Sydney restaurants located within a 5 minute walk of Circular Quay | Ratings, Reviews & Maps

Came here for dinner one night with the family, great experience! Unlike some of the other reviewers it seems we got quite lucky with the view, we were placed right in the middle on the terrace facing directly towards the harbour which was great, our waitress was absolutely incredible, she remembered a few things and her customer service skill was top notch, polite, friendly, smiling, and attentive. She recommended the table some incredible drinks of which I had a few, she picked up on my tastes and recommended a few more similar drinks which I absolutely also loved. Top notch service from the lady with blonde hair. (Didn’t grab a name). The food was also great, went for one of the only beef options on the menu, I think from memory it was a lot of seafood but the beef was cooked perfectly and had the best sauce, entirety of the table also wen for desert which was also lovely, would definitely come back and we also ran into our friends there too who share our opinions. Hopefully the other reviewers can come back and experience what we did! Only thing to add is that I wish the portion sizes for the food were larger but what we got was expected of a place like this and similar venues.
Coolest Cat in the West - a month ago

Excellent vibe and view of circular quay. Food was excellent, love the octopus and garlic naan appetiser. Octopus was so soft. Fish was fantastic and service is on the dot. The waiter is very attention to the detail. Overall it's good.
Presley Tan - 2 weeks ago

Came to Cafe Sydney on an impromptu visit - we were meant to go somewhere else but over the holidays it was closed and my friend thought this would be casual place to visit. It’s definitely not a casual vibe place but I’m so glad we came. I have not been to cafe Sydney in years and it was as spectacular as I remember with a Beautiful vista overlooking the harbour bridge and water. As we had no reservation we had one of the random tables inside but service was still great, a lovely vibe and absolutely delicious food. We opted to share a few things - the pork chop, the salmon in curry sauce, some garlic naan and rosemary chat potatoes. Honestly everything was delicious and would recommend! Total bill came to 180 (we each had a drink) and I thought this very reasonable esp considering the location, service and the quality of food. Would definitely recommend and would return - although ideally with a table on the patio overlooking the water!
Anna - 2 months ago

I went for a work Christmas lunch. The view was amazing and I felt so lucky to be there. I did find the service to be quite slow but I also understand it was a very busy day for them. The staff were a little rude at times and although they were great at topping up glasses it would have been nice to ask first. Sometimes people are watching how much they drink and automatic top ups can through you off. Such a beautiful restaurant and the view really was exceptional
Gaynor Maree - 2 months ago

Amazing views at Cafe Sydney. Despite its name, Cafe Sydney is actually a high end restaurant perched on top of Custom House with sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour (except when a massive cruise ship blocks the view). The food is pricey and imaginative, but overall taste and balance of sauces and ingredients are well below the view which is a strong 5/5. I had the NZ snapper - very innovative seaweed dust coating, but I was left unimpressed as components did not quite complement one another. The crème brûlée with fresh raspberries was however delicious 5/5.
JJ Chen - a month ago

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We dined here tonight to celebrate our anniversary, and as always the food was absolutely amazing. Every dish was beautifully presented, full of flavour and cooked to perfection. The service was also warm, attentive and professional without being intrusive. We’ve been coming here every year for our birthdays and anniversary for the past 15 years, and it has always been a special and memorable place for us. That’s why it was a little disappointing to encounter a couple of issues this time around. For the first time ever, we were charged $10 per person for tap water, which we found quite unusual. It actually ended up costing more than the Diet Coke my wife ordered at $9. We completely understand paying for bottled water, but being charged that amount for tap water felt unexpected and wasn’t mentioned to us beforehand. We were also really looking forward to enjoying the view, as that has always been part of the overall experience. Unfortunately, all the windows near our table was extremely dirty, which made it difficult to properly see outside and appreciate the scenery. For a venue known for its ambience and outlook, a thorough window clean would make a big difference. We truly love dining here and will continue to return, as it holds many special memories for us. Aside from those two issues, the evening would have been perfect. We hope this feedback is taken on board, as we would love for our next visit to be flawless.
Ray J - 2 weeks ago

Aria is such a fantastic spot for a meal, especially if you’re looking to pair great food with one of the best views in Sydney. The location couldn’t be better—right next to the Opera House with sweeping views of the harbor, so you really get that “Sydney moment” while dining. The food was excellent, beautifully presented and full of flavor, and the service matched it perfectly. The staff were warm and attentive, with the waitresses adding a friendly touch that made the whole experience feel welcoming. We went for an early dinner, which I’d highly recommend. At that time you get the best of both worlds: the bright daytime view of the harbor and then the transition into the golden glow of magic hour. It makes the atmosphere even more special, with the restaurant’s elegant vibe blending seamlessly with the stunning backdrop outside. Overall, Aria delivers on every front—location, food, service, and ambiance. Definitely worth a visit if you want a memorable dining experience in Sydney.
Wesley Ho - a week ago

