Every day, a new restaurant, cafe, or bar opens in Sydney. To keep on top of all the new exciting places to drink and dine, we’re rounding up the best new openings of 2023.
Vinabar, CBD
With the current Vietnam travel demand and the reality of our bank accounts, we’re flocking to Vinabar, a new Vietnamese-inspired micro bar on Kent Street. Channelling the humm of Hoi An, Vinabar sits behind a discreet stool door, cleverly disguised as a Banh-Mii cart. The space is no bigger than two car spaces, but it’s cosy and cool. You’ll find silk lanterns strewn around the bar and a cocktail list you might not have seen before. Every libation has been meticulously crafted with house-made infusions and other fancy cocktail stuff that will make your jaw drop and reach for your phone. For example, fruits typically found in Southeast Asia make up a Vinagroni, a take on a negroni. There are also twists on an espresso martini and lots of pandan-flavoured concoctions.
The Meat and Wine Co, CBD
This African-inspired steakhouse has just opened its 12th location in the heart of the CBD. The Castlereagh venue will launch its AGED program with black Australian truffle and an extensive menu of South African favourites, including Boerewors—beef sausages with coriander & cumin, chakalaka sauce and onion rings. As always, the wine list is packed with national and international drops to pair perfectly with your meal. Speaking of pairing, the sides are as important as the main meal, with truffle mac and cheese and Vanella’s stracciatella on the menu.
La Prima, Paddington
Sydney’s favourite Mexican cocktail bar, El Primo Sanchez is continuing to transport diners to Mexico with an exciting new venue. Nulled behind a hidden door inside El Primo Sanchez, this 10-seater, 20-standing speakeasy can only be accessed by invitation from staff or by those lucky enough to stumble upon it. Once inside, guests will find themselves immersed in an atmospheric setting, with candlelit ambience, old-school Mexican music, walls adorned with agave, and a dedicated female bartender crafting the drinks. A special rotating menu of curated cocktails by the Maybe Sammy team adds to the allure.
Teddys, Enmore
More than just a bar, Teddys is a community-focused haven that breathes new life into the neighbourhood. Melding the venue’s original charm with contemporary flair, Teddy’s promises to redefine hospitality. With a handpicked selection of locally distilled and all-Australian beverages and a food menu boasting delicious baked in-house focaccia and share plates, Teddys is the Inner West’s answer to the perfect oasis.
Iberica, Bondi
Bondi has a new tapas wine bar. Drawing inspiration from Spain’s enchanting Balearic coast villages, Iberica exudes the charm and warmth of a Mediterranean haven. The interiors are thoughtfully designed to transport guests to the heart of a picturesque village, creating an ambience that harmonises seamlessly with the dishes’ flavours and Spanish-orientated wine list.
Martinez, Quay Quarter Tower
House Made Hospitality, the team behind Lana, Grana, Promenade Bondi Beach, and more, is gearing up to open a new restaurant, favouring the lighter style of southern French cuisine. Martinez will be a colourful, evocative escape from the everyday. Stay tuned for an opening date.
Fabbrica, Rozelle
Fabbrica needs no introduction. The bakery, known for its pillowy, soft and chewy bread, pasta, and lo-fi wines, is opening another shop on a sunny corner in Rozelle. However, this outpost is purely dedicated to focaccia, sourdough, and sweet ‘n’ savoury pastries.
For your daily bread, the shelves are stocked with loaves of the Fabbrica flagship sourdough – the product of a laborious three-day process involving three separate flours and over 24 hours of proofing, baked fresh every day on-site.
Raja, Potts Point
The team behind Tel Aviv eatery Ezra is stepping into Mumbai with their latest venue, Raja, which is conveniently next door. We can guarantee you haven’t experienced this iteration of Indian cuisine before. Co-Owner, Nick and Kirk Mathews-Bowden have brought in Ahana Dutt (formerly of Firedoor) as head chef to bridge traditional Indian flavours with contemporary twists and cooking techniques. Expect Mumbai on a plate, with the exciting addition of regional flavours from all over the sub-continent. The winter greens bhorta and crudites are a highlight and must-order dish.
