The Best Restaurants in Circular Quay

While not your typical restaurant recommendation, if it’s a unique experience you’re after, look no further than Captain Cook Cruises, where dinner doubles as a cultural immersion. Whether you set sail on a 3-course Harbour View Long Lunch, High Tea at Sea or the ever-popular Sunset Dinner Cruise — it’s the perfect way to see Sydney and enjoy the charm of the city’s foreshores and historic sites. 

Perched on the mezzanine level of the luxurious Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, Q Dining is a stylish modern Australian restaurant with a focus on indigenous spices. Inspired by the waterfront location, the decor seamlessly blends sleek glass and steel accents with contemporary design. As for the menu, expect fresh, local flavours elevated by native ingredients, for a dining experience with a true taste of Sydney. 

Known and loved for its steamed and fried dumplings, Lotus Dumpling Bar is the perfect spot for a laid-back, yet high-end dining experience. Just like the name suggests, the star of the menu is the dumpling, with a filling for every craving — pork, shiitake mushrooms, five-spice tofu, prawn, you name it. And to go with little pockets of joy, there’s a carefully curated list of whites and reds, as well as contemporary cocktails to match making it a great restaurant to visit in Circular Quay. 

One step into The Spice Room will transport you straight to India, with aromatics wafting through the air, vibrant decoration and warm hospitality. The menu draws inspiration from the five elements of existence — Earth, Fire, Air, Water and Ether — to ignite and satisfy all five senses. There’s much to choose from, but the Tandoori is a stand-out, with delicious, smoky vegetables and meats grilled on hot charcoal in a clay oven. After some takeaway? Try a tiffin box, a traditional lunch set delivered daily by Dabbawallas across Mumbai. 

Who can resist a traditional, sugar-sweet crepe? Four Frogs Creperie is Sydney's one-stop shop for the full French experience, using traditional techniques to bring authentic Parisian flavours to every bite. Everything is crafted in-house — the sauces, milkshakes, and even the buckwheat flour — and each crepe and galette is freshly made to order with the best ingredients. Happiness served on a plate! 

Neptune Palace brings a touch of regal elegance to Sydney’s Circular Quay. While famous for its fresh seafood, the menu also features a wide selection of authentic Chinese and Malaysian halal dishes, from sizzling stir-fries to fragrant curries. Just steps from Circular Quay and a short walk to the Sydney Opera House, Neptune Palace is the ideal choice for a family meal, dinner with friends, or when you’re simply looking for a taste of something truly special. 

Once a hidden gem turned local favourite, Mary’s Underground is the go-to spot for a meal with a side of live music, with gigs on every night except Sunday. The restaurant serves classic French bistro fare, while at the Clam Bar, you can indulge in wine, freshly shucked oysters, and a selection of seasonal seafood. For something more casual (and kinder on the wallet), head upstairs to Mary’s Circular Quay for a juicy burger — with a vegan option available too! 

Some antipasti to start, followed by a steaming bowl of pasta, a cheesy slice of pizza (or two), and of course, a refreshing Aperol in hand. Sounds tempting? Well, that’s exactly what awaits you at Bar Ombre, a rooftop oasis perched atop the bustling Gateway Building. From Monday to Wednesday, enjoy Aperitivo Hours — $12 spritz, anyone? — and on Fridays, a lively soirée with all your favourite R&B tunes. Come for the food, stay for the vibes! 

Finishing off with an iconic Sydney venue, the Opera Bar is touted as "the best beer garden in the world," and for good reason. The craft beer selection, lively atmosphere, waterfront vibes — what’s not to love? Not to mention the unbeatable location overlooking Sydney's sparkling harbour and city skyline, which makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a day exploring the city or working hard at the office.