Luxury Accommodation and Dining

What better way to enhance any stay than with some of the best luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney. Our ultimate Sydney itinerary has all the information you need on how to get around the city and what the climate is like throughout the year. Being the capital of New South Wales, you are spoilt for options of luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney. You may even say these are some of the finest accommodations and restaurants on offer in Australia.

Many have been regarded as the best hotels in Sydney with sweeping views of the harbour, some can boast showcasing the magnificent icons of the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Whilst the restaurants chosen, truly represent the best of fine dining in Sydney.

We have included our favourite places to stay and dine, when in Sydney. We are also delighted to include, restaurants and hotels friends and family have recommended. In addition to thorough scrutiny of the reviews left by customers of a some establishments on the “DO” List…yes I put my researchers hat on for you with this one.

For the purposes of this article I have split Sydney into 4 distinct area for ease of navigating. These are the City Centre, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, and Circular Quay – Harbour. All the areas are within comfortable walking distances between, alternatively there are a few transport options.

*Disclosure: We may have affiliate links with one or more of these companies mentioned & may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosures for further information.

Preview – Best Luxury Hotels and Fine Dining in Sydney

Our preview, briefly highlights the areas for the luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney, that have been chosen…When planning, any itinerary, including some special nights out, or enjoying a variety of eateries, is something that makes a trip. 

4. Darling Harbour – west of the city centre, this area offers some of the newest luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney  boardwalks, nature reserves, aquariums, wildlife, and museums by foot .
5. The Rocks – the area of the first colonial settlement and the south end of the iconic Harbour Bridge, with abundant waterfront dining and historical buildings.

Our pre-travel checklists, are the first step to start your independent travelling. Letting you relax and enjoy some of the best luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney knowing, everything’s been ticked off the list.

Checklists for:

• Before you travel
• organising travel essentials
• when to start dreaming and booking
• right up to the day before and walking out the door

Sydney Hotels 

You will find some Australias best luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney, that can add to any luxury itinerary. However, it is exceedingly difficult to choose. That said, if you belong to one of the membership programs such as Hilton Honor, ALL – Accor Live Limitless, IHG or similar. We recommend to always look first what your memberships offer. That way you are able to take full advantage of your chosen rewards programs, collecting points along the way.

Alternatively, Booking.com, or Hotels.com are a great options for finding the best 5 star hotels in Sydney. Allowing you to add filters for many preferences, hotel ratings and luxury level (4-5 Star Hotel) are just two options. Whilst we recommend looking to see the hotels your preferred group has to offer, first. These two booking sites also have their own programs that we recommend you join if you use regularly.

Alternatively, choose from the selection of best luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney we have either frequented or reviewed for you.

Sydney Restaurants 

You will find some of the best fine dining restaurants in Sydney. You are spoilt for choice with fine dining in Sydney, with come of the top chefs in the world, opting to open restaurants in this fair city. We offer you choices from some of the best luxury restaurants in Sydney. However, all hotels highlighted in this guide have exceptional restaurants and you can’t go wrong making a reservation during your stay at one of them…at least once.

Whenever we are creating luxury travel itineraries, we always look for restaurants, that have an inviting menu (dining and bar), comfortable and sumptious space (depending on the occasion).  We also greatly recommend you book before arriving in Sydney to avoid disappointment. Additionally, we recommend you use the restaurant websites when booking (links provided). 

Reviewing Restaurants

We always recommend when choosing a restaurant to check the websites for current opening hours, menus and any special requirements. It is also recommended to look at reviews, some common opinions for each restaurant has been included in our selection. I personally do this with an open mind as should we all and know one person experience and expectations can be different to another. I also check the reviews are in the past 6-12 months. This timeframe allows for the most current information. Due to limited information on many of the review sites, only Expedia and Tripadvisor have been used.

The review process is the same for finding the best hotels in Sydney. Through other reputable sites and seven have been included in the round up to ensure the best luxury hotels and fine dining in Sydney is chosen.

Sydney City Areas

Source: Wiki Media Commons

City/Circular Quay

The city centre covers

Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Sydney

Sumptuous accommodations, behind the veil of heritage architecture and sandstone façade, once home to the first bank of Australia and Fairfax newspaper. This is one of the perfect examples of luxury accommodation in Sydney, especially for luxury escapes. A short distance to Circular Quay, the Royal Botanic gardens and icon sites of Sydney. Whilst also being central to many luxury restaurants, bars and shopping areas of QVB, which is a gorgeous building on its own and worth a wander.

