Sydney Harbour

Description:

This is the quintessential view of Sydney--a glorious panorama that takes in the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbor Bridge, Kirribilli House, Fort Denison and the Woolloomooloo dockyards. Mrs Macquarie's Point is the peninsula to the East of Farm Cove, just a little further along Art Gallery Road from the Domain, and adjacent to the Royal Botanic Gardens. Taking pride of place is Mrs Macquarie's chair itself--hand carved by convicts from sandstone in 1810 for Governor Macquarie's wife.

Description:

This historic Australian pub is tucked away in the colourful Woolloomooloo streets between the hectic Kings Cross and the bustling CBD. The building maintains its historic atmosphere even containing some sections originally laid by the settlers, however it still lends to a contemporary interior and upbeat vibe. The Old Fitzroy offers an excellent nights entertainment and food with live performances from some of Australia's up and coming actors and playwrights. Open for both lunch and dinner, you can expect the usual pub food and beers on offer here as well as a warm and friendly atmosphere.

129 Dowling Street, tel. 61 2 9356 3848

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Description:

Established in 1978, The Sydney Theater Company has been producing theatrical productions for many years and has striven to promote this art form in Australia. This production house now has a new venue near Walsh Bay. This venue is not all that big and has a seating capacity of 324. So it is advised to check the local listings or the website for more details and book in advance. Parking is available but is limited at the moment due to construction at Walsh Bay. Tickets can be brought online or from the STC Box Office.

Description:

Tucked away below the Opera House concourse lies one of the best beer gardens in the world. Situated directly on the harbour with dazzling views of the ocean and stunning views of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, you simply can't beat this location. However the bar isn't just all about the sights, it also offers a list of over 40 wines, as well as a host of international and local spirits. The spirit of Sydney is alive at the Opera House, a friendly, relaxed atmosphere paired with live bands and DJ's, make for a memorable night. It's open to all styles of functions, from cocktail parties to large events such as New Years eve and serves a superb selection of modern Australian cuisine.

Lower Concourse Level, Sydney, tel. 61 2 9247 1666

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Description:

Seating 1,547, this is home of the renowned Opera Australia and Australian Ballet. With an outstanding repertoire of both new and old, both companies stage several productions, running on consecutive night, around four times per year. The theater has a wooden ceiling, which enhances the acoustics. It has a proscenium stage and a screen above it onto which English subtitles can be projected for performances sung in their original language.

Our Local Expert Says:

The true home of Sydney indie music, run by the erstewhile Paul McCarthy. Pretty much every rock band in Sydney got their first break here, and there continues to be live music 7 nights a week, most of it very good. Very highly recommended.

Description:

Known to locals as "The Hoey", this relaxed hotel offers varying types of live bands which are generally good quality, original acts. The service, atmosphere and bands are inoffensive. Come to play pool, listen to a good band or have a quick drink. The decor is as close to a big comfortable lounge room as you can get, remembering you are in a bar. Looking for a casual drink or want the hang out whilst listening to a quality band, this place is for you.

Description:

Overlooking the magnificent Sydney Harbour, the Dendy Opera Quays comprise three state-of-the-art cinemas, Dolby Digital sound systems and luxurious seating. For an enjoyable experience, sit back and relax with popcorn and a soda from the refreshment stand. For film times, ticket prices and further information, please call or see their website.

Our Local Expert Says:

A venerable establishment that's hosted many jazz greats over the years. Things have got a little more mainstream of late: there's a lot of groove and the gentler edges of hip hop to be found nowadays. Still a great place to sink an expensive beer, and catch some kids from the conservatorium, playing in their quite-good band.

