The Best Surry Hills Restaurant to Dine at Now

Nestled in the heart of Sydney, the restaurant scene in Surry Hills has become an unparalleled dining destination.

While Sydney is no stranger to incredible eating experiences, Surry Hills stands as a testament to the city’s unique culinary landscape, and promises an epicurean adventure of diverse flavours, aromas and experiences. Each of Sydney’s revitalised precincts has something wonderful to offer, and Surry Hills restaurants’ cater to every taste and budget, making it a gastronomic haven. Whether you’re visiting for the first time, or are a seasoned local, Surry Hills invites you to savour the extraordinary. Here are our top picks for where to eat.

1. Firedoor

Best for: Seasonal cuisine cooked over coals

Fire is the blazing focal point of Firedoor restaurant, awarded three hats in this year’s Good Food Guide Awards. Dinner here is a particularly unique experience as everything is cooked by fire, with the flame’s embers used to enhance the natural characteristics of the seasonal ingredients on offer.

diners enjoying a meal at Surry Hill's Firedoor restaurant — Pull up a chair inside Firedoor restaurant. (Image: Nikki To)

The open-plan kitchen encourages diners to watch on and marvel as food is prepared, encouraging the same sense of wonder and fascination with fire that drives owner and chef Lennox Hastie to do what he does best.

Chef Lennox Hastie in the kitchen at Surry Hill's Firedoor restaurant — Watch Chef Lennox Hastie as he prepares the food. (Image: Nikki To)

Address: Firedoor, 23-33 Mary Street, Surry Hills

2. Kiln

Best for: Sydney skyline views and modern Australian cuisine

Kiln is a marvel, positioned 18 stories high above the Ace Hotel and with glittering views extending out over Sydney. The open kitchen and woodfire hearth nod to the restaurant’s namesake as one of the colony’s earliest kilns, and the native timbers and earthy palette capture the colours of the Australian landscape.

the rooftop dining at Kiln restaurant, Ace hotel — Dine at Kiln and enjoy rooftop views over Sydney . (Image: Anson Smart/Destination NSW)

While diners may come curious to try the Australian classic with a twist, Jatz biscuit with smoked butter and anchovy, they also find a contemporary menu featuring seasonal produce and woodfire cooking.

the elegant dining interior at Kiln restaurant, Ace hotel — The restaurant’s interior is filled with native timbers and earthy palettes. (Image: Anson Smart/Destination NSW)

Address: Kiln, 53 Foy Lane, Sydney

3. The Rover

Best for: East London classics

The Rover offers the best of both worlds, with an inviting restaurant upstairs that combines liveliness with a sense of intimacy, and a vibrant cocktail floor on the ground floor downstairs to either begin or end the night.

the classy dining interior at The Rover, Surry Hiils — Start or end your meal in the downstairs bar. (Image: Dominic Loneragan)

The menu showcases refined East London classics, bistro staples, and seafood specials reflecting produce in season.

pouring wine into the glass with food on the table at The Rover, Surry Hills — Get your seafood fix at The Rover. (Image: Dominic Loneragan)

Complemented by attentive service and a thoughtfully curated wine list and world-class cocktails, dining here feels like you’ve stepped into the charming coast of the British Isles.

the restaurant interior of The Rover, Surry Hiils — The dining interior at The Rover exudes class and charm

Address: The Rover, 75 Campbell Street, Surry Hills

4. Chin Chin

Best for: Contemporary South East Asian cuisine

The Sydney outpost to Melbourne’s original restaurant, Chin Chin in Surry Hills captures the imagination from the moment you enter the heritage-listed Griffiths tea building.

the exterior of Chin Chin, Surry Hills — Chin Chin evokes vibrant and eccentric vibes. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

Chin Chin’s buzzy ambience is unparalleled, creating a space where industrial warehouse chic, music, and pink neon lights seamlessly collide. The creative, extensive menu focuses on offering South-East Asian bold flavours, and sharing plates is recommended. Attentive staff and a dynamic drinks menu make this a high-energy experience to be remembered.

a table-top view of food on the table at Chin Chin, Surry Hills — Feast on Southeast Asian flavours at Chin Chin. (Image: Steven Woodburn)

Address: Chin Chin, 69 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills

5. Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant

Best for: Rustic Italian charm

An iconic staple of Crown Street, Mille Vine has emerged from its recent interior facelift and shines with bustling rustic charm. Mille Vine’s impressive new menu showcases authentic flavours with a focus on classic recipes, including the poached octopus salad and truffle pecorino drizzled with blossom honey.

dripping sauce into a dish at Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant, Surry Hills — A drool-worthy dish at Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant.