Enjoy one of the luxurious spacious rooms on offer, tastefully decorated and beautiful marble features within the bathrooms. Whilst staying take breakfast in the Lady Fairfax room, enjoy a coffee at The Fax bar, which also hosts a high tea in the afternoon, enjoy a pre-dinner drink or settle in at the bar for snacks. Ahhh and the Bentley, one of fine dining in Sydney CBD, covering two floors for casual or formal dining, but more about that below…

Source: Radisson Blu Media Centre

Intercontinental Sydney

The hotel is situated nestled within the restored Treasury building another example of the luxury hotels in Sydney. Built in 1851 the heritage façade is rich itself with historical significance. The rooms and suites above boast a stylish décor, rising above the skyline. Many offering views of not only the harbour but the Royal Botanic Gardens a short distance away.

Offering an ideallic location close to Circular Quay, boasting a rooftop bar and restaurant on the 32nd floor, with expansive views of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Royal Botanic Gardens. The Treasury bar is situated, inside the 170 façade within the heart of the hotel, offering lunch, dinner and drinks at the bar.

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Website (IHG) – 4.4/5.0 (2,870)
• Booking.com – 8.2/10.0 (2,301)
• Expedia – 8.6/10.0 (1,000)
• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (5,678)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• ideal location
• spectacular views, excellent service & facilities
• spacious, nicely renovated rooms
• friendly, attentive staff

As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, lack of communication, toiletry bottles empty, rude staff, renovations noisy.

Sir Stamford at Circular Quay

The hotel is partially situated in a heritage listed site, built in the late 1800’s. With decor to suite the period, whilst offering the modern conveniences. Featuring one of the largest private collections of fine art in Australia, including 18th Century Louis XV and Georgian pieces. The rooms are generously sized and suites (15) are available, many with juliette balconies. Some suites offer views of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

The main dining room is open to guest for breakfast. The Highland Whisky bar is the place to be, with a fine selection of Whisky, offering dinner 7 days. The Sir Stamford is also known for the exceptional High Tea is on offer Saturdays and Sundays. We found this hotel offered fantastic location and easy walk to Circular Quay and the Opera House. With Royal Botanic Gardens as it’s back yard only a 2 min stroll to enter the gardens.

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Agoda – 8.8/10.0 (948)
• Booking.com – 8.3/10.0 (2,779)
• Expedia – 9.2/10.0 (1,001)
• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (4,848)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location
• excellent service & facilities
• spacious rooms, Victorian feel, modern functionality
• extremely friendly, professional staff

As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, lack of communication & service, room quality poor, rude staff, in need of maintenance.

Restaurants

O Bar and Dining

Take a ride Level 47 Australia Square for some of the most stunning 360° views around Sydney, from your seat. Whether you Take a seat on the podium or up close and personal at the window (these need to be booked) to enjoy the delectable à la carte menu of the restaurant or at the lounge bar for drinks with or without tapas. You won’t be disappointed the food and attentive staff are amazing.v I did love that even the bread was an O…

Book one of the experiences on offer for dining in the restaurant including private dining with butler service. There are also two specially designed spaces for a more private experiences or events. The Dress Circle or the ultimate in private dining the Salon Privé.

Alternatively, a lounge bar experience, with  guaranteed window seat… an amazing way to start or finish an evening. To be honest I would love to sit in the lounge bar and just have the signature stands and cocktails as the world passes by…

O Bar and Dining, offer a plant based tasting menu and plant based options on the menu.

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/2023

• Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (1,226) $$$$
• Google –  4.4/5.0 (4,097) $$$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location, stunning views
• excellent – outstanding service
• fantastic selection of wines, delicious food
• extremely friendly, professional staff

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, disappointing service, food average quality, view ordinary due to new building & limited menu.

O Bread…Delicious Start 

Bistecca

Accessed by a back street of Sydney, venturing under Sydney’s CBD, Bistecca offers three distinct places to enjoy traditional Tuscan hospitality and food. Whether it’s a Negorni as you enter the wood panelled cocktail bar, or entering the intimate dining area with the traditional Bistecca butcher’s block and open hearth. For a more private affair, the bottled lined wine room is perfect.