Description:

Mentioning jazz and Sydney in the one sentence usually means The Basement. This esteemed institution has been around for decades, and still packs them in six or seven nights a week with an eclectic mix of acts, both local and international. Consider this gig list from yesteryear: Dizzy Gillespie, Herbie Hancock, Art Pepper, and more recently, Prince, Keith Urban and Tim Finn.
This CBD venue has undergone a few changes over time, and its latest incarnation still retains those moody jazz hues. Blue Note album covers and signed posters of notable crooners still adorn the walls.
Most shows offer a 2-course cabaret-style dinner in advance; handy when seats and tickets are a premium. The food is not special - salads or pate starters, steak, pasta or chicken mains. If a formal seated dinner is not your thing, the quick and easy bistro offers stand up bar bites, like nachos, burgers, antipasti plates or crumbed seafood. But you're not exactly here for the culinary experience.
On matters liquid, lubricate with quirky cocktails like the Parker Up Charlie, Billie's Holiday and Round Midnight, or one of the many boutique beers available.
Whether it's blues, folk or funk you're after,... read more

Description:

Tucked in-between terraces and flats in a converted leather factory, the Belvoir Street Theater has long presented a range of intelligent works, both classical and contemporary. The performances often star well-known Australian actors, playing in either "Company B", upstairs, or "B Sharp", downstairs, presenting more fringe-style theater. There is a fun foyer bar for before, during or after performance drinks. The Belvoir Theater is a favorite with the hip and groovy crowd.

Description:

Australia's leading contemporary art museum, popularly known as the MCA, occupies an art deco building in the heart of the tourism sector at Circular Quay. The museums temporary exhibition program draws upon sources throughout the world and is supported by lectures, films and special events. Exhibitions change each season. There is also a cafe and shop featuring a range of art and merchandise inspired by Australia's top designers. Admission is free.

Our Local Expert Says:

Very central, with some great rooms and stunning views.

Description:

The Hilton's location is a big draw card right in the midst of all the city action. The Sydney Hilton has five bars to enjoy including the Pool Bar (summer only), The Americas Cup Bar, featuring sporting events on big TV screens and the historic Marble Bar, an extravaganza of 15th century Italian Renaissance with its own gallery and live music Wednesday to Saturday.

Description:

Dating from 1871, and located at its present site overlooking Woolloomooloo Bay since 1885, this is one of Australia's premier art institutions. The buzz when one enters the building is truly palpable-visitors come, enjoy and do not want to leave. The permanent collection includes Australian, European, Asian and contemporary art. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works on display in the Yiribana Gallery are totally unsurpassed. There is also an exciting and diverse temporary exhibition program. Admission: Free; charges apply for some temporary exhibitions.

Description:

Beppi's has been in Sydney since 1956. The Italian restaurant has retained the flavours and recipes and is known for classic entrees and desserts. The seafood preparations deserve a special mention for authenticity and flavour. Alas, the place seems to have also retained the 50's attitude. Patrons are known to have been disgusted by tardy service and indifference by the apathetic staff. But there are those who have had a wonderful time as well. On the whole, Beppi's is a lovely place to dine and celebrate, provided the stars are in your favour.

Our Local Expert Says:

Perhaps Sydney's most famous restaurant, consistently recognized as one of the world's top ten restaurants in international polls.

Description:

If you want to eat here, and you are already in Sydney, good luck! It books out months in advance. 3 star Michelin chef, Tetsuya Wakuda, is a maestro, and is Australia's most garlanded chef. His award winning restaurant is a fusion of French and Japanese and offers a single degustation menu (ten courses). The menu changes from time to time and offers such specialties as slow-cooked trout, seared scallops, venison and quail. Corkage fees apply and it is also fully licensed.

Description:

InterContinental Sydney is an absolute expression of luxury, located on the edge of the world's most stunning harbour just a moments walk from the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Set in breath-taking 19th Century architecture, the hotel's 509 guest rooms each offer stunning Sydney views alogn with exquisite amenities and services. If it is food that captures your attention Cafe Opera and Cortile are located within the hotel right on the edge of Sydney Harbour. Blending style and heritage with an essence of sophistication helps this hotel continue to be ranked among some of the best in Sydney.

