Cafe Sydney
1 / 5

Cafe Sydney

4.6
·491k reviews·,

A rooftop icon offering stunning Sydney harbour views and Modern Australian cuisine. Celebrated for its quality and polished service.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed/Fri 18-21h

Blue hour photography, calmer galleries

CrowdLow
Cafe Sydney

Cafe Sydney

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rooftop icon offering stunning Sydney harbour views and Modern Australian cuisine. Celebrated for its quality and polished service.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Experience unforgettable dining with spectacular views and exceptional food that truly captures Sydney's essence."

TIP

Book in Advance

Reservations are essential, especially for weekends or special events. Consider booking early.

Enjoy Daytime Views

Visit during lunchtime to experience the stunning daytime harbor views and a different perspective.

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Quick Facts

Open·Closes 10:30PM

Cuisine

Modern Australian

Price

$$$

Phone

+61 2 9251 8683

Address

Level 5 Customs House, 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia

Insta-Factor

High

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Unbeatable Harbour Views

Unbeatable Harbour Views

Dine with iconic panoramas of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, perfect for any occasion.

Fresh Seafood Platter

Fresh Seafood Platter

A towering selection of exquisite seafood, showcasing the freshest catches from Sydney's waters.

The 21 best restaurants in SydneyGoogle Review
Modern Australian Cuisine

Modern Australian Cuisine

High-quality dishes featuring seasonal produce, expertly prepared to match the spectacular setting.

Top 30 Best Fine dining in SydneyGoogle Review
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Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Book in Advance

Reservations are essential, especially for weekends or special events. Consider booking early.

Enjoy Daytime Views

Visit during lunchtime to experience the stunning daytime harbor views and a different perspective.

Explore Seafood Options

The seafood platter is a must-try. Ask staff for recommendations on wine pairings.

Terrace Table Request

Request a terrace table for the best views, even in cooler weather, as it can be surprisingly warm.

Tips

from all over the internet

Book in Advance

Reservations are essential, especially for weekends or special events. Consider booking early.

Enjoy Daytime Views

Visit during lunchtime to experience the stunning daytime harbor views and a different perspective.

Explore Seafood Options

The seafood platter is a must-try. Ask staff for recommendations on wine pairings.

Terrace Table Request

Request a terrace table for the best views, even in cooler weather, as it can be surprisingly warm.

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cafe Sydney is highly praised for its breathtaking harbour views and excellent service, creating a memorable dining experience. While many rave about the high-quality food, particularly the seafood, some find certain dishes lack balance or have an unbalanced flavor profile, and a few mention that the view may not be fully unobstructed from all seats. The atmosphere is generally described as sophisticated and enjoyable.

"I stopped by Café Sydney for a quick lunch ( I have a reservation ) on a sunny, scorching day. While the most picturesque tables were empty due to the heat, I was still able to move to a shaded spot near the private room that offered a lovely view of the harbour.

The food was fresh and flavorful. The seafood platter was naturally sweet and perfectly chilled, the scallops were delicately seasoned, and the grilled fish was tender and satisfying. Even the simple salad was vibrant and refreshing.

With the strong sunlight pouring in, every dish looked stunning in photos — a visual treat to go with the delicious meal. Café Sydney continues to impress with both its culinary quality and its iconic setting above Circular Quay. 🌊"

ARTYOS

"An absolutely perfect experience with a breathtaking view over Circular Quay!
The meal was an absolute delight – high-quality dishes prepared with fresh, flavourful ingredients. Every plate was a little masterpiece, both visually and in taste.

A huge thank you to Francesco for his warm welcome and infectious good mood. From the moment we arrived, he took the time to explain each dish with passion and precision, making the whole experience even more memorable. His professionalism and enthusiasm are a true asset to the restaurant.

We will definitely be back!"

Sahra Ta

"We have heard so much about Cafe Sydney… can only say now after finally going there, why has it taken us so long. Can not fault. 10/10 for everything. Service, food,, drinks, ambience. We also booked a terrace table on a really cold winters night and it was warm, intimate with the stunning views they are famous for. Will definately be back. Sensational!"

Sage Dempsey

What People Like

Breathtaking harbour views
Attentive and passionate service
High-quality, fresh seafood

What People Dislike

Inconsistent flavor balance in some dishes
View can be partially obstructed
Some dishes under-seasoned

Frequently Asked Questions

The restaurant offers stunning views during both daytime and evening. Lunchtime provides a different perspective of the harbour compared to the glittering night skyline.

The Best Restaurants in Sydney Right NowGoogle Review

Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekends and popular times, as the restaurant can get very busy.

Top 30 Best Fine dining in SydneyGoogle Review+1

Cafe Sydney is renowned for its panoramic views of Sydney Harbour, high-quality Modern Australian cuisine, and attentive service. The seafood platter is a standout.

The Best Restaurants in Sydney Right NowThe 21 best restaurants in SydneyBest Sydney Waterfront Restaurants With A View

Requesting a table on the terrace is recommended for optimal views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

The Best Restaurants In Sydney For A Long LunchGoogle Review

Yes, Cafe Sydney has an all-day, dedicated plant-based menu that showcases local produce.

Best Vegan Fine-Dining Restaurants In Sydney

The restaurant serves Modern Australian cuisine, with a focus on fresh seafood and seasonal produce.

Top 30 Best Fine dining in SydneyBest Restaurants in Circular Quay for Locals and Visitors (2025)

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Time Out

The Best Restaurants in Sydney Right Now

A Sydney stalwart serving up some of the city’s best views over lunch or dinner. Why we love it: Located atop Customs House right in the heart of Circular Quay, Cafe Sydney has the kind of vistas that make you feel proud to call Sydney home. And while some may say you can find fresher, more innovative spots elsewhere, consistency, class and polished service never go out of style – which makes sense when you consider the fine diner celebrated 25 years in 2024.