Bistecca alla Fiorentina, the specialty of the house and the region of Tuscany, is the only main course. Traditionally using beef from Chianina, the largest breed of cattle in the world, which is sourced from the Riverine area.

This truly is an exceptional experience for steak lovers, cut and presented to the table before being served in the traditional way (medium rare, seasoned with S&P, and olive oil) with rustic sides. Accompany your steak with an Italian or Italian style wines a match made in heaven.  It does not stop there, this meal (if you can eat more) is followed by the traditional tiramisu, panna cotte or an affogato…

Be warned phones are locked away…take a camera for food photos…

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (119) $$$$
• Google –  4.7/5.0 (1,033) $$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• Very cool ambience, great lighting, most outstanding dining experience
• excellent – amazing service
• fantastic wines, must try for steak lovers
• extremely friendly staff

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, disappointing service, poor steak quality, & noisy & expensive.

Bentley Restaurant + Bar

This exceptional restaurant started out in a former pub in Surry Hills, with chef Brent Savage and sommelier Nick Hildebrandt at the helm. Earning a name for itself as one of Australia top restaurants. The Bentley now makes it’s home in the Radisson Blu Hotel, with it’s grand façade and contemporary interiors.

Be greeted by a divine décor, described as industrial chic, combined with an inspiring menu, which is paired with an equally impressive wine list. It’s truly one of the best restaurants in Sydney and not to missed. Diners are guaranteed a superb luxury experience. If you are looking for something more intimate, the Bentley offers semi private spaces and private dining rooms throughout the restaurant. that became a huge success for it’s food and wine.

Bentley Restaurant and Bar offer a vegan tasting menu and vegan options on the menu.

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (524) $$$$
• Google –  4.4/5.0 (691) $$$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location
• great experience (degustation menus)
• fantastic selection of wines, magnificent cuisine
• service reviewed as attentive, friendly, helpful & professional

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, long waiting time, disappointing service, food not pleasant (degustation menu).

Aria Sydney

Aria has been one of Sydney’s finest restaurants for over twenty years, opening in 1999, brainchild of Matt Moran, continuing today with Peter Sullivan and the Aria team to offer one of the finest dining experiences in Sydney. With a prime position front and centre overlooking Sydney Harbour and her iconic views. Whilst not all tables have a view of Sydney’s icons, you won’t be disappointed by the food and service.

Together with Matt Moran the Aria team create seasonal menus, honouring Australia’s local produce sourced from some of the finest suppliers in the country. Choose from a specially designed tasting menu, showcasing the finest seasonal produce (to be shared by the whole table. Alternatively, the À la carte (available lunch & dinner) or pre-theatre (available till 18:00) menus have an absolutely stunning array of choices, for you to create your own tasting menu.

Aria Sydney offer vegetarian options on the menu.

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (3,111) $$$$
• Google –  4.5/5.0 (1,779) $$$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• stunning views of the harbour, great location
• spectacular experience and  service
• makes my tastebuds smile, exceptional food faultless flavours
• attentive, friendly, staff, always available

As with any restaurant review, not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, bad attitude of staff, food overrated, views promised not visible for every table.

Darling Harbour

Hotels

Sofitel Darling Harbour

Note: As ALL-Accor members we always look at their hotel first, due to the great rewards we get from the program.

Situated in Darling Harbour this is a great option if you are attending an event within the Darling Harbour precinct. Directly across from the ICC Sydney (International Convention & Exhibition Centre). In addition to being in walking distance to Darling Square, the museums around Darling harbour and Barangaroo.

It is one of the best Sydney hotels featuring within, the Atelier by Sofitel, some of the best fine dining Sydney has offer. Where local produce (where available) is showcased creating food inspired by the South of France. On the same level you will find the Champagne Bar, with it’s amazing selection of Champagne, Sparkling & Still wines, Cocktails, Beer, Cider and Spirits. In addition to a small plates/snack menu. On the ground floor opposite reception is the  Esprit Noir Lobby Bar, great to meet up before heading out, as well as serving fantastic coffee in the morning.

Many of the rooms overlook Darling Harbour with views of the city in the foreground. As one of the newer hotels around Sydney, all the rooms have a sumptuous décor and are quite spacious.   