The food was absolutely finger-licking good — full of flavour and beautifully prepared. Every dish tasted amazing, and honestly, I wished the portions were slightly bigger because it was that good. The atmosphere, however, felt a bit crowded and noisy, which doesn’t quite match the expectations of a fine dining experience. A more relaxed and refined ambience would really elevate the overall experience. Service was generally good, but it would be great if staff could be more attentive with refilling water for guests without being asked. Overall, a very enjoyable meal with outstanding food.
AUD - 2 weeks ago

World-class service and amazing desserts, but the mains missed the mark. I have mixed feelings about Aria. Parts of the meal were exceptional, but others didn't quite hit the mark for this price point. The Good: The Yellowfin Tuna was incredible, and the burnt butter mash is a must-try. The desserts (chocolate and mango soufflé) were also standouts. A huge highlight was the service; the staff are amazing and genuinely seem to love working there. They even brought out a cupcake and candle for my birthday, which was a lovely touch. The Not-So-Good: The fillet steak was disappointing, tougher than expected and quite rough toward the outside. The pasta was forgettable, and the cocktails lacked depth and felt a bit watered down. Verdict: 5-star hospitality and atmosphere, but I expected more consistency from the mains and the bar.
Elegant Cactus - a month ago

A last minute trip via ferry to Circular Quay yesterday Friday 3d October 2025. We toured the Opera House & then per chance we looked up & noticed the ‘Aria’ restaurant with its glass facade overlooking the harbour & the iconic Harbour Bridge. We didn’t have a reservation but were fortunate to be early enough to secure seating. What an excellent experience we had. The staff were simply a joy & made our lunch experience memorable We chose two courses each, the ‘aged duck’ & the ‘Chris Bolton wild caught fish’ with a side of royal blue mashed potato. For dessert we had ‘matcha coconut & citrus’ & ‘milk chocolate, honey & hazelnut.’ This truly delighted my taste buds. We paired the meal with a delicious Pino Gri. I can truly say that we haven’t tasted food this good for a very long time. So many tantalising flavours, I mean food that really had flavour, the fish actually had taste !…not drowned in sauce that hide the true taste was such a joy. Will we return ?…. We live on the Central Coast NSW but visit family in Sydney regularly, so the answer is ….most certainly & we will be happy to share our excellent experience with friends & family also. Thank you to the chef & staff for a lovely time. Gail & Ron Reed.
Gail Fitzgerald Reed - 5 months ago

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Their drinks and cakes were amazing. However, the staff did not look patient when we spent some time deciding what to order. It is better to sit in front of the restaurant than the back for more air ventilation.
Charlie C - a week ago

STOP! If you are trying to find the best coffee in the rocks/circular Quay area, aren't you lucky you found this place. I work in the area, I have tried several cafes and now I do not go anywhere else. The coffee is perfect from morning to afternoon, I know because I'm a twice a day kind of guy. It's the perfect strength bean too, the flavour is rich you feel the caffeine but not so much to have anxiety and jitters. The staff are incredible too, always with a smile, and looking to brighten your day with their infectious good mood. The biggest mistake I made was tasting their food, now I want to try everything they have... It is delicious! Whether it's a sweet treat, a savoury snack, or a sandwich for lunch, they've got you taken care of. I couldn't recommend highly enough!
Wyatt Culbert - a month ago

The pastries are truly exceptional. Each one is beautifully crafted, with delicate layers, balanced sweetness, and impeccable presentation. From buttery croissants to intricately designed cakes, every bite feels refined and thoughtfully made. The quality is unmistakable.
Mirene - 2 weeks ago

Was strolling along near the cruise ship terminals and stumbled on this gem. I came in 30 minutes after opening and they were still stocking up on their goodies. Everything I got was delicious. The salmon quiche egg texture was perfect. The cruffin had a nice custard with a crunch to it. The ham and cheese croissant was heavenly. I would have ordered everything on display if I could.
vu nguyen - 3 months ago

A lovely French cafe with a charming backyard that feels just like a cozy home garden. The coffee is excellent, and the pastries are freshly made in-house and absolutely delicious.
ali aziziasl - 3 months ago

