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Discover the best restaurants in Sydney for 2025, with authentic Italian, Malaysian, Indonesian, and Turkish favourites that locals love.
Sydney has always been a place where food brings people together. Think cosy local cafés your neighbour swears by, or family-run kitchens that have kept the same recipes for generations, there’s something here for every taste.
If you’re hunting for great restaurants in Sydney, this guide picks five favourites locals love, each with its own vibe and must-try dishes.
From hearty Italian pasta and punchy Malaysian spices to homey Indonesian comfort food, smoky Turkish grills, and bright Mediterranean plates, these spots explain why Sydney still shines as a top dining city.
For a full list of handpicked restaurants in Sydney explore this guide and discover your next meal worth remembering.
Rating: 4.5 (based on 3,200+ Google reviews)
Address: 135 Crown St, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
Phone: (02) 9332 1129
Hours:
Mon–Sat: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Bar Reggio is classic Sydney Italian at its best. Tucked away in Darlinghurst, this family-run spot has been serving locals for decades. Known for its generous portions and comforting dishes, it feels less like eating out and more like enjoying a big, home-cooked meal.
Menu Highlights:
Local Reviews:
People talk about the busy, happy vibe and how big the meals are. Many say the team treats you like family. One loyal guest said, “The food never disappoints, and the pizzas taste just like the ones in Italy.”
Why locals love it:
Bar Reggio is friendly, filling, and fair in price. Families, students, and workers love coming back because it feels warm and real.
Rating: 4.3 (942 Google reviews)
Address: 5/66 Mountain St, Ultimo NSW 2007
Phone: (02) 8021 7069
Hours:
Mon–Sat: 12:00 PM – 8:45 PM
Sun: Closed
If you want true Malaysian food in Sydney, Malacca Straits is the spot. It’s small and cosy, loved by students from nearby unis and locals who enjoy bold flavours.
Menu Highlights:
Local Reviews:
“The service was quick and friendly,” says Theodor, a local guide. Another guest loved the laksa, calling it a “must-try,” though they noted it gets crowded at times.
Why locals love it:
Big portions, fair prices, and strong Malaysian flavours make this place perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Rating: 4.3 (1,163 Google reviews)
Address: Shop 3-4/299 Sussex St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 9264 1144
Hours:
Mon–Sat: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Sun: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Shalom is all about homestyle Indonesian food in the heart of Sydney. With a relaxed setting and bold taste, it’s a place where groups or families can enjoy a meal that feels like home.
Menu Highlights:
Local Reviews:
Rahmat Hashim praised the “authentic food and warm service,” even near closing time. Another diner said it felt just like eating back home in Indonesia, with good prices compared to Melbourne.
Why locals love it:
Affordable, tasty, and authentic. A favourite for students, expats, and anyone curious to try Indonesian food.
Rating: 4.1 (1,134 Google reviews)
Address: 179 Enmore Rd, Enmore NSW 2042
Phone: (02) 9557 0229
Hours:
Mon, Sun: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Tue–Sat: 11:00 AM – 2:00 AM
The Sultan’s Table is one of Sydney’s top Turkish spots. Set in Enmore, it’s known for both sit-down meals and late-night takeaway.
Menu Highlights:
Local Reviews:
“Fantastic Turkish takeaway! The Adana wrap was just as good as the mixed grill plate,” says Paul. Jason Luiz enjoyed the large portions and flavour, saying the mix of rice, chips, and meats was just right.
Why locals love it:
It’s affordable, tasty, and open late. Perfect for a quick snack or a big group dinner.
Rating: 4.4 (521 Google reviews)
Address: 215 Clarence St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: (02) 8033 7585
Hours:
Mon: Closed
Tue–Fri: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Sat: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Sun: Closed
Izgara is for those wanting a fine-dining take on Turkish food. With a cosy feel and modern touch, it’s great for date nights or special dinners.
Menu Highlights:
Local Reviews:
One guest said it was “the best food we had the whole trip,” praising the fresh taste. Another loved the service and called the eggplant dish “the best.”
Why locals love it:
Izgara gives Turkish food a modern style while keeping the heart of the flavours. Every dish feels special.
Sydney’s food scene in 2025 shows the city’s mix of cultures. From the comfort of Bar Reggio’s Italian meals to the bold taste of Malacca Straits, the homely flavours at Shalom, the late-night fun of The Sultan’s Table, and the fine touch at Izgara, every spot has its own story.
Eating out in Sydney isn’t only about the food. It’s about enjoying time with others, trying different flavors, and creating memories. If you’re choosing where to go next, these restaurants will make you feel welcome, satisfied, and excited to return.
Sydney Dining: What to Take Away
Sydney’s food scene in 2025 is more than just a reflection of the city’s rich cultural mix; it’s a celebration of diversity on every plate. From the comforting classics of Bar Reggio, where traditional Italian recipes are served with heart, to the bold, spicy kick of Malacca Straits and the nostalgic, home-style dishes at Shalom, each restaurant offers a taste of a different story. Add to that the late-night buzz and irresistible kebabs at The Sultan’s Table, or the elegant, fire-grilled perfection at Izgara, and you have a dining landscape that captures the true spirit of Sydney.
But eating out here isn’t only about what’s on the menu. It’s about the moments shared over a table, conversations that stretch long after dessert, the joy of discovering new flavours, and the memories made with friends and family. Whether you’re exploring a new cuisine or revisiting an old favourite, these restaurants promise warmth, satisfaction, and plenty of reasons to come back for more.
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