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Take the glass elevator up to the top of Circular Quay’s Customs House, and make your way to a seat on Cafe Sydney’s sprawling terrace. It’s one of the best seats in town, overlooking The Bridge, The House, and the glittering harbour peppered with chugging ferries in between. The famed seafood platter, a towering abundance of scampi, prawns, marron, Moreton Bay bugs, crab and oysters, is one of the restaurant’s star dishes.

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Not only is Cafe Sydney known as an iconic dining experience, but it is also usually the first name on anyone’s lips when wanting to enjoy delicious food with a breathtaking view of the Sydney CBD bustling away in the background. Referred to as the “jewel in the crown of the Customs House”, Cafe Sydney offers the most spectacular views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Harbour from its rooftop location in the Customs House. With stunning views this good, the food has to equally match – and their executive chef pulls out all the stops.

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The Best Restaurants In Sydney For A Long Lunch

Perched on the top floor and terrace of the historic Customs House, your long lunch will feature a breathtaking view of the Bridge, Opera House, and sparkling Sydney Harbour. Make sure you book a table on the balcony, settle in with a spritz or an espresso martini, or indulge in a plate of Cafe Sydney’s extra-fresh Sydney Rock oysters. The menu is polished modern Australian and ticks off things like tuna tartare with smoked trout roe, ricotta gnocchi, braised beef cheek and roasted pork belly.

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Cafe Sydney offers diners a unique fine dining culinary experience with its stunning harbour views of Sydney Harbour and contemporary Australian cuisine. Specializing in fresh seafood and seasonal produce, the restaurant's menu reflects the diversity and abundance of flavors found in the region. With its sophisticated yet relaxed ambiance and attentive service, Cafe Sydney provides the perfect setting for both casual lunches and special occasions.

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Best Restaurants in Circular Quay for Locals and Visitors (2025)

Cafe Sydney has been a pillar of excellence for more than 20 years, and understandably so. Often hailed as one of the best restaurants in Circular Quay, let alone the world, its impressive menu is filled with delicate meats and seafood, truly encapsulating the essence of Sydney, but we can’t discount their breathtaking views of the harbour. Located on the rooftop of Customs House, Cafe Sydney is iconic and quintessentially Australian.

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Set on the rooftop of the historic Customs House building in Circular Quay, a 180-degree panorama of Sydney Harbour unfurls in front of diners at Cafe Sydney. And don’t let the name fool you – this is no cafe. Instead, you can expect an effortlessly stylish dining room, attentive service and a menu that heroes Australian ingredients like Moreton Bay bugs, Queensland prawns, Humpty Doo barramundi and Sydney rock oysters.

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Located at the top of Customs House in the heart of Circular Quay, not only does Cafe Sydney have the most breathtaking view of the Harbour Bridge, it also serves up delicious plates of fresh Australian produce. Known for their creative dishes and cocktails, dining at Cafe Sydney surely will not disappoint. The establishment is refreshingly open concept, taking advantage of the glorious Sydney Harbour sky.

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The scene: Café Sydney truly captures the essence of the city from its incredible location perched on the rooftop of Customs House with sweeping harbour views, gourmet food and a relaxed, contemporary interior. The alluring panorama with the Sydney Harbour Bridge front and centre is visible from practically every seat in the restaurant. So no matter where you are, you’re guaranteed a gorgeous backdrop.

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Head to the rooftop of Customs House for an unforgettable dining experience in Sydney. With spectacular harbour views, Cafe Sydney has built its reputation over the past 20 years as one of the city’s most iconic dining destinations. The all-day, dedicated plant-based menu showcases the finest local produce and can be enjoyed in their outdoor terrace, cocktail lounge or relaxed, contemporary interior.

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Did you know Cafe Sydney is a vegan friendly restaurant in Sydney?. Cafe Sydney is not only a fantastic fine dining restaurant in Sydney with an amazing view of Sydney Harbour, it’s a great restaurant to spend the evening with people who have various dietary requirements. This is an excellent restaurant for a special date or to impress anyone with the fantastic views of the harbour and great service.

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Café Sydney is a must-visit dining spot, particularly during Vivid, thanks to its chic interiors, stunning harbour views, and rooftop location. What sets it apart from other venues is that it sits atop one of the most beloved Vivid projections – a Ken Done extravaganza – on the façade of the Customs House, a heritage-listed building. As a result, diners can bask in the heart of the action.

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The restaurant: Capturing the essence of Sydney from its stunning rooftop location, Cafe Sydney is the perfect place to head for breakfast, brunch and lunch. The view: This cafe offers spectacular harbour views from the rooftop of Customs House, with an outdoor terrace and cocktail lounge. The impressive views stretch out over the water toward the Harbour Bridge and Opera House.

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I have had many a long lunch on the balcony at Cafe Sydney, which feels very much like sitting in the dress circle of Sydney Harbour. If you would like to be seated on the terrace, you really need to make a reservation. I find the serving sizes are more generous here than at the previous restaurants, so if you have a hearty appetite, you might be happier here.

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The sweeping harbour views from Cafe Sydney, located on the rooftop of Sydney's Customs House alone warrants a visit to this fine establishment. But stay and enjoy a meal, or a late-night cocktail - their Salted Carmel Martini maybe?. - with a delectable dessert - their Valrhona chocolate tart, with rosewater ice cream and Turkish delight?

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Located in Circular Quay with views of Sydney Harbour and just steps away from the Opera House, Cafe Sydney is one of the most iconically Sydney locations on our list. Floor to ceiling views