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Malay is hands down one of the most luxurious Malaysian dining experiences I’ve ever had. From the moment we walked in, it was clear that this place is all about quality and attention to detail. Every dish we tried—from the rich, aromatic curries to the perfectly grilled skewers—was bursting with flavor and showcased the care and skill that went into preparing it. The presentation was just as impressive as the taste, making each course feel like a special experience in itself. Service was consistently attentive and polished without feeling overbearing, which added to the overall elegance of the meal. The staff clearly knew the menu inside out and were happy to offer recommendations, which made the experience feel personalized. Yes, the prices are on the higher side, but given the quality of the ingredients, the craftsmanship of the dishes, and the overall atmosphere, it felt justified. This is the kind of place you go to when you want to treat someone extra special or celebrate a memorable occasion. Overall, Malay isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience that elevates Malaysian cuisine to a whole new level. Highly recommended!
John (The Purpose Coach) - 2 months ago

Very Authentic Malaysian restaurant in the heart of the city. Fine dining done with perfection. Ambiance, Service and Food were amazing. The staff knows what is on the menu and is able to answer questions about each dish. Courteous, polite and friendly staff. Very fresh and authentic food from Malaysia. Enjoyed the time with family and also enjoyed the food. Heads Up, need to book in advance as even Monday night was full house. Highly recommended this restaurant.
MaxT - a month ago

40 years later, I review this icon. Now in its third home, many of the hits hit as consistently as The Don with a stump and a cricket ball. The eggplant and beef malaya curry are dead set winners. Had the fish been cooked for about half the time it was, it too would have rocketed this score to 5*. The breads and rices were ok, but not stellar. An excellent wine list is priced for us to learn moderation. All in all a very safe pair of hands in this part of town.
Kitchen Insider - 2 months ago

We were big fans of the King St location, so we wanted to try their new address on George St. The food is still great, especially the szechuan eggplant & the beef rendang. The service was faultless. We had a good view of the terrace area & George St. So glad they have found a new home.
Julie Knott - 2 months ago

Food to die for and the service to match. Everything we had here has been great. Pictures show the Beef Rendang, Black Pepper Beef, Chicken Satay Skewers, Roti with Duck Curry Sauce and Jasmine Rice. I would recommend all of the above.
Joe Fletcher - a month ago

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Located at 91 George Street, The Rocks, New South Wales, Australia 🇦🇺 This is an extremely popular spot to come while visiting the Rocks. Especially on the weekends. They have an amazing range of cakes 🍰 to pick from, along with other delicious dishes. I had a French Toast and hot chocolate and they were both amazing. A bit pricey but I think it’s to be expected considering the location. It’s in a prime spot. The staff were very welcoming and helpful. Nothing too much trouble. The toilets are located up the stairs so this is not very accessible for people with mobility issues but there are toilets located nearby. There is seating inside and outside but as it’s so popular these can fill up quickly. I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this amazing cafe and look forward to returning. Thumbs up!! 👍👍👍
Nerine Cummins - 5 months ago

Among the many cares I am trying out, this was particularly tasty. A great combo we discovered was getting the Croque Madame for salty savory bite and then getting the Berry Waffle for a sweet dessert with lattes. Very delicious. Service was excellent as well. Quick to seat and take orders. Everything came out relatively quickly. Loved the place. Would definitely repeat!.
Will Koo - 5 months ago

Perfectly toasted, beautifully plated, and absolutely indulgent. The warm caramelized topping paired with silky custard and a scoop of ice cream made it such a comforting treat. I also ordered the classic Angus burger — juicy, flavorful, and cooked perfectly. Everything was satisfying from start to finish. Definitely coming back!”
Cok Admawati - 2 weeks ago

Brunch place at the heart of the rocks and the rocks market. Great location. It's a casual place for quick brunch or sandwich bite. Food was OK. Very much place for tourists and unnecessarily pricy. Staff are responsive and good for kids and groups. Indoor and outdoor seatings. Accessible indoor seating with flat street entry.
Max Kay - 3 months ago

Had an excellent breakfast here on NYE, scrambled egg on toast, toast & marmalade, orange juice, small & large cappuccino $41. Less than a 10 min walk from my accomodation in Millers Point area & very close to Campbell’s Cove viewpoint for the fireworks in the evening.
Phil Leighton - 2 months ago

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Was surprised actually on the quality of the food! Great beer on tap, probably almost a dozen. Pizza special while we were there too.
Mike Fritzler - 2 weeks ago

Good spot for a late meal and drinks. It was bustling when there were nothing else much open. We had a pizza which was fantastic!
DNA K - a week ago

Stop here for a beer and a meal, great location down at Circular Quay the beer was great and the food was good enough but the service was lacking which was disappointing. Nice enough pub though and a good spot for a drink.
Chris McMillan - a month ago