Club Millésime the signature club of the Sofitel brand is on the 35th floor, which can be accessed with select rooms. The club is also able to be accessed as Platinum members of ALL-Accor, no matter the type of room you book. Club access includes, buffet breakfast, le gouter & apero chic.

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Website (ALL Accor) – 4.5/5.0 (8,550)
• Booking.com – 8.5/10.0 (5,817)
• Expedia – 8.8/10.0 (1,001)
• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (2,745)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• great location, fantastic view
• luxurious feel
• high quality accommodation
• great staff polite, & friendly

As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was poor communication with staff, slow room service & poor service.

Crown Towers – Sydney

Opening in Dec 2020, the towers sit on what was once a bustling maritime district of the early settlement of Sydney Harbour. Though even before colonisation, the site and ocean played an important part for the idigenous people. Where women would paddle out to catching fish and collect shellfish, Barangaroo is named for one such woman. An integral part of the indigenous community and key figure to the area at the time of colonisation.  

Today it is the site of one of Sydney’s the newest luxury hotels, offering sweeping views of the icons of Sydney harbour from the sky deck (reservations are essential). Lavish ammenties and signature 5 star restaurants fill the opulent hotel. Sumptuous rooms and luxurious decor are combined with innovative technology, to offer exceptional experiences for all that visit. 

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Google – 4.4/5.0 (496)
• Booking.com – 8.8/10.0 (256)
• Agoda – 8.9/10.0 (13)
• Tripadvisor – 3.5/5.0 (229)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• good/ideal location
• beautiful & grand decor
• very luxurious, stunning accommodation
• amazing customer service, staff helpful & friendly

 As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was rude staff, long check-in, some facilities in room not working.

Restaurants

Cirrus

Being one of the first restaurants on the waterfront of Barangaroo. This delightful restaurant is, another of the Bentley Group, which is a name synonymous with offering fine flavourful food and exceptional wine. Positioned in a place that offers views of the western side of the harbour. Enjoy the splendid views of Goat Island, Pyrmont Bridge and Darling Harbour from your seat, whilst enjoying a delectable meal.

Cirrus offers some of the finest seafood menu’s in Sydney that will make your mouth sing. Deliciously designed menus of chef Brent Savage, paying homage to the sea, paired with over 30 exceptional wines chosen by sommelier Nick Hildebrandt. Is a match made in heaven and a wonderful way to spend a day or evening. Whilst no private rooms are available larger sized groups can be catered for in the main restaurant.

Cirrus offers a vegan  menu as one of it’s options.

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (379) $$$$
• Google –  4.3/5.0 (848) $$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly moderate accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location, nice vibe
• excellent – fabulous  service
• fantastic wines, great tasting menu
• great, friendly, & professional staff

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, no customer service, food service slow, ordinary food, & menu on website didn’t reflect menu given.

Source: Sydney.com

Oncore by Clare Smyth

This stunning restaurant is situated in Crown Sydney and one of the newest fine dining restaurants in Sydney. Overlooking breathtaking views Sydney Harbour, with the Harbour Bridge the prime view. The first and only international restaurant by three Michelin star chef Clare Smyth. Featuring a classic selection of dishes from Core, Clare Smyth’s London restaurant, your taste buds are set to be ‘wowed’. In addition to dishes honouring classic Sydney flavours, drawing from the local area and fresh produce.

Offering menus for lunch, dinner and around the bar, your taste buds will be tantalized. With all menus featuring the signature ‘Core’ Apple a spin off, from the humble toffee apple. If it’s a premium dining experience you are looking for Oncore offers a Chef’s table right in front of the kitchen. Alternatively, a semi-private dining room at the end of the restaurant is available, where you can be served the tasting menu and views of Sydney Harbour. Tis is Sydney fine dining at it’s best…

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (17)
• Google –  4.4/5.0 (182) $$$$

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly moderate to high accolades, by limited reviews. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location, stunning views
• excellent – outstanding service
• fantastic selection of wines, delicious food
• extremely friendly, professional staff

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, poor customer service, average food quality, chaotic atmosphere & average menu.

Our pre-travel checklists, get you started on your independent travel journey. With all tou need to get you planning your next adventure without missing a deadline.

