Your favourite restaurant says a lot about you. At least, that's the age old adage, and the tried and tested RUSSH policy.
Whether you gravitate toward places that are cheap and cheerful, or an elegant special spot, the places we go time and time again we hold with as much adoration as we felt on the first visit. With so many stalwart eateries in Sydney closing (and so many new spots on our radar), we thought it was important to share our old faithfuls and new loves. For your degustational perusal, these are the to-dine-for. These are the best restaurants in Sydney, according to the RUSSH team. Now go forth and conquer.
The Restaurant Pendolino
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The new BOTTEGA Pendolino Wine Bar offers an exceptional casual setting to enjoy The Restaurant Pendolino’s highly-awarded wine list alongside beautifully crafted Italian cuisine. Since 2008, the establishment has been a stronghold of traditional Italian cuisine from the heart of the city. Stepping through its iconic doors, you're transported to the richness of an Italian culinary adventure all within the walls of The Strand's historic decor and venue.
Whether spontaneously visiting the Strand Arcade after shopping, in need of a carby refuelling, or reserving a table overlooking the remarkable heritage architecture, guests can expect a non-fussy but refined food and wine experience. Alongside a charcoal grill menu features more substantial choices such as grilled whole Snowy River Rainbow Trout and Cape Grim Bistecca Fiorentina. The food is top notch without the frills. Sign us up.
Bennelong
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Is there a more iconic restaurant than Bennelong that we have to our name, and shores? Housed on the harbour, with the best view in the house – and the food matches the panoramic sights from every end. Head chef Peter Gilmore is at the helm of all chef operations, and as a premier culinary great you know you'll be in steady, capable hands. With a premier menu focused on local Australian produce and seafood, you can find anything haute end from fresh shucked scallops and duck confit to a dessert that resembles the Opera House itself. Coupled with wine service, attentive service, and a bread basket to top off as you go, there's not much else you'd need. Touche.
Sean's
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Sean's is yet another classic that has retained its institutional-edge for many well-worn and beloved years. Over 30, to be precise. The house-brined chicken has been served for decades over its honeycomb tiles, and there's been no complaints all around. Lovers of seafood are also treated to oysters on demand and their succulent Murray cod which flakes on the tongue. Lovers of the sea need to only look outward for the rollicking view of Bondi's whitecapped waves. Australian boutique wines by the glass are also served alongside your craft lagers. Something for everyone, but ambience for all.
Una Mas
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Tapas are best done with a steady hand and a paring back when it comes to assembly, presentation, and everything else. It's after all, all about the taste. The laidback approach is something Una Mas has perfected as its backhand. For beverage pairing, there's quality vermouth and European-fused cocktails for your enjoyment. Get octopus by the sea, lashings of cured meat, and buffalo mozarella heaped on everything, or start with all three. Sectioned on the middle floor of Coogee Pavillion, you're spoilt for choice without compromising the lounging. Be warned: there's only 50 seats in the Tapas bar. Bring your girls early, and you're ready for an evening by the Pav.
Ante
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Who would have thought a long, narrow table off of King Street would house a wealth of transportive dishes, and the most incredible crib sheet of sake to follow? (There are 60 dizzying options.)We didn't, but Matt Young and Jenna Whiteman sure did. The minds behind Ante are responsible for konbini and izakaya fare with a grounded approach to Australian produce and fare. The Japanese flavour-laced pastas are a dream. In the mood for more of a nibble? The snack menu is a riotous explosion of flavour and crunch. Katsu corner-cut sandos for the table.