Belles Hot Chicken
Bondi Beach
Belles Hot Chicken is set to make a sizzling debut in Bondi Beach, taking over the former Fonda Mexican space at 85 Hall Street. With unmatched vibes, great drinks, and their infamous fried chicken, Belles will shake up the Bondi dining scene. The new location, set to open in October, will embrace its beachside setting, channelling the laid-back spirit of American 1970s diners. Led by Belles Design Director Vicki Punch, the makeover will see the dream team’s creative prowess in action. Managing Director Joss-Jenner Leuthart is excited about the match made in heaven: comfort food, booze, tunes, and Australia’s iconic beach just meters away.
Hustlers
CBD
Embark on a clandestine adventure in the heart of Sydney at Hustlers, the city’s newest Asian Fusion restaurant. Paying homage to cultural traditions while incorporating modern twists, Hustlers offers an exhilarating experience with delectable cuisine and enticing cocktails. Explore a curated menu featuring delights like Bone Marrow Mi Goreng and Hiramasa Kingfish Ceviche, complemented by desserts such as Lychee Granita, Vanilla Cheesecake, and Buko Pandan. Step into the establishment, immerse yourself in a secretive gambling den ambience, and savour each visit to Hustlers like a winning hand.
Makaveli
Bondi
Makaveli, Bondi’s newest culinary gem, is co-owned by hospitality rising stars Phill Cooke and Jacob Hill. The Italian-inspired eatery offers a contemporary dining experience with small plates hailing from head chef Jessica Young. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, a leisurely afternoon bite, or a vibrant evening affair, Makaveli delivers at all times of the day.
Sofia Cocktail Lounge
Surry Hills
Sofia Cocktail Lounge, founded by Con and Sophie Bousgas, the duo behind Sofia restaurant above Bar Cleveland, is a stylish drinking destination for locals in Redfern and Surry Hills. The lounge offers a variety of drinks, snacks, and Sofia’s full menu. With seating for 30, it is an ideal spot for pre-dinner cocktails or a night out. Settle into the lounge’s cosy atmosphere, which blends the original warehouse aesthetic with linen curtains, velvet sofas, rattan armchairs, marble tables, and upholstered stools.
The drinks menu features classic cocktails, signature cocktails, and a selection of 46 wines. One notable cocktail is the “Liquid Gold,” which includes Sofia’s own extra virgin olive oil pressed from their chemical-free olive grove in Mani.
Clam Bar
CBD
Since its opening, Clam Bar has been the hottest seat in town. Inspired by New York steakhouses, diners can expect well-executed classics such as steak tartare, vodka pasta, and daggy drinks from the 80s. There’s nothing pretentious about it. Instead, you will find a casual, buzzy atmosphere with insanely good food, good service, and great cocktails.
Midden by Mark Olive
Circular Quay
Celebrated Indigenous Australian chef Mark Olive is set to open Midden by Mark Olive, a new restaurant at the Opera House, on July 4. With a focus on native Australian ingredients, Midden will offer a produce-focused menu inspired by Olive’s heritage. Operated by Doltone Hospitality Group, the restaurant will introduce a fresh culinary vision to the Opera House. Diners can expect flavourful dishes like blue gum-smoked barramundi and quandong-glazed chicken, along with matinee high teas for a delightful harbourside brunch.
Bintang Bro
Darling Square
Prepare your taste buds for a fiery Indonesian feast at Bintang Bro, the ultimate grill shack sensation! With a focus on cooking and roasting over an open flame, this eatery offers a mouthwatering menu filled with grilled main proteins like chicken and barramundi, accompanied by delectable sides such as tofu, Tempe, Indonesian yellow rice, chips, and salads. BBQ skewers featuring Tiger Prawns, chicken, and grilled octopus, as well as wraps and burgers, add to the culinary adventure. Don’t miss out on their tempting snacks like durian pancakes and Indonesian beef meatballs.
King Clarence
CBD
Renowned restaurateurs Brent Savage and Nick Hildebrandt, owners of the acclaimed Bentley Restaurant Group, have announced, come October, they will be unveiling King Clarence, a vibrant Asian eatery located at the bustling intersection of King and Clarence Streets in Sydney’s CBD.