117 Macquarie Street, tel. 61 2 9253 9000

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Our Local Expert Says:

A clean and fashionable place, great for business visitors who want to do something with their evening - close to the clubs, bars, restaurants and cinemas of Sydney's thriving cultural heart.

Description:

Cosmopolitan cities need chic, architect-designed, cutting edge hotels. Said properties should offer iconic status, glamour and opulence in equal measure. Exclusivity need never be requested, but discretely assumed.
The Kirketon, after starting life in 1999 as a cool, stark, minimalist boutique hotel, was acquired by 8Hotels in 2003 and underwent its latest incarnation. The result is a warmer, more sophisticated property that evokes the luxurious feel reminiscent of grand European hotels, but with a nod to 21st century tastes and technology.
The 40 rooms are divided into four styles: Standard, Premium, Executive and Superior; each a step up in bed size, floor space, facilities, price and finishes.
Outside on the Darlinghurst streets, you're spoilt for culinary, bar and nightlife choices. But if you're finding it hard to leave the luxury of the Kirketon behind, you can always slip out back to the in-house, award winning Eau de Vie bar; it's class with a capital C.

Description:

Few cities have such an iconic building as Sydney's Opera House Sure, New York has the Empire State, Rome the Pantheon, Athens has the Acropolis, but for out and out modernity, mixed with breathtaking geography, those off-white billowing sails perched on Bennelong Point have to be one of the great studies of architecture in the 20th century.
Designed by the Danish architect, Jorn Utzon, after the NSW state government conducted a worldwide competition in the late 50s, the $10m original budget soon blew out to more than $100m when it finally opened in 1973. Utzon fell out with the political overseers of the day and quit the project, long before completion.
Though referred to as an opera house, it stages a host of different performance types, including, classical and pop concerts, drama, ballet, comedy, films, talks, and has an exhibition space.
Today it's the cities No 1 tourist draw card and probably the most photographed site in the country. Guided tours (in multiple languages) take you through the labyrinthine innards, including backstage glimpses of some of the theaters.
There are a host of fine eateries and outdoor bars along the forecourt. Twilight in summer, with the sun setting,... read more

Description:

The Royal Botanic Gardens makes up 30 hectares of parkland wrapping around Farm Cove. Ponds, walking paths, swimming pools, native plants and feature gardens make up most of this gorgeous parkland. Along the way you will also see a number of historic heritage listed structures and buildings which help add to the Sydney history and experience. Some other highlights include the Pyramid Glasshouse, Herb Garden, Fernery, and Rose Garden. It's impossible not to wan to explore the park in its entirety as it offers so much. The view Opera House and Harbor Bridge from Mrs Macquarie's Chair is a site to behold. The park also offers free admission and guided walking tours daily.

Mrs Macquaries Road, tel. 61 2 9231 8111

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Our Local Expert Says:

You can't help but see it, and that's no bad thing, because it's beautiful.

Description:

Building the Harbour Bridge was a big deal back in the 20s and 30s, when it was being planned - half of Sydney's oldest and most historic area, the Rocks, had to be bulldozed, and that was just a start. Sydney needed its bridge: up til then it had gotten by with the dozens of ferries to-ing and fro-ing from the populous northside over to Sydney proper. And what a bridge it got, the spectacular 'Coat Hanger' (as the locals know it), as seen on a billion postcards.