Checklists for:

• important to-do lists for “before you travel”
• organising travel essentials
• when to start dreaming and booking
• right up to the day before and walking out the door

The Rocks

Hotels

The Porter House Hotel – MGallery

Another hotel in the ALL-Accor Live Group, which we are yet to try. However it has come highly recommended by friends, peers and it would appear previous guests. Situated in in Sydney’s CBD, close to Hyde Park, the hotel is only a short distance from the theatre or shopping areas of QVB or Pitt Street mall.

The decor pays homage to the origins of the 1867 building, with a luxurious mix of vintage and modern. Honouring those roots as a leather and tobacco merchant which is reflected with many of the elements throughout the building, in rooms and common areas.

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Website (ALL Accor) – 4.6/5.0 (306)
• Booking.com – 8.9/10.0 (98)
• Agoda – 9.1/10.0 (83)
• Tripadvisor – 5.0/5.0 (13)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• good/ideal location
• beautiful building & decor
• high quality accommodation
• staff welcoming, professional & friendly

As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was gaps in service, room service menu limited & some room features not working.

Shangri-La – Sydney

Another of Sydney’s luxurious hotels that offers sweeping vies of Sydney harbour and her iconic structures. Enjoy the spectacular views from the restaurant and bar, that offers amazing award-winning dining experiences. (& an exceptional High Tea or so I’m told a story for later)…Spacious rooms with tasteful, luxurious décor, expansive windows, many with full views of the harbour.

Situated close to The Rocks and Circular Quay which are well worth a wander. Discover colourful history, both good and not so good whilst perusing the many artisan stores within the alleyways of the Rocks.

How they rated:

Ratings: 31/03/2023

• Booking.com – 8.1/10.0 (8,935)
• Agoda – 8.4/10.0 (9,022)
• Expedia – 8.2/10.0 (1,266)
• Tripadvisor – 4.0/5.0 (8,312)

As you can see this hotel receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• fantastic location, ideal views
• tasteful décor
• high quality spacious accommodations
• impeccable service & fantastic, helpful staff

As with any hotel reviews not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was slow check-in, staff unprofessional & unresponsive, poor service.

Restaurants

There are a plethora of restaurants around The Rocks to choose from, many set in original buildings of the first settlers. Featuring here is one of the favourites with a story from the First Fleet and views that are some of the best in Sydney.

6 HEAD

Situated on the Waterfront at the rocks, in a historic sandstone building built in the early 1800’s, which is perfectly situated and a fitting place, for this restaurant. Here 6 Head pays homage to the past with what was at the time the quintessential premium food of Australia, ‘Steak’. Taking it’s name from the First Fleets original 6 head of cattle brought to Australia, with a story of their own. Keeping with tradition at 6 HEAD, you will find some of Australia’s premium steak, possibly even some long lost descendent of the original beast…

The à la carte menu is available for all day dining, whether it’s to pop in for a snack, or stay longer and enjoy the views and food for lunch or dinner. Whilst steak is the main event of this restaurant there are alternative meals available. If you are wishing to host an event at, 6 Head there are private and semi-private dining, with 4 spaces available. These suit various sized groups, for something intimate up to a corporate event on the waterfront. Choose from the specially design menu suited for large group and events Menu.

How they rated:

Ratings: 06/04/23

• Tripadvisor – 4.5/5.0 (164) $$$$
• Google –  4.5/5.0 (1,310)

As you can see this restaurant receives mostly high accolades. The common theme amongst reviewers being:

• excellent location, beautiful views
• excellent service
• Amazing food, best Tomahawk
• Exceptional, warm, attentive staff

As with any restaurant review not everyone has the same experience & expectations. There were some comments that did not agree stating there was, long wait for mains, inexperienced-poor service & food ok.

Other Dining Options

If you are feeling like getting out for a fine dining lunch Sydney Harbour. Whether it’s an à la carte meal or a gourmet BBQ one of these options, will be perfect for you.

Other articles that may help you.

Travel insurance – Do YOU really need it?

The Points or Pay system when travelling??

6 steps to Create YOUR Perfect itinerary

9 Tips for YOUR Perfect Travel Plan and Budget

24 Last Minute Gifts for Travellers

9 Creative Ways to Gift Fun Travel Experiences

6 Luxury Accommodation Styles Pros and Cons

10 Essential International Travel Checklist Points – All you need to know

I am always happy to reply to any comments, suggestions for next articles or a hello. You can contact me through our Social Media or at jeanine@letsgoawandering.com with any questions or comments.