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Best Modern Australian Restaurants in Sydney CBD

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45 restaurants available nearby

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A photo of The Dining Room & Terrace at Shell House restaurant
1. The Dining Room & Terrace at Shell House
4.5
Awesome(24)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Sydney CBD
Booked 19 times today
The Dining Room is classic in theory, yet modern and forward-thinking in practice.It is elegant, grand, and approachable at the same time.The menu by Culinary Director Joel Bickford, focuses on carefully sourced produce, presenting simple, refined dishes that are infused with Australian provenance yet bear the mark of the Mediterranean way of life.“This Dining Room holds a very special place for me as I hope it will for many others – it’s the beating heart of Shell House.”– Brett Robinson“Two Hats” – Good Food Awards 2023, 2024“Wine List of the Year” – Good Food Awards 2023
A photo of The Grill at The International restaurant
2. The Grill at The International
4.6
Exceptional(33)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Sydney CBD
Booked 32 times today
From the finest grade produce and culinary techniques guided by the expertise of Culinary Director Joel Bickford, The Grill at The International celebrates classic traditions and global standard fine dining with a simple and unwavering commitment to the finest ingredients cooked to order perfectly over live fire and delivered with warm, generous and skilled service. The Grill is designed as the ultimate place to celebrate life’s great occasions or enjoy the everyday pleasure of exceptional food and wine in a luxurious indoor outdoor dining room keyed to the rhythm of the city.Expect technicolour seasonality and obsessional provenance aimed to set a new standard in big city dining in Sydney.
A photo of The Wharf Restaurant and Bar restaurant
3. The Wharf Restaurant and Bar
4.2
Awesome(169)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Dawes Point / Walsh Bay
Booked 41 times today
Welcome to The Wharf Restaurant and Bar – an elevated sit-down restaurant and bar at the end of Wharf 4/5 with sweeping views of Sydney Harbour.Serving a contemporary Australian menu with the relaxed charm of waterfront dining, book your table at the restaurant and choose from one of two shared menus, or order a la carte. The Wharf Restaurant and Bar also offers a casual bar area, perfect for a pre-show drink and a snack.
A photo of Ester restaurant
4. Ester
4.8
Exceptional(152)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Chippendale
Booked 26 times today
Ester is a restaurant powered by fire in a pared back, industrially inspired room in Sydney's Chippendale. Head chef Mat Lindsay's produce led approach to food - with an emphasis on native ingredients - is paired with a thoughtful wine list of natural wines from Australia and around the world.
A photo of Pony Dining The Rocks restaurant
5. Pony Dining The Rocks
4.6
Exceptional(304)
$$$$
• Modern australian • The Rocks
Booked 15 times today
Pony Dining The Rocks delivers a phenomenal seafood dining experience that has left patrons raving about its "fresh and beautifully presented" dishes. Nestled in Sydney's historic The Rocks district, Pony excels in showcasing the season's finest seafood, cooked to perfection on their distinctive Argentinian wood fire grill. Guests have been particularly enchanted by the "yellowfin tuna tartare" and the "market fish," which consistently exceed expectations. The passionate culinary team, led by Exec Chef Neil Nolan, crafts each dish with care, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience that is "simply outstanding." With its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional service, Pony Dining is a must-visit for seafood lovers.
A photo of The Grounds of the City restaurant
6. The Grounds of the City
4.2
Awesome(3738)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Sydney CBD
Booked 89 times today
The Grounds of the City, located in the vibrant Sydney CBD, offers an unparalleled café experience that truly stands out. Known for its "fantastic food" and "great coffee," this café brings old-school charm and service to the heart of the city. Whether you're starting your day with their expertly brewed house-roasted espresso or indulging in an exquisite breakfast, the quality and authenticity are evident in every sip and bite. With glowing reviews praising the "amazing atmosphere" and "outstanding service," it's no wonder diners are "absolutely in love with this café." The Grounds of the City promises a delightful and memorable dining experience for all.
A photo of Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse restaurant
7. Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse
4.6
Exceptional(618)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Sydney CBD
Booked 20 times today
Kingsleys Australian Steakhouse, nestled in the heart of Sydney CBD, offers an authentic American steakhouse experience with a delightful twist of Australian charm. Renowned for its perfectly cooked steaks, Kingsleys is hailed as "THE steakhouse in Sydney" by satisfied patrons. The bone-in ribeye and filet mignon are celebrated for their "phenomenal taste," making this steakhouse a must-visit for meat enthusiasts. The rustic and sophisticated ambiance, complemented by a superb selection of wines, creates an inviting atmosphere. With consistent praise for its "attentive service" and exquisite dishes, Kingsleys stands out as a true gem for those seeking genuine American cuisine in Sydney.
A photo of Ragazzi restaurant
8. Ragazzi
4.8
Exceptional(64)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Sydney CBD
Booked 58 times today
Angel Place’s Ragazzi Wine + Pasta is one of the CBD’s most-loved dining spots, serving traditional hand-rolled, shaped and pinched Italian pasta shapes, with sauces and snacks that are uniquely our own. The menu, created by Executive Chef Alex Major and Head Chef Rajesh Bhandari, changes regularly, according to what’s in season. Much like in the kitchen, Ragazzi's 250 bottle-heavy wine list highlights both classic and contemporary Italian winemaking, while paying full respect to the growing use of native Italian varieties here in Australia.Ragazzi is lively and energetic with an open kitchen and bar and a warm, enthusiastic team.
A photo of Poly restaurant
9. Poly
4.8
Exceptional(236)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Darlinghurst
Booked 17 times today
Poly is a wine bar by Mat Lindsay and the team from Ester. We take reservations but always save space for walk-ins. If you cant find a reservation online please give us a call or walk in!Bookings are online only, please use the widget to check availability.
A photo of Ennui restaurant
10. Ennui
4.8
Exceptional(72)
$$$$
• Modern australian • Haymarket
Booked 16 times today
ENNUI. Enjoy modern French inspired cuisine in the heart of Haymarket. Our signature dish, The Duck Ennui, is dry-aged and house-smoked to perfection, featuring irresistibly crispy skin and succulent, tender meat. Find us a short stroll to the Capitol Theatre & Central Station. We have a wide range of cocktails, Fine Wine and rare Japanese Whiskey and Scotch for you to sample. Pre-theatre, bar, corporate & dinner seven days a week