Description:

Sydney Harbour National Park is home to a number of islands and foreshore areas around one of the world's most famous harbours. The park is home to some superb swimming spots, bushwalking tracks and picnic areas, offering a huge range of activities that will have you coming back time and time again. With a number of different locations to visit scattered around the Sydney Harbour you will always have something new to discover. It is divided into seven parts including three harbour islands. Among the beautiful parks, beaches and bush-walking are dozens of historic landmarks you can explore, like Fort Denison, the historic Quarantine Station and the former open-air prison, Pinchgut Island.

tel. 1300 361 967

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Description:

Chef and co-owner Hassan M'souli has been providing Sydneysiders with classic Moroccan dishes for over ten years. Carved masks and shields adorn the bright yellow walls. On balmy summer days the doors slide back for a touch of seaside atmosphere mingled with the African influences. Popular with groups, it can get quite noisy. Bissara (broad bean dip) is very popular, as are the Sardines with Harissa, and Chicken Tajine with Olives and Preserved Lemons. There is an array of couscous dishes with chicken or vegetables.

Description:

Owner and Chef Aziz Bakalla comes from Spanish Morocco. His background is certainly reflected in the combination of tapas and classic Moroccan fare served here. The decor is simple and there is a friendly atmosphere. The clientele is a mix of locals and visitors to Manly. Moroccan specialties include pigeon pie and couscous. You will also find some fresh salads and other meat dishes often using chicken.

Description:

Sydney Harbour National Park is home to a number of islands and foreshore areas around one of the world's most famous harbours. The park is home to some superb swimming spots, bushwalking tracks and picnic areas, offering a huge range of activities that will have you coming back time and time again. With a number of different locations to visit scattered around the Sydney Harbour you will always have something new to discover. It is divided into seven parts including three harbour islands. Among the beautiful parks, beaches and bush-walking are dozens of historic landmarks you can explore, like Fort Denison, the historic Quarantine Station and the former open-air prison, Pinchgut Island.

tel. 1300 361 967

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Our Local Expert Says:

The Taronga Zoo is excellent. DO IT! (And they're kind to their animals too).

Description:

Catching the ferry over from Circular Quay for a day at the Zoo is one of the delights of living in Sydney. For surely there is no urban zoo with quite as spectacular a setting as this one, sited on a headland that juts out into the harbor. Catching that ferry can be one of the delights of visiting Sydney, too. For a starter, the collection of Australian animals here is great: all the critters you'd expect - kangaroos and koalas and so forth. And that's just to start, because the zoo also homes all the excellent international beasts a soul could hope for : the elephants and the zebras and the lions and the hippos and turtles and snakes and the weird legless lizards and lemurs and gorillas (they're SO big)...

It's simply a splendid place to bring kids. Or adults.

Our Local Expert Says:

An undiscovered gem - great vegetarian fare in one of the best locations in the city.

Description:

Bohdi Café is a gem - a total surprise, tucked away underneath busy Central Station. It is not the nicest place in the world to eat, but you can buy takeaways and take them to the park across the road. Bohdi are wonderful, with a varied menu of 100% vegan Chinese food good enough to impress even the most blood-thirsty carnivore to the pleasure of Tofu and rice!

Description:

For over thirty years the Summit has been a Sydney institution, officially opened by Sir Edmund Hillary in 1968. It was re-opened in November 1998 after a four-month refurbishment. Situated one hundred and sixty five metres above Sydney Harbour, as the world's largest revolving restaurant, it is the perfect place to view Sydney on a clear day. One can view the vista and sample the menu, which comprises a selection of 'Summit Classics' such as King Prawn Cocktail, Smoked Salmon Mousse and Duckling à l'orange.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great views of busy Darlinghurst Road and up into the Cross, meals come as deals with a movie. Much recommended.

Description:

You can't go wrong at Govinda's, especially if you go for the movie and meal deal… this place has a very good Hare Krishna buffet - short of gourmet, for sure - but which can be seriously addictive. The situation is functional, so don't come here if you are looking for intimate dining. However, they do have a cinema, which involves lots of cushions and lying about on the floor. The movies are usually a couple of months out of cinema, but they sometimes golden oldies too.

Our Local Expert Says:

Coming equipped with deliciously camp wait staff, this is an Oxford Street classic.

