SYDNEY
BOURKE STREET BAKERY
The original Surry Hills location of this bakery stands as a local hotspot, evidenced by the winding line that stretched out the door. Hastening from our car, I secured a coveted spot amidst the bustle. The aroma of freshly baked pies and hot cross buns wafted through the air, punctuated by the smiles of satisfied customers emerging from the cozy confines of the bakery. Fortunately, the line moved swiftly, affording glimpses of the array of take-home delights lining the shelves—pasta, flours, olive oil, coffee beans, honey, and more—each tempting in its own right. My impromptu shopping spree resulted in a selection of items that promised culinary adventures ahead. Among the must-tries are the hot cross buns, quiches, and pies, though the tomato and cheese crosstie had already sold out for the day upon my arrival. Nonetheless, the spinach, mushroom, and goat cheese quiche proved to be a delightful alternative, offering warmth and flavor to soothe the soul. A delightful cappuccino served as the perfect accompaniment to the chocolate ganache tart, while the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked bread left me longing for a taste. Notably, the bakery offers vegan and gluten-free options, ensuring inclusivity for all customers. I wholeheartedly recommend a visit to check out what this bakery has to offer if time allows. For longer stays, consider exploring their specialty catering services and baking classes, promising further opportunities to indulge in the bakery's culinary delights.
Recommended Dishes:
Traditional Hot Cross Buns
Croissant
Chocolate Ganache Tart
Lemon Curd Tart
Seasonal Tart
Spinach, Mushroom, and Goats Cheese Quiche
I did not get the chance to personally try, but the Flourless Belgian Chocolate Cake and all of the Sourdough Bread looked incredible!
Tee Scale Rating: 8.4/10
CALI PRESS
Frequenting the streets of Sydney, this chain of health food cafes consistently delivers delectable offerings. The little açai bowl and power recovery smoothie emerge as ideal afternoon pick-me-ups, particularly refreshing in the Australian heat. Not to be overlooked is their delicious coffee, with the iced latte standing out as my favorite. For those seeking a quick and nutritious bite, this establishment is a lifesaver. With its convenient locations and satisfying menu options, it's the perfect solution for those on the go. Simply drop in and enjoy a taste of wholesome goodness.
Recommended Dishes:
Little Açai Bowl
Power Recovery Smoothie
Iced Latte
Flat White
Tee Scale Rating: 7/10
RUEBEN HILLS
This charming café located in Surry Hills not only boasts delectable bites but also offers an exceptional selection of coffee. As a microbrewery, it forges connections with farmers worldwide to curate a diverse and exquisite blend of coffee beans. Intrigued by their reputation, I visited with the intention of procuring their specialty beans, only to find myself captivated by the tantalizing food offerings. During my brief visit, it was evident that the avocado toast and the fried chicken basket stood out as crowd favorites, with numerous orders of each bustling out of the kitchen. Witnessing the popularity of these dishes only enhanced my anticipation of the culinary experience awaiting me. Whether seeking a delightful brunch spot or indulging in the pursuit of exquisite coffee beans, this café is a destination worth exploring. Its seamless fusion of exceptional cuisine and artisanal coffee promises a memorable dining experience for food enthusiasts and coffee aficionados alike, as well as the promise for returning home with a bag of delicious coffee beans.
Recommended Dishes:
Avocado toast
Scram on AP Sourdough
Fried Chicken Basket
Huevos Divorciados
Coffee Beans Blends: House Blend, OG Blend, Ethiopia Refisa, & Kenya Karindunduaa
Tee Scale Rating: 8.4/10
A.P. PLACE BAKERY
Eager to explore the culinary delights of Sydney, I couldn't resist the allure of A.P. Place—a bakery that had garnered numerous glowing reviews. On the second day of my visit, still battling jet lag and a monstrous appetite, I found myself standing before this charming hole-in-the-wall establishment. Despite the early hour, the bakery buzzed with activity as customers leisurely sipped their coffees and savored delectable pastries. A glance at the display case revealed an array of freshly baked goods, with ingredients sourced from local vendors, each beckoning with intriguing flavors. Among my favorites were the hazelnut and praline twice baked croissant—a harmonious blend of crunch and moistness, and the pistachio, brown butter, and blackberry tart—a delightful bite with carefully balanced notes that were both savory and sweet. Reasonable prices coupled with the warm hospitality of the staff made for a delightful experience. With multiple locations scattered across Sydney, A.P. Place beckons to those wanting to experience unique pastries.