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See what locals rave about

From verified diners like you
From verified diners like you
  • Philip
    Sydney •2 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 2 days ago
    The food was exceptional, with every dish beautifully presented and packed with flavour. The quality of the ingredients and attention to detail were evident throughout the entire meal. The menu strikes a great balance between creativity and classic favourites, making it difficult to choose what to order. What really set the experience apart was the service. The staff were professional, attentive, and genuinely welcoming, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere without ever feeling intrusive. The venue itself is stunning, with a sophisticated yet comfortable ambience that makes it perfect for both special occasions and a great night out with friends. Shell House has quickly become one of my favourite restaurants in Sydney. Amazing food, fantastic service, and a beautiful setting. Highly recommended and I'll definitely be back.
    More info
    The Dining Room & Terrace at Shell House$$$$• Modern Australian• Sydney CBD
    •
    4.5
  • CherylGold
    Las Vegas •6 reviews
    5.0
    Dined 3 days ago
    Fabulous restaurant! Servers were attentive and the food was excellent!
    More info
    Pony Dining The Rocks$$$$• Steakhouse• The Rocks
    •
    4.6
  • Cheerson
    Sydney •1 review
    4.0
    Dined 7 days ago
    Exceptional food. Great service. A little hidden gem definitely.
    More info
    Ester$$$$• Modern Australian• Chippendale
    •
    4.8
  • EDGARGold
    Victoria •5 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 21, 2026
    Always a Highlight of Our trip To Sydney❤️❤️❤️ Service and food and the Ambiance 10 out of 10
    More info
    Bennelong Restaurant$$$$• Modern Australian• Sydney CBD
    •
    4.7
  • Alf
    Brisbane •13 reviews
    5.0
    Dined on May 21, 2026
    Loved 🥰 our experience and new concept at the grill martini bar. Our waiter was so good, we tried a few martini’s on his referral and he was so informative on all the types of martini’s we sampled. Loved 🥰 the oysters, 🦪 and loved the intimate setting with my wife. Will be back
    More info
    The Grill at The International$$$$• Modern Australian• Sydney CBD
    •
    4.6

Discover best Modern Australian restaurants in Sydney CBD

Explore the vibrant world of Modern Australian cuisine right in the heart of Sydney CBD, a bustling hub known for its diverse and sophisticated dining scene. Whether you're a local foodie or a visitor eager to taste the culinary delights of Sydney, the selection of restaurants offering Modern Australian dishes is sure to impress. These eateries, renowned for their innovative menus that blend traditional Australian ingredients with contemporary cooking techniques, provide a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Australia's rich food culture. From sustainably sourced local produce to expertly crafted dishes that showcase the chef's creativity and passion, each restaurant contributes to a dynamic dining atmosphere. Enjoy a range of atmospheres, from intimate and elegant settings to lively and casual vibes, all while indulging in high-quality, flavorful meals. The dining scene in Sydney CBD reflects a commitment to excellence and a celebration of Australian gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an exceptional culinary adventure.

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