This 100-seat gem will combine the flavours of China, Korea, and Japan, offering a contemporary twist on Asian cuisine. Picture sizzling dishes prepared on a custom-built BBQ and grill while an impressive live seafood tank takes centre stage.
Oti
CBD
The team behind Totti’s is opening a new pizza-by-the-slice and sandwich shop in Palings Lane just off George Street. Oti’, helmed by Mike Eggert, serves up roman style pizza by the slice and Italian sandwiches on hand-stretched schiacciata, made fresh throughout the day. Meats including prosciutto, salami and mortadella will be sliced straight onto the fresh schiacciata sandwiches and hot slab pizzas before being topped with at least one of eight kinds of cheese on offer, including Mike Eggert’s signature burrata. For vegetarians, veggie fillings and toppings will also be on the menu, including mixed olives and capers.
Hunter & Barrel
Parramatta
Hunter & Barrel has earned a well-deserved reputation for its exceptional coal-roasted meats and meticulously crafted barrel-aged beverages. Their renowned “SKEWERED” program showcases a delectable selection, including Tahini Chicken, Dry Aged Striploin, and Honey Glazed Pork Belly, prepared using a variety of cooking methods. With a nod to the ancestral hunter-gatherer traditions, the restaurant embraces the concept of communal dining and feasting, creating a truly immersive dining experience. To complement the food is an innovative barrel-aged craft spirits list, as well as fun cocktails and a serious wine range.
Italian Street Kitchen
Parramatta
After successfully establishing seven locations in Sydney, Perth, and Brisbane, with plans for future expansion in Dubai, we are excited to introduce our latest venture. This new venue embodies the vibrant culture and contemporary ideals of Italy. With seating capacity for 150 guests, both indoors and outdoors, it provides a delightful dining experience year-round, offering lunch and dinner service throughout the week. The bar is stocked with an extensive selection of Italian classics, including the iconic Negroni, as well as a variety of Isabella’s unique twists on Spritz, aperitivo, and refreshing mocktails. Whether you’re seeking a post-work gathering or a leisurely evening out, our venue is the perfect destination for after-work drinks and socializing.
Kanade
Wynyard
Kanade opened on Clarence Street in May this year, designed with the aim of allowing Sydneysiders to experience a piece of Tokyo, without the flights. Open for lunch and dinner, the menu here is Japanese-Italian fushion kaiseki. Think spaghetti with a sauce of miso cream carbonara, bacon and onsen egg, and eggplant miso with a gratin twist. Complimenting the menu is a drinks list of Japanese-inspired cocktails, sake and non-alcoholic.
Sydney Place
Circular Quay
15 exciting food and beverage operators have opened their doors at Sydney Place, the vibrant new precinct in one of Sydney’s most-loved waterfront destinations, Circular Quay. Renowned tenants include chef Federico Zanellato’s Lumi Dining, much-loved pie and pastry store Lode Pies; David Bae’s newest KBBQ outpost, Leemiks; and Sydney institution, Malay Chinese Noodles. Casual dining favourites such as Toby’s Estate, C9 Gelato, Dopa, Open Sesame Middle Eastern, Kosta’s Takeaway, and Toastiesmith have also joined the precinct. May will see the opening of BoBo Dumplings and a Japanese-inspired restaurant and whiskey bar by Joel Best, and later this year, the much-anticipated rebirth of multi-level Jacksons on George by Maurice Terzini and DTLE will open its doors, completing the transformation of Sydney Place into a premium dining and lifestyle destination.
Chouchou
Bondi
Coupling charm and warmth with a Gallic touch, Chouchou (pronounced “shoo-shoo”) is a convivial neighbourhood spot focusing on nostalgic Parisian bistro fare paired with thoughtfully chosen wines and iconic French cocktails. The menu at Chouchou is staunchly French, without the fuss. Expect homely Gallic standards and classic bistro bites, sharing boards and larger dishes. Seasonal cheeses and cured meats from artisan producers across Europe and Australia are served on boards for sharing, and warm baguettes with sea salt butter are a must-add to any order. Crowd favourite, Raclette, is also on the menu with a fun, DIY twist. Served in a mini fondue pot complete with burner, melt your own raclette cheese and dip accompanying vegetables, cornichons, cured meats and bread into the hot, cheesy goodness. take a seat in the snug dining room or people-watch Parisian-style at a streetside table.