Description:

This big farmhouse-style kitchen, with wide, dark polished floorboards, high ceilings and wooden tables is a comforting, homey spot in the middle of the frenetic, Oxford Street clubbing strip. As well as fresh, wholesome soups like Potato and Pumpkin, Carrot and Ginger, Gazpacho, and Cold Potato and Leek, choose from Pasta, nourishing Nachos, and staples like Lamb Stew, Fish Fingers and Bangers and Mash. There is a great salad bar--a mixed combo worth a sampling.

Our Local Expert Says:

Expensive…. Nonetheless a Sydney institution, no doubt because of its peerless location.

Description:

Doyle's is a byword in Sydney - everyone knows where it is, and almost everyone has eaten there, despite the hefty prices. But you get the best, and the location is hard to beat for laidback ambience, situated on the harbor away from the business of the city centre. Reserve a beachside table so you can enjoy the view.

Description:

Sushi Suma is always packed with locals in the know, who flock here for the relatively cheap and uniformly excellent Japanese cuisine on offer. Whilst outside is busy and unlovely Cleveland Street, inside is an oasis of olfactory and degustational pleasure. Squash yourself in at the sushi bar--it is tiny--and watch the sushi master at work. On offer you will find tasty morsels such as egg rolls, California rolls, squid, eel and salmon. Freshly made, they also do sashimi, tempura and green tea ice cream.

Description:

Badde Manors is a great one for a break on a hot, glary Sydney day, with great baristas making your favorite coffee and classic, fresh Australian café food - and there are lots of vege and vegan options amongst the generally healthy selection of dishes on offer. It's a good spot to just sit and watch people, set on a busy corner in Glebe, and filled with the overflow from Sydney University, which is just a stone's throw away.

Our Local Expert Says:

The cart is open late, so any late night snackers can rejoice.

Description:

Harry's is not gourmet, but it makes no pretense to be. It has been docked right by the water on Woolloomooloo pier for over 70 years, and has served many celebrities over the years. Their stated aim: to develop and maintain the quality and original flavour of 1945 for the enjoyment of today's increasingly discerning consumers. They are open late, and are a handy place to know about if you are in the area and craving a pie. Grab yourself a pie and dangle your legs over the edge of the docks, along with half of Sydney's cab drivers.

Cowper Wharf Roadway, tel. 61 2 9211 2506

Trent van der Jagt, Sydney Local Expert

Description:

Ok. So the MCA Cafe has seriously good views, fronting right onto Sydney Harbour and across to Circular Quay and the Sydney Opera House. Sitting here you know you're in Sydney. You will be surrounded by businessmen and old money-types, but it's well worth stopping off here if you are feeling footsore. Conveniently, it is located in the same building as the excellent Museum of Contemporary Art, which has revolving exhibitions. The MCA café is run by local celebrity chef Neil Perry (he does the in-flight food for Qantas - what more do you need to know?).The MCA Cafe primarily serves seafood dishes of various sorts, but does venture into risottos, pastas, and Mediterranean cuisine. If you are sitting on the terrace it seems most appropriate to be dining on tuna steak or spaghetti and clams.

Our Local Expert Says:

One of Sydney's best known restaurants, this place has been named Australian restaurant of the year. They're seriously good at Thai cooking. Surprisingly, the head chef is a skippy (Australian slang for of Anglo-Irish descent).

Description:

Longrain is seriously hip, located between happening Surry Hills and the CBD. With very modern decor, and long tables (don't expect private tete-a-tete!) it boasts some of the best Thai in Sydney. The food is not the cheapest that you will find, but it is impeccable - the best and freshest ingredients prepared expertly and with love; it is widely considered to be one of the best Thai restaurants outside of the Kingdom of Thailand itself. There are no dinner bookings, and diners are asked to wait at the bar. It all happens in a large airy renovated space and is as cool as Sydney comes. Bookings are available only for lunch. And if are in Melbourne and want a touch of Longrain, step in at 44 Little Bourke Street; yes it is yet another Longrain sibling for you!