Recommended Dishes:
Chocolate Chip Cookie
Hazelnut and Praline Twice Baked Croissant
Pistachio, Brown Butter, and Blackberry Tart
Fig, Almond and Ricotta Danish
Tee Scale Rating: 8/10
BATHER’S BISTRO
Nestled in Mossman, on top of a picturesque ocean cove, this charming bistro offers a delightful culinary experience within an equally enchanting interior. I choose to begin my journey with the fresh focaccia—an impeccable balance of crispy exterior and fluffy interior, and highly suggest you do the same. The fried zucchini flowers were a delectable appetizer, arriving piping hot, though a request for extra romesco sauce might enhance the overall experience of this dish. Meanwhile, the steamed mussels, accompanied by a tomato sauce, offer a savory indulgence, further heightened when paired with the crispy fries. Reservations are not obligatory, allowing for spontaneous visits to this charming locale.
Recommended Dishes:
Focaccia and Olive Oil
Fried Zucchini Flowers, Ricotta, Romesco, Green Olive
Steamed Mussels, Tomato, Harissa, and Fries
Tee Scale Rating: 7.7/10
BAKER BLEU
With three bustling locations across Sydney, this bakery draws in a steady stream of satisfied customers. The Double Bay outpost, in particular, stands out with its unique setup—divided into distinct sections for coffee orders and pastries/food selections. Among their delicious offerings are the irresistible hot cross buns and sesame seed bagels, though the bakery boasts a diverse array of baked goods to cater to various preferences. Make sure to try the sourdough bread and croissants offered here, as they are known for their unique taste. The efficiency of their coffee bar ensures prompt service without compromising on quality. A noteworthy accolade comes from my mother, who proclaims their green juice is the best she's ever tasted—a testament to its exceptional flavor and freshness. I suggest arriving early to ensure a better chance of snagging your favorite treats before they sell out. Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a refreshing beverage, this bakery promises a delightful experience.
Recommended Dishes:
Avocado toast
Scram on AP Sourdough
Fried Chicken Basket
Huevos Divorciados
Coffee Beans Blends: House Blend, OG Blend, Ethiopia Refisa, & Kenya Karindunduaa
Tee Scale Rating: 8.4/10
OAKBERRY
This renowned global chain consistently delivers delicious açai smoothies and bowls, making it the perfect stop for a post-beach snack or lunch. Offering an extensive array of toppings and flavors, you can customize your bowl or smoothie to perfection, ensuring a deeply satisfying culinary experience. Don’t forget to get the paçoca, as its peanut buttery goodness is delectable.
Recommended Dishes:
Build Your Own Açai Bowl with: Banana, Strawberry, Honey Toasted Oats, Cacao Nibs, Honey, Peanut Butter, and Paçoca
Tee Scale Rating: 8.3/10
TOTTI’S
Nestled in the heart of Bondi, Tottis emerges as a captivating culinary oasis, seamlessly blending chic ambiance with earthy allure. Boasting a welcoming staff, charming decor, and an indoor-outdoor setting, this restaurant unequivocally merits a coveted spot on your gastronomic itinerary for Sydney. Tottis' main dish is its renowned wood-fired bread, meticulously crafted within the cozy confines of a quaint pizza oven nestled into the restaurant's walls. Each bite promises a symphony of flavors. Enhancing this culinary centerpiece are an array of exquisite antipasti selections. Personal favorites include the tangy pickled zucchini with mint and lemon, the vibrant medley of fresh tomatoes and basil, the indulgently creamy burrata, and the refreshing crispness of cucumbers elegantly paired with stracciatella. While these antipasti offerings provide a fulfilling late lunch experience, regrettably limiting further exploration of the menu, our attentive waiter graciously highlighted Tottis' standout entrees. Among the most celebrated selections are the bucatini, vongole & bottarga, the half-smoked chicken, the sumptuous 250g wagyu rump schnitzel, and the refreshing baby cos lettuce adorned with green goddess dressing. While walk-ins are accommodated, reserving a table in advance, particularly for the coveted outdoor dining area, is advisable.
