Treat yo'self! A culinary journey through Sydney

One of the best things about living in Sydney is the endless choice of restaurants to pick from and as a self-confessed foodie, nothing gives me more pleasure than seeking out the best culinary experiences in my city. There’s something for every budget and appetite, whether it’s for a celebration with friends or an intimate date night with your one and only. Have a look at my top 5 choices below and hopefully it inspires you to explore the cosmopolitan world of Sydney gastronomy.

A Sydney institution where you can watch TV chef Kylie Kwong work her magic at one of Sydney’s best modern Chinese restaurants. Kwong prepares the kind of food her family cooks. The Prawn Wontons with Brown Rice Vinegar are always popular, but the standout dish is the Sweet & Sour Pork Belly with fresh Muntries and Pickled Quandongs. If you and the squad have a big appetite, then you should all indulge in a variety of delicious dishes with the Billy Kwong ten-course banquet ($78).

The fashionable and famous love perching themselves like seagulls over the swimming pool at the south end of Australia’s famous Bondi beach. It is one of the must-visit restaurants in Sydney, for both the stunning views and the splendid food. Prepare to indulge in refined Mediterranean creations like Local Burrata, Blackmore Bresaola, Bay Leaf Oil, Capers, Croutons & Lemon or the Black Angus 150 Day Grain Fed, 500g Boneless Rib Eye, Olsson’s Sea Salt Crusted, served with tableside condiments. Delizioso!

One of Australia’s most acclaimed chefs, Peter Gilmore, oversees the kitchen at possibly the most fabulously situated dining room in town. Tucked inside the Opera House, the restaurant affords views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city skyline. Gilmore’s creations are as special as the view and showcases the best of Australia’s produce; try the Arkady Grass Fed Lamb with Barletta Onions, Eggplant Cream, Capers and Nasturtiums or the Wild Cape York Barramundi with Lemon Puree, Samphire, Young Leek, Native Parsley, Karkalla and Umami Butter.

Named after celebrity chef and cookbook author Bill Granger, all 3 café locations (Bondi Beach, Darlinghurst & Surry Hills) are a hive of activity, especially on weekends. I suggest you try Sydney’s best and creamiest Scrambled Eggs and the Ricotta Hotcakes with Banana and Honeycomb Butter for breakfast. If you are coming for lunch then you can’t go past the Prawn Burger with Jalapeno Mayo, Shaved Radish Salad and Sesame Gochujang.

You are guaranteed a fun night at this chic and trendy Thai eatery. The innovative main which I think are some of the best Thai food in town—are all designed to be shared. Start with the Betel Leaf with Pomelo, Coconut, Cashew, Chilli and Mint and Hiramasa Kingfish Spring Roll. Popular main choices include the Stir Fried Squid with Curry Powder, Snow Peas, Asian Celery, Ginger and Lemon and my personal favourite the Caramelised Pork Hock with Five Spice and Chilli Vinegar which is just heavenly!

Hope you enjoy my top 5 choices of places to dine within Sydney! I just know you’ll love these hot spots as much as I do.