It's alright. You cannot order drinks from the QR code, only food. It really makes no sense to me, because you could lose the table you are sitting at if you get up to get drinks with your friends. A staff member I asked about ordering drinks from the QR code literally said "I don't know I just started working here 2 days ago". I was taken back by the comment, how do you not know..? Otherwise the service was fine. I think better places are in the area though. Overall average.
Vinny F - 8 months ago

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Stayed for drinks. Great atmosphere, nice music, excellent and attentive service and a fantastic view. Cruise ship was in the way, which we knew about and departed to reveal an amazing view of the Opera House. Well worth a stop for afternoon drinks with a great vibe. Booking recommended on busy occasions.
Richard Millard - 2 weeks ago

We visited Cruise bar and restaurant on a balmy Sunday evening and loved the outlook ambience and attentive service we received. When we booked we had kind of expect to be seated upstairs but this area was closed. Our only complaint about the downstairs low lying tables that those eating pasta found them hard to eat that type of meal from without making a mess. Food wise what did disappoint unfortunately was the temperature of the food that was served… both pastas and my steak were luke warm at best when they arrived to us. The only dish that arrived warm seems to be the chicken parma… which had us thinking all the other dishes must have been waiting on the pass for an absolute age before being sent along with the parma. Definitely a disappointment temperature wise but still good flavours and we still enjoyed our time at Cruise overall.
Espy Eats - 2 months ago

Takes alot for me to give a bad review but unfortunately this was a major disappointment! We were super excited to go for the valentines dinner. We arrived 40 minutes early for a drink, were greeted by 2 lovely members of staff and told we could sit downstairs and have a drink at the bar (lovely staff, quick service). we then went upstairs to go to the restaurant 5 minutes before our booking. We were sat down at a tiny table for 2, with a pillar/curtain blocking the view of sydney opera house. Now i wouldnt usually say anything but because we had booked so far in advance & paid a significant amount for the dinner I asked the waitress politely if we could move over a seat so our view wasn't obstructed (there was about 3 tables empty with a full view from the window). She said she would ask her manager (pls note this worker was really lovely & no attitude) The female manager came over with a nasty attitude & said we werent allowed to move seats although we were 5 minutes early for our booking, noone else was sat down & we had booked 2 months in advance. Her reasoning was that they have bookings in slots & if we moved it would affect that - even though everyone else came for the same slot as us and we were early… Anyway we had to stay so ate there & the food took 1.5 hours to come out. Nothing special. The girls beside us complained about how long it took for their food to come out (same time as us) and they were given free drinks but we werent! Overall waste of money. Really sad as it was advertised as a great view of the sydney opera house & good food but definitely wouldnt recommend to a friend
dz - 2 weeks ago

The cruise! (I thought it was the massive Princess Cruise that's spotted around the Harbour Bridge when I first heard it lol) You understand why it's called The Cruise only if you visit! Their terrace area has this spectacular view to the iconic Sydney Opera House, as if you were on a cruise ship 🚢 ! Have a sit and chat over glasses of wine and other colourful drink on the Cruise. Feel the waves of the rolling ocean on its deck. The Cruise takes you through the spectacular sunset over the Opera House's white shells. A fabulous bar/resto. I'd absolutely come again for another glass of orange wine 😊🍊🥂
Justin Everywhere - a month ago

We recently held our company event at Cruise Bar in Circular Quay. The location was absolutely stunning, with amazing harbour views that really added to the Christmas and year-end celebration. The atmosphere was lively, and the venue itself was stylish and enjoyable. However, the overall service and catering fell short of expectations. The drinks selection was very limited, and the finger-food portions were quite small, with not much variety. Many of us ended up going out for dinner afterwards because the food wasn’t sufficient for an event of this size. Service was also inconsistent. Some servers seemed inexperienced or part-time, and the bar staff were often distracted on their phones, resulting in slow responses. For such a premium location, I expected a higher level of professionalism and attention. Cruise Bar is undeniably beautiful and well-located, but the food and service quality need improvement to match the venue’s reputation.
JIM LEE - 2 months ago

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Great atmosphere!! A perfect place for drink and food especially on a friday night.Location is perfect and the service is good. Price for the food is reasonable too.
Surma Subedi - 8 years ago

Great and convienant place to meet up with people for drinks or a quick bit to eat. Close to Circular Quay, the opera house, the rocks and the train. Food is ok and reasonably priced. Great to sit outside in the sun, and enjoy a nice cold beer. Friendly and well trained staff.
Allister Muir - 8 years ago

Great atmosphere and great location. Tasty food and even tastier drinks. Staff are efficient and friendly.
Booboo Kittiefukk - 8 years ago

Amazing place where you enjoy 360°view of Sydney, excellent taste, a really fine dining.
thanh mai Lai - 6 years ago

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