The adventurous cocktail list and curated wine selection, with an emphasis on local producers with Italian varieties, has been designed to complement the food menu.

a spaghetti dish at Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant, Surry Hills — The Mille Vini Spaghetti is bursting with bold flavours.

While the vibes are high here every night, Wednesday evenings offer a set menu with live Jazz from 6-9 pm. Fancy brunch instead? The two-hour drink and food package is to die for, featuring bottomless limoncello or mulled wine, depending on the season.

a bartender pouring wine into the glass at Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant, Surry Hills — Find an adventurous cocktail list and curated wine list.

Address: Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant, 397 Crown Street, Surry Hills

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6. NOMAD Sydney

Best for: Fine dining with a focus on sustainability

Nomad’s food is inspired by travels through the Middle East, Spain and Morocco. Famous for their charcuterie and flatbread staples, Nomad’s commitment to sourcing the very best produce from local growers and pursuing sustainability shines through their dynamic menu.

a table-top view of food at NOMAD Sydney — Savour a well-curated menu at NOMAD Sydney.

The focus of the thoughtfully curated wine list is on emerging producers and those with a dedicated commitment to organic farming practices, both locally and internationally. Nomad Sydney turned 10 this November, and their commitment to excellence in the Surry Hills culinary scene was marked by being awarded one hat in the SMH Good Food Guide Awards.

the dining interior at NOMAD Sydney, Surry Hills — Book a table for two at NOMAD Sydney.

Address: Nomad, 16 Foster Street, Surry Hills

7. Mark and Vinny’s

Best for: Experimental Italian classics

Mark & Vinny’s takes the call of “don’t be upsetti, eat some spaghetti" very seriously, offering a buzzy, bustling experience that delights the senses in all the best ways.

chili watermelon margarita at Mark and Vinny’s, Surry Hills — The drinks menu is as tantalising as the food.

Greeted by Vinny at the door, diners are offered an innovative Italian menu that pops with unexpected colour and offers sustainable, ethical culinary delights that cater to vegans, celiacs and carnivores alike. Mark & Vinny’s creativity also delivers in their extensive spitz menu.

a plate of Gnocchi at Mark and Vinny’s, Surry Hills — Vegans, celiacs and carnivores are well taken care of here.

Address: Mark & Vinny’s, g07/38-52 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills

8. The Blue Door

Best for: Ethical, producer-focused cuisine

With a seating capacity of only 18, The Blue Door celebrates ethical dining and sustainability in an intimate setting. The seven-plus course tasting menu changes each week, reflecting what Head Chef and owner Dylan Cashman is sent from farmers he has personally visited.

the entrance of The Blue Door restaurant, Surry Hills — Slip behind the blue door into the intimate dining space. (Image: Amanda Michetti)

Complementing this meticulously planned menu is a curated wine list showcasing the best of around 150 New South Wales wines selected by wine aficionado Angelica Nohra, winner of the 2022 NSW Sommelier’s Wine List of the Year, demonstrating the Blue Door’s commitment to pairing local food with local wine.

the dining at The Blue Door restaurant, Surry Hills — The Blue Door celebrates ethical dining and sustainability in an intimate setting. (Image: Amanda Michetti)

Address: The Blue Door, 8/38 Waterloo Street, Surry Hills

9. Spice I Am

Best for: Authentic, innovative Thai cuisine

Spice I Am embodies authentic Thai cuisine innovation, with Head Chef Sujet Saenkham regularly travelling to Thailand to stay at the forefront of culinary developments. This is reflected in the menu, which features delicious dishes made with fresh and zesty vegetables and herbs grown in the Spice I Am farm.

a farm-to-table dish with fresh veggies at Spice I Am — The Surry Hills restaurant serves dishes made with produce from the Spice I Am farm.

