Lunch, whether an extended brunch or a swift midweek stop, should be enjoyed and savoured.
We’ve selected the top places in the postcode serving up a selection of cuisines to suit your lunch style – sit back and settle in for a long lunch in one of the most picturesque spots in our city.
Whether it’s Winter or Summer in our beautiful harbour city, one thing’s for certain – we love our lunch in Sydney.
While we may boast some of the best breakfasts and brunches, we’ve also uncovered where locals and visitors alike flock to for their midday feasts. So discover the places that will tempt your tastebuds and supercharge you throughout those busy Sydney days.
Make it Mediterranean at midday: The Apollo
The perfect mix of elegance, rustic warmth and honest food greets you at The Apollo on Macleay Street, Potts Point. Serving a midday feast for all the senses from Friday to Sunday, you can indulge in meals that blend innovation with tradition.
Whether you’re seated at the welcoming chef’s table or taking in the sunshine along the street seating, our favourite Greek treats to finish off your meal are the honey-soaked Loukoumades with Pomegranate, Yogurt and Pistachio.
Make it the most talked about lunch on the waterfront: Otto Ristorante
There’s a reason why celebrities, socialites and locals alike flock to the Finger Wharf and the luxe tables of Otto Ristorante. From fresh seafood to delicious handmade pastas, it’s not only the elegant, trendy ambiance that draws people in.
The modern plates make statements equal to the conversation that hovers above them, and it is impossible to escape without sampling something truly delicious over a long lunch any day of the week. We find it hard to go past the fresh Sydney rock oysters with salmon roe, cucumber and chardonnay vinegar, or the potato gnocchi with braised lamb shoulder, green olives and rosemary.
Make it a power lunch with flavours that pack a punch: China Doll
A work lunch or social sit-in pairs perfectly with the Modern Asian delights and scenic views offered at China Doll on Woolloomooloo’s Finger Wharf. Sunset can all too quickly set in while you’re sipping their photogenic Asian-inspired cocktails and devouring plates of Dim Sum.
The atmosphere is both striking and welcoming, underscored by generous portions and nods to the rich heritage behind the dishes. The Crispy Pork Belly with Chilli Caramel & Nam Pla Phrik and Cone Bay Barramundi with Shiitake Mushroom Dashi are staple favourites that will leave you as satisfied as good conversation.
Make it a memorable Italian moment: Fratelli Paradiso
Atmospheric dining and delicious dishes combine at this local favourite, making Fratelli Paradiso the perfect lunch spot. Their refined Italian dishes pair perfectly with imported wines, making a long lunch all too easy and enjoyable.
Scattered with enticing dishes, Fratelli’s giant blackboard can easily anchor you to the delicious dishes from morning to afternoon. Uncluttered and unpretentious, you can trust the menu to serve crowd favourites like Risotto with heirloom zucchini, mascarpone and school prawns, and Bufala mozzarella with shishito peppers, ox heart tomato and fig. We won’t judge you for dipping into the selection of imported wines as well!
Make it a culinary and social statement: The Butler
Looking for a lunch filled with share plates and a stream of inventive cocktails? Look no further than The Butler – except if you want to gaze from its perfectly-situated balcony at the sweeping Sydney city skyline.
Ibero-American dishes accompany the vibrant decor to serve you an unforgettable long lunch. Whether you stop for some sliders and a refreshment or settle in for some of the large share plates including Pipian Chicken with pepita crumble, cured onions and quelites, you’re guaranteed to leave with your senses satisfied.
Make it a healthy choice with no regrets: Health Nuts
Haven’t got the time or stomach for a traditionally decadent long lunch? Then try a healthy one.
Situated under the iconic Coca-Cola sign, Health Nuts offers passers-by express, guilt-free choices that hit the midweek workers lunch spot. The newly-expanded digs promise nothing but fresh, satisfying vegan and gluten-free options.
The selection of plant-based wholefoods includes a vegan twist on pulled ‘pork’ sliders, a fresh salad bar and a host of tempting, guilt-free vegan cakes and raw desserts. It’s where I regularly make a quick pit stop on a work day and the endless healthy lunch options and convenient location make this quick stop one of our return favourites for the Sydneysider on the go.
Do you want to make one of these lunch spots your local? Get in touch with our team today and start planning your Sydney brunches that turn into long lunches.
