaper from a local takeaway joint and head to Bondi Beach for a true Aussie vibe. For an extra zing, drizzle vinegar over the chips or dunk them in tartar sauce.

The iconic prawn cocktail is a retro dish that's made a big comeback.

8. Prawn cocktail

A nod to Sydney’s love of seafood, the prawn cocktail is a retro dish that’s made a big comeback and is popular at Christmas in Sydney. Large, juicy prawns are arranged over crisp lettuce with a tangy cocktail sauce. If securing a local Christmas invitation isn’t possible, head to the Sydney Fish Market in Pyrmont to enjoy this dish year-round.

How to eat the best prawn cocktail in Sydney?

Dip each succulent prawn into the tangy sauce, savoring the balance of sweetness and zest. Pair with a white wine and friends to do this festive classic justice.

Pho is a testament to Sydney's vibrant Vietnamese community.

9. Pho

Sydney’s vibrant Vietnamese community has made pho a beloved local dish. This aromatic noodle soup, typically made with beef or chicken, is served in a rich, fragrant broth that’s soul-warming during winter in Sydney. The best pho can be found in Sydney neighborhoods like Cabramatta, Marrickville, and Bankstown, where family-run eateries serve flavorful bowls.

How to eat the best pho in Sydney?

Head to Tân Bình Minh in Cabramatta for a bowl with tender meat and a deep, aromatic broth. Add fresh herbs, bean sprouts, and a squeeze of lime, then pair with a Vietnamese iced coffee.

photo: insatiablemunch

Gelato is the perfect on-the-go treat while exploring Sydney.

10. Gelato

Sydney’s hot climate makes gelato a popular food to eat year-round. The city offers many artisan gelaterias with unique, tasty offerings, from classic chocolate to innovative combinations.

How to eat the best gelato in Sydney?

Stop by Gelato Messina or Cow and the Moon — award-winning spots known for flavors like dulce de leche and pistachio praline. Enjoy your gelato in a cup or cone while strolling along Circular Quay.

FAQs

Where can you find the best seafood in Sydney?

Visit the Sydney Fish Market in the early morning for the freshest catch of the day. Indulge in local favorites such as Sydney rock oysters, barramundi, and king prawns. In the evening, enjoy seafood platters at popular waterfront spots like Flying Fish and Doyles paired with stunning views — one of the best things to do in Sydney at night.

Is the food in Sydney expensive?

Sydney’s food suits all budgets. Street food and casual spots offer quality meals from around $10 to $20 AUD, while mid-range dining is around $25 to $40 AUD per main. Upscale restaurants, especially those with waterfront views and top-tier ingredients, can sometimes exceed $50 AUD per person.

What time is dinner in Sydney?

In Sydney, dinner typically starts around 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM, with many restaurants offering early dining options. However, the city has a vibrant nightlife, and it’s not uncommon for people to dine later, especially on weekends. Popular dining spots stay open until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM, with some offering late-night menus.

What is the best time to visit Sydney for foodies?

The best time to visit Sydney for food lovers is autumn (March to May) or spring (September to November). These seasons offer perfect weather for outdoor dining, with lively food markets and al fresco options. You can enjoy casual eats like those at the Night Noodle Markets or sip on local wines at rooftop bars. The moderate climate also brings out the best of Sydney’s seasonal produce.

Can you get vegetarian or vegan food in Sydney?

Sydney offers plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Many restaurants and cafes cater to plant-based diets, with dishes ranging from creative bowls to burgers. Areas like Newtown and Surry Hills are known for their vegan-friendly spots.

Read more about Sydney