Recommended Dishes:
Wood-Fired Bread
Tomato
Zucchini, Mint, Lemon
Cucumber, Stracciatella, Dill
Burrata
Anchovies
Salam
Tee Scale Rating: 8.89/10
MIMI’S
To put it simply, Mimi’s has officially become a place among my top three favorite restaurants globally. From its enchanting ambiance and captivating color palette to its expansive viewing kitchen, every aspect exudes excellence. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a meticulously curated interior adorned with immaculate linens, elegant lamps, and vases, alongside neutral and natural furnishings. Our waitress, Mickey, proved to be both knowledgeable and accommodating while readily addressing any queries we had. The menu unfolds in a thoughtful sequence, commencing with the delightful sourdough bread accompanied by sour cream butter, followed by recommendations to sample their specialties—caviar and oysters. Subsequent sections offer an array of snacks, ordered individually, leading to entrees ranging from small to shareable sizes, culminating with additional sides.The snacks emerged as the highlight of the meal, with the toasted cheese and blue fin toro delivering an exquisite fusion of flavors and textures. The vegetables with sesame whip, served on ice, provided a refreshing accompaniment to the kingfish crudo, allowing for a diverse and satisfying tasting experience. However, the true standout was the banana soufflé, skillfully filled with caramel sauce at the table and paired with creme fraiche sorbet—an unparalleled dessert that continues to linger in my dreams. Reservations are strongly advised, and arriving with a hearty appetite ensures a truly unforgettable dining journey at Mimi’s. Prepare to embark on a culinary odyssey that promises to delight the senses and leave a lasting impression, and don’t forget to try the toasted cheese and banana soufflé.
Dishes Served:
Sourdough Bread with Sour Cream Butter
Freshly Shucked Oysters with White Kampot Pepper Mignonette
Zucchini Tartlet, Goats Curd, Lemon, Kombu, and Basil
Toasted Cheese, Tomato Conserva, Anchovy
Blue Fin Toro, Confit Tomato, Warm Crumpet
Kingfish Crudo, Nectarine, Pickled Kohlrabi, Yuzu Kosho, and Sasame
Iced Heritage Cucumbers, Radish, Peach, and Sesame Whip Dip
Shoestring Chips with Tarragon Mayonnaise
Banana Souffle, Creme Fraiche Sorbet, Caramel
Strawberries and Cream
Petit Fours
Tee Scale Rating: 9.8/10
MR.WONG
Nestled within a warehouse with a French colonial interior, Mr. Wong offers a modern Cantonese dining experience unlike any other. The bustling atmosphere, characterized by closely set tables, fosters an energetic and vibrant environment. Renowned for their expertly crafted dumplings and iconic deep fried ice cream, Mr. Wong's food incites an eclectic fusion of flavors. To fully explore the culinary offerings, I recommend indulging in a medley of both pan-fried and steamed dumplings, allowing for a comprehensive testing of the diverse flavor profiles. During lunch service, guests have the flexibility to select from an à la carte dumpling menu, while dinner presents a curated selection of six of the chef's chosen flavors, available in either steamed or pan-fried variations. Rest assured, dietary preferences and restrictions are accommodated with prior notice to your waiter. Given the restaurant's popularity, make sure to book in advance.