Address: Spice I Am, 90 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills

10. Don’t Tell Aunty

Best for: Traditional food with a contemporary twist

Holding firm to the sacred gesture of serving others, Don’t Tell Aunty marries the traditional with the unconventional by taking the finest ingredients and breaking the rules. The restaurant ambience resonates with the pulsating energy of the kitchen, and the menu showcases creativity and thoughtful experimentation. A decadent bottomless brunch option is also on offer.

lamb chops at Don’t Tell Aunty, Surry Hills — Find an eclectic menu that blends the unconventional with the traditional at Don’t Tell Aunty.

Address: Don’t Tell Aunty, 414 Bourke Street, Surry Hills

11. Bad Hombres

Best for: Vegan and gluten-free refined Mexican

The team at Bad Hombres deliver on their promise of “Bad Hombres Good food" with their Mexican plant-based restaurant. With a fully vegan and gluten free kitchen, this inventive and mouth-watering menu caters to everyone.

a close-up of Mexican food at Bad Hombres, Surry Hills — Enjoy vegan Mexican delights at Bad Hombres.

A friendly and frenetic atmosphere brings a party vibe that caters to big groups and couples, and diners are kept happy with the range of weekly specials, including Taco Tuesdays (3 tacos for $15) and Tequila Thursdays ($13 Margaritas).

tacos at Bad Hombres, Surry Hills — Carnivores won’t be disappointed.

The small wine list is vegan and mostly natural, and there is a range of tequila/mezcal cocktails on offer too, including a classic frozen margarita for the hot summer months.

a margarita drink at Bad Hombres, Surry Hills — Cap off the night with a cocktail.

Address: Bad Hombres, 40 Reservoir Street, Surry Hills

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12. Gogyo

Best for: Date night elegance

Ramen sensation Gogyo may be a chain, but it is one of a kind in the Sydney culinary scene. Founded by the acclaimed ‘Ramen King’ Shigemi Kawahara in 2003, this Surry Hills restaurant is the first location for Gogyo in Australia, following in the footsteps of restaurants in Kyoto, Tokyo, Nagoya, Fukuoka and Hong Kong.

the exterior of Gogyo, Surry Hills — Step into the traditional Japanese restaurant, Gogyo.

With a wide selection of traditional and contemporary Japanese dishes, the standout is kogashi-style ramen, where fragrant flavours are evoked using a unique charring technique. The interior of this restaurant reflects a meticulous eye for detail, thoughtfully combining tradition with elegance.

a bowl of ramen at Gogyo, Surry Hills — Slurp authentic Japanese ramen at Gogyo.

Address: Gogyo, 52 – 54 Albion Street, Surry Hills

13. Nour

Best for: Chic and playful Lebanese flavours

Nour, a Lebanese restaurant established in 2016, has become a vibrant fixture in the Surry Hills scene. The dedicated culinary team, spearheaded by Executive Chef Paul Farag in collaboration with Head Chef Gianluca Lonati, strives to showcase traditional Middle Eastern favourites with a playful, fresh twist.

the restaurant interior of Nour, Surry Hills — Dine inside the lavish light-filled space at Nour.

The soft, pastel colours and crisp lines of the lavish light-filled space appeal to small groups and couples alike. Tantalising bottomless brunch sharing packages are also available, should you wish to start enjoying the food earlier in the day.

raising a cocktail glass at Nour, Surry Hills — Raise a glass at Nour. (Image: Jiwon Kim)

Address: Nour, 3/490 Crown Street, Surry Hills

14. Porteño

Best for: Award-winning dry-aged steaks

The two-hatted restaurant, Porteño, currently ranks an impressive 40th in the 2023 World’s Best Steak Restaurants list. Exuding authenticity and excellence, Porteño belongs to the Porteño Group, the same team behind Bastardo, Wyno x Bodega and Humble. Co-owned by chefs Elvis Abrahanowicz and Ben Milgate, the menu showcases not only tantalising steaks but a range of hand-cut speciality meats prepared on traditional grills. The lively ambience that comes from an open-plan kitchen and thoughtful selection of wines make Porteño a memorable dining experience.

