My Favourite Restaurants in Sydney
If you know me, you’ll know I love good food. I usually discover restaurants either from seeing what others are sharing or by randomly exploring on Google Maps, depending on the area I want to visit. Many of these restaurants are places I love recommending to couples — perfect for a night out, a celebration, or simply spending time together with your partner. While not all of them are fine dining, the food always needs to be delicious, and the ambiance matters just as much. These are the spots I enjoy visiting with my partner, and I hope you’ll love them too.
1. Cafe Paci
Cafe Paci is one of Sydney’s most talked-about restaurants for good reason. Located in Newtown, it’s lively and bustling — yes, it can get noisy, but that energy is part of its charm. Booking ahead is essential, as it’s quite hard to get a table. The menu is creative and delicious, making it perfect for a night out with someone you love. Whether you’re stopping by for a casual dinner or just soaking up the atmosphere, it’s a place where good food meets a fun, vibrant vibe.
During my visit, I tried the devilled egg with trout roe — I loved the textures, and if you enjoy rich and creamy flavors, this is a must-try. I also had the Beef à la Plancha, which was my first time trying it. The thinly sliced beef was full of flavor, and the sauce complemented it beautifully. The Black Angus steak frites was tender and just melted in my mouth. For dessert, I had the carrot sorbet with yoghurt and licorice. It’s an unusual combination, but somehow the flavors work really well together, with a texture that reminds me of ice cream — but for adults.
Overall, the food is impressive, the ambiance makes it a lovely spot to spend time with your loved ones, and the staff were knowledgeable and friendly, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
2. Kindred
Kindred is a bit of a hidden gem in Sydney — not as famous as Café Paci, but the food is just as memorable. Located in Darlington, the space can get busy, so it can be a little noisy at times, but that doesn’t take away from the experience.
I highly recommend trying their chef tasting menu (around $75 per person). It’s a great deal for what you get. The handmade sourdough bread is amazing; I’d read about it in reviews, but tasting it for myself truly lived up to the hype. Every main course I tried was flavorful and well-prepared, and the tiramisu is a standout, especially if you enjoy a rich, boozy dessert.
I love recommending Kindred for a cozy night out, where the focus is on delicious flavors and enjoying the moment with someone special. Just keep in mind that it can get busy, so if you’re hoping for a quiet, intimate dinner, this might not be the best choice — but I can assure you, the food is worth it.
3. Izy.Aki
If you love a slower, more intimate dining experience, Izy.Aki is perfect. Located in Paddington and run by chef Darren Templeman, this omakase spot is small compared to the previous restaurants, and you can actually chat with the chef while they prepare your meal — which makes for a really special experience. The menu changes regularly, keeping each visit exciting, and the team is warm and welcoming. It’s a fantastic choice for couples who want to linger over their food and enjoy meaningful conversation.
I’ve been here twice, and I loved both visits. The egg with foie gras is a highlight, with flavors that burst in your mouth and textures that make every bite interesting. The swordfish was perfectly cooked, and the Black Opal Wagyu steak came with three types of wasabi, including Tasmanian wasabi, which added a subtle kick. For dessert, the Hokkaido cheesecake soufflé is a must-try — light, fluffy, and beautifully balanced. Shout out to the whole team; I’ll definitely be coming back.
4. Gunners Barracks
Gunners Barracks in Mosman is iconic — it’s famous as a wedding venue, but it also opens for lunch on weekdays. The location is stunning, with breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet special. Lunch is served weekdays only from 12pm to 3pm, with options starting at $45 for one course, $65 for two courses, and $85 for three courses — all including a glass of wine, beer, or soft drink, plus tea or coffee. It’s a really good value for the quality of food and the experience.
During my visit, I tried the steak and duck confit for mains, and both were delicious. The menu changes regularly, so I suggest checking their website before visiting to see what’s on offer. I love visiting Gunners Barracks with my partner, and it’s always a spot that leaves an impression — the views, the food, and the ambiance all make it a memorable experience.