Recommended Dishes:
Baby Spinach Dumplings
Wild Mushroom Dumplings
Pan Fried Chicken and Chive Dumplings
Vegetarian Salad with Cucumber, Fennel, Wakame, Celery, Pickled Ginger, Wood Ear, and Enoki
Mr. Wong’s Deep Fried Vanilla Ice Cream with Butterscotch Sauce
Tee Scale Rating: 7.8/10
NOBU
Perched on the second floor of the contemporary Crown Hotel in Sydney, the globally acclaimed Nobu chain unveils this restaurant with its unparalleled dining experience. While many signature dishes from other Nobus’ grace the menu, this establishment boasts a selection of exclusive specialties to Sydney. One such standout is the cauliflower jalapeño dish, a symphony of flavors where the vibrant freshness of cilantro harmonizes flawlessly with the exceptional seasoning. Equally captivating are the spicy miso chips paired with tuna—an appetizer delight where the crispness of the potato chip perfectly complements the rich aioli tuna mixture. For those seeking a varied culinary journey, the lunchtime bento box special emerges as a compelling option, offering a diverse selection of items at a reasonable price point. It's a must-try for those eager to explore the menu's breadth and depth. While reservations are not mandatory, availability can diminish swiftly. Thus, it's advisable to secure your spot promptly to ensure a seat at this gastronomic haven.
Recommended Dishes:
Spicy Miso Chips with Tuna
Yellowtail Jalapeño
Whitefish Tiradito
New Style Salmon Sashimi
Field Greens with Matsuhisa Dressing
Vegetable Hand Roll with Sesame Dressing
Black Cod Butter Lettuce
Spicy Scallop Sushi
Yellowtail Jalapeño Roll with Ponzu
Cauliflower Jalapeño
Vegetable Tempura
Chicken Skewers
Tee Scale Rating: 7.3/10
ICEBERGS
Perched above the iconic and picturesque Icebergs club in Bondi, this contemporary Italian dining establishment seamlessly integrates Sydney's fresh seafood and produce to craft an array of delectable dishes, available through either an à la carte menu or an enticing tasting menu tailored to your preferences. Amidst the stunning backdrop, it's important to note that this restaurant is renowned for its vibrant scene, offering a backdrop ripe for Instagram captures and TikTok moments, ensuring a visual experience while awaiting your exquisite meal. In my eyes, the standout dishes were the warm salad of charcoal-grilled octopus—an extraordinary culinary feat, the yellowfin tuna crostini, and the impeccably fresh oysters. Each bite unveils a world of flavors, making these selections truly one-of-a-kind and unforgettable. To secure an optimal dining experience with the best view, book your reservation a couple weeks, if not a month, in advance. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the panoramic view while savoring Icebergs culinary creations.
Recommended Dishes:
Heirloom Tomato Carpaccio, Burraduc Buffalo Mozzarella and Finger Lime
Warm Salad of Charcoal Grilled Octopus, Peppers, and Goats Curd
Fries
Charcoal Roasted Beans, Prosciutto XO, and Chili
Westholme Wagyu Beef Tartare with Traditional Condiments and Rye Cracker, Mixed Tableside
Yellowfin Tuna Crostini, Potato Ciabatta and Fermented Chilli
Oysters
Tee Scale Rating: 8.4/10
SILKS
As another restaurant within the Crown Hotel, this contemporary Cantonese eatery offers a meticulously curated selection that delights the palate and the eye. From exquisite dumplings, each a testament to the artistry of handcrafting, to the twice cooked crispy skin chicken—an epitome of culinary perfection where succulence meets crunch—the menu promises a full stomach. A surprising delight awaits in the form of the vegetarian fried rice with black truffle, where the anticipated intensity of flavor gracefully yields to a subtle and pleasing taste profile. However, the true star of the dining experience lies in the dessert with the battered banana fritters accompanied by vanilla ice cream and caramel sauce. The interplay of temperatures and textures within this dessert is nothing short of impeccable and is a must try item. Whether to savor the exceptional desserts or indulge in the entirety of the menu, I advise you to make a reservation, particularly for dinner, in advance.
Recommended Dishes:
Trio of Dumplings
Vegetarian Premium Spring Rolls
Twice Cooked Crispy Skin Chicken, Five Spice and Lime
Vegetarian Fried Rice with Black Truffle
Battered Banana Fritters with Vanilla Ice Cream, Caramel Sauce and Sliced Pineapple
Tee Scale Rating: 7.2/10