Belles Hot Chicken
Circular Quay
Belles Hot Chicken is launching its first full restaurant-style venue in Sydney, with doors opening on March 3. Think of it as a dining experience that blurs the lines between a dedicated chicken joint, restaurant and rowdy local diner. Seating 130 people, Belles’ newest venture is comfort food refined and dialled for up to ten. The new venue is quintessential Belles: warm tones, cork detailing, neon galore and vintage tiles and a merch vending machine. The menu is stacked. Wings, drumsticks, tenders and buffalo cauli are each available in Belles’ signature flavours—chicken salt, original, traveller, hot and really f**kin hot. Then there are Nashville-style chicken sandwiches, sides and heaving share plates for anyone coming along with pals. There’s also a special canned cocktail, a Rakija and Tonic, created by the inner-west legends at Baba’s Place. The entire drinks menu is chock-full of Sydney hospitality icons and it’s staying that way.
El Primo Sanchez
Paddington
The legendary team behind The Maybe Group has opened a bar in Paddington. Cocktails are served in traditional handmade clay jarrito jugs while Mexican and Latino produce shine through each of the drinks. There is also a decent selection of agave spirits. The food menu skews more traditional Mexican than contemporary, ranging from lighter snacks like tacos through to more substantial but still informal dishes.
Beau
Surry Hills
NOMAD group has opened one section of a two-part venue, Beau & Dough—focused on the deep love of manoush. The all-day venue, Beau, led by head chef Ibrahim Kasif, offers manoush with savoury toppings of labne, spiced lamb, turkish sausage; or a sweet manoush topped with halva pistachio and honey. Breakfast manoush boards are served with tomato, cucumber, pickles, labneh, sheep’s milk feta, olives and broken eggs. Available from midday, the lunch menu includes a Blue Eye Trevalla fish burger; kofta wraps; spiced chicken shawarma; and a Middle Eastern chopped salad. Part two of the venue, Beau Bar will open on 24th, showcasing a wine-centric bar with a menu driven by fresh seafood. The food at Beau Bar will be fun and playful with a heavy focus on fresh seafood, and snacks to pair with the extensive beverage program.
Bar Lucia
Potts Point
Bar Lucia is a new Spanish wine bar and restaurant bringing Spain’s seductive dining scene to Potts Point. Inspired by the architecture of Madrid, expect a feminine atmosphere with ornamental decor, candelabras, art, and flower arrangements in the dining room. The food menu led by world-renowned chef, Alberto Palacios, will feature Latina American flavours with local produce. A few key menu highlights include Jamon Iberico Bellota Puro, roast sea scallops on the half shell with saffron butter, Ox tongue with salsa pintxo and salsa verde, and anchovies with salsa Spinader. The wine list is as equally impressive, with Australian wines taking centre stage, especially quality drops from NSW. The cocktail list is a combination of sweet, sour, and classic flavours. Lucia’s Cheesecake, which is a liquid version of her favourite dessert, is made with cheesecake-infused vodka, homemade jam and blueberry shrub.
Petermen
St Leonards
Dubbed, Petermen, the Nilands highlight the very best of Australian seafood and vegetables. The name is a nod to the 1400s vernacular, where fishers were known as Petermen in the tradition of their patron, Saint Peter. The menu includes a selection of items for the table, such as raw fish dishes. The preserved selection of the menu will feature fresh Australian seafood, cured and cooked in oil, such as Port Lincoln Berrima octopus and Espelette pepper. The mains are a range of must-haves, including Yellowfin Tuna Chateaubriand, garlic Warrigal greens, and Diane sauce. Brunch is an opportunity to re-introduce some of Josh’s favourites, such as St. Helens long spine sea urchin crumpet, the Ballina spanner crab croissant, and Manjimup Marron scrambled eggs. Some new ones include smoked Murray Cod bacon & maple pancakes and King George Whiting caesar salad. Book a table here.
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