Address: Porteno, 50 Holt Street, Surry Hills

15. 170 Grammi

Best for: Roman-style pizzas

If you’ve ever wondered what your favourite pasta dishes would taste like on a pizza, wonder no more! 170 Grammi, sister venue to Via Napoli, has now opened and is serving up some seriously flavoursome pizzas with an inventive twist. There’s cacio e pepe, carbonara, amatriciana and the signature porchetta di ariccia.

Food from 170 Grammi in Surry Hills — The wood-fired pizzas are made using only 170 grams of dough. (Image: Trent van der Jagt)

With 13 wood-fired pizzas on the menu, all made using only 170 grams of dough, and the unmissable maritozzis that are making a name for themselves, 170 Grammi is a Surry Hills destination in and of itself.

maritozzis from 170 Grammi in Surry Hills — A visit to 170 Grammi isn’t complete without a *maritozzi*. (Image: Trent van der Jagt)

Address: 170 Grammi, 428 Crown St, Surry Hills

For more of Sydney’s best eats, read our pick of the best restaurants in Sydney.

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Autumn and winter cast a whole new light on the New South Wales coastline. The sun hangs lower, the shadows stretch longer and the air is crisp and fresh. The frenetic summer crowds are gone, and the rhythm slows to the pace of a leisurely winter bush walk through still, damp quiet. From wineries pouring winter reds to the annual whale migration up the ‘humpback highway’, here’s why winter on the New South Wales coast is better.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter down south means misty dawns, sipping a flat white on the beach. The thrill of a whale spotting from the headlands and evenings spent slowly savouring Shoalhaven’s wines by the fire.

Start in Kiama, where waves crash into the famous Blowholes. This natural spectacle is achieved when underground pressure and swell unite, sending sea spray soaring above the basalt cliffs. This means, due to larger waves, you’re even more likely to see an explosive display in winter.

two people standing in front of kiama blowhole — See Kiama’s blowholes in full force. (Image: Destination NSW)

Inland, the Minnamurra Rainforest Walk in Budderoo National Park is all subtropical forest and trilling lyrebird song. Make sure to walk silently along the elevated boardwalks, past winter-swelled creeks and the tangled roots of fig trees. You might just hear one of the musically talented birds mimicking your footsteps.

Feeling adventurous? Book a session at Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures for a wobbly walk through the canopy on Australia’s highest zipline.

Illawarra Fly Treetop Adventures on the new south wales south coast — Walk among the tallest trees. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, it’s time to take the speed down a notch with a drive over to the historic village of Berry. It’s been a beloved stop for generations of Sydneysiders heading south, as has the obligatory stop at its famous doughnut van for crisped, cinnamon goodness. If you’re ready for something a little more chunky, stroll right past the boutiques (okay, go on, just one quick peek) to Milkwood Bakery. Their flaky pastries and all-day breakfasts are best enjoyed under cream-coloured fringed umbrellas.

Back in Kiama, you’ll also find modern Middle Eastern share plates at Miss Arda, and next-level burgers on The Hungry Monkey‘s extensive menu: an ode to everything pattie-shaped.

End the day at The Sebel Kiama on the harbour. The apartment-style rooms come with full cooking facilities — a welcome addition for families looking to test out the local produce they picked up along the way. Including, but not limited to, vintages from nearby Crooked River Wines.

The Sebel Kiama exterior — Sleep by the harbour.

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

A trip up north is a gentle one at this time of year. You’ll still feel that sunshine warming your shoulders, but the lower temperatures make space for rainforest walks, vineyard lunches and long coastal hikes. All without that pesky humidity.

First stop? It has to be the town of Port Macquarie. Start by marking out a stretch of the nine-kilometre coastal walk you want to tackle (or do the whole thing), which winds from Town Beach to the lighthouse along rugged headlands and quiet beaches. Hot tip: binoculars. Don’t forget them if you want to partake in some close-up sightings of dolphin pods or whales migrating up the ‘humpback highway’.

Port Macquarie Coastal Walk, winter on the New South Wales coast — Wander the Port Macquarie Coastal Walk. (Image: Destination NSW)

Swap sea for canopy at the Sea Acres Rainforest Boardwalk, one of the last remaining pockets of coastal rainforest in the state. The accessible elevated trail passes under climbing ferns and tangled strangler figs, and is alive with scarlet robins, goannas and diamond pythons – if you’re lucky, you might see one slipping through the leaf litter.

Afterwards, lunch is sorted at Cassegrain Wines, where crisp whites and elegant reds are grown using a blend of French winemaking tradition and Australian innovation. After a tasting, saddle up for a horse ride through the estate.

port macquarie koala hospital — Meet Koala Hospital inhabitants at their temporary home. (Image: Destination NSW)

The beloved Koala Hospital is rebuilding, so meet its furry patients in their temporary bushland abode at Guulabaa – Place of Koala. Here, you can see rehabilitation up close and learn how one of Australia’s most iconic animals is being carefully rewilded and protected.

Back in town, Whalebone Wharf serves up fine dining with serious views to go with your oysters. Prefer something breezier? Bills Fishhouse + Bar does everything from blue swimmer crab toast to zucchini noodles drizzled in basil and wattleseed pesto. Down by the waterfront, Little Shack slings ceviche, mushroom burgers and fish tacos with casual aplomb.

At the end of it all, check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie, right in the heart of town. From here, everything’s walkable. Just park the car, pop your keys in your pocket, and stroll down to the beach.

bed at Mercure Centro Port Macquarie — Check in to Mercure Centro Port Macquarie.

Winter on the Central Coast

On the Central Coast, expect to explore oyster farms that sit on estuaries, beaches that stretch empty for miles, and the kind of surprise sightings of whale sprays that can stop a hiker in their tracks.

The best way to settle into this slower rhythm is with the Bouddi Coastal Walk, an 8.5km trail that dips through rainforest and eroding cliffs. It’s made for unhurried walkers and long-lens photographers.

Up the coast in Terrigal, it’s prime time to spot humpbacks on the move. Join a cruise or find your own perch — Crackneck Lookout and Norah Head Lighthouse are both local favourites.

a humpback whale breaching on the central coast — Spot migrating humpback whales. (Image: Destination NSW)

Travelling with kids? It would be sacrilege not to visit the Australian Reptile Park. Here, Elvis the saltwater crocodile reigns supreme, and the venomous snake talk somehow manages to be simultaneously terrifying and fascinating.

If that isn’t enough to wear them out, zip and climb your way through Treetops Adventure Central Coast, a ropes course in the canopy of Ourimbah State Forest. Afterwards, steady your nerves with a garden tasting at Firescreek Botanical Winery, where fruit- and flower-infused wines are served under the trees.

Switch earth for sea and hop on a boat tour with Broken Bay Pearl Farm. Once you’re out on the water, you’ll learn how pearls are cultivated and have a hands-on lesson in grading and shucking.

woman holding a pearl at Broken Bay Pearl Farm — Get a hands-on pearl lesson. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the day winds down, grab a seat at Yellowtail in Terrigal, which takes seasonal native produce and presents it with Asian flair. Prefer something simple? Award-winning Mount White restaurant Saddles is a quintessential Australian dining destination. Find an impressive breakfast and lunch menu, dedicated to country-style cooking and seasonal produce.

Stay the night at Pullman Magenta Shores, between the ocean and the lake. There are plenty of ways to relax, with a massage at the day spa, a poolside beanbag and a round or two at the golf course.

restaurant at Pullman Magenta Shores central coast — Eat well at Pullman Magenta Shores’ restaurant. (Image: Destination NSW)

Winter in Wollongong

Wollongong does contrast pretty well. One moment you’re walking beneath an enormous Buddha, the next you’re ordering soju a few blocks from the surf. It’s a town where skydivers land on beaches, trails lead to paddocks and winter days stretch long and clear beneath the Illawarra cliffs.

If you’re coming from the north, start by crossing over the Sea Cliff Bridge. Curving dramatically out like a jutting ‘C’ out above the water means you won’t be able to resist pulling over (safely, in designated lookouts) to gaze down at the waves crashing on the cliffs below.

Just inland is the serenity of the Nan Tien Temple, the largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere. You can trace the prayer path, explore the temple gardens and sip delectable Kam Quat Tea in the quiet light at the Dew Drop Inn Tea House.

monk teaching tai chi at Nan Tien Temple — Learn about Buddhist practices. (Image: Destination NSW)

Next, dust off that cowboy hat. It’s time for the Darkes Forest Riding Ranch. Take a guided canter via trail rides among peppermint gums and paddocks. If you’re happier to look at animals than ride them, Symbio Wildlife Park has red pandas dozing in trees, kangaroos that hop up to you and lessons on conservation.

The brave among you shouldn’t miss Skydive Australia – Wollongong. A free fall over the coast via tandem jumps before tumbling down to the sand is a breath-stopping thrill. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Check out the program at Wollongong Art Gallery, which delivers contemporary and Aboriginal exhibitions in the centre of town.

monkey at Symbio Wildlife Park — Hang out with the locals at Symbio Wildlife Park.(Image: Destination NSW)

As evening settles in, nab a table at Baby Face Kitchen. It has an ever-changing set menu, with dishes like hand-picked mud crab with white asparagus and salty brown butter, to sheep’s milk and honey ice cream. For something more casual, Dagwood Bar + Kitchen brings the fun with Korean fried chicken, sake cocktails and weekly all-you-can-eat bao buns.

Check in to Novotel Wollongong Northbeach, right by the sand. With a beachfront pool and ocean views, it’s an ideal base for whatever pace you choose.

Winter on the New South Wales coast starts with a cosy place to stay. Start planning your adventure at all.com.

15 restaurants in Surry Hills to dine at now

Nestled in the heart of Sydney, the restaurant scene in Surry Hills has become an unparalleled dining destination.

1. Firedoor

2. Kiln

3. The Rover

4. Chin Chin

5. Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant

6. NOMAD Sydney

7. Mark and Vinny’s

8. The Blue Door

9. Spice I Am

10. Don’t Tell Aunty

11. Bad Hombres

12. Gogyo

13. Nour

14. Porteño

15. 170 Grammi

For more of Sydney’s best eats, read our pick of the best restaurants in Sydney.

I’ve stayed in 21 hotels in Sydney and this is my favourite

Travellers get relief as Sydney Airport introduces flat-rate taxi fares

This iconic Bondi venue is about to land at Sydney Airport

Soft Forest: A free, immersive show is on in this historic Sydney garden

Why winter is the best time to be on the New South Wales coast

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong

Nestled in the heart of Sydney, the restaurant scene in Surry Hills has become an unparalleled dining destination.

1. Firedoor

2. Kiln

3. The Rover

4. Chin Chin

5. Mille Vini Wine Bar & Restaurant

AI Prompt

6. NOMAD Sydney

7. Mark and Vinny’s

8. The Blue Door

9. Spice I Am

10. Don’t Tell Aunty

11. Bad Hombres

12. Gogyo

13. Nour

14. Porteño

15. 170 Grammi

For more of Sydney’s best eats, read our pick of the best restaurants in Sydney.

I’ve stayed in 21 hotels in Sydney and this is my favourite

Travellers get relief as Sydney Airport introduces flat-rate taxi fares

This iconic Bondi venue is about to land at Sydney Airport

Soft Forest: A free, immersive show is on in this historic Sydney garden

NSW’s beach towns take on a new kind of magic when the cooler months hit.

Winter on the NSW South Coast

Winter on the Mid-North Coast

Winter on the Central Coast

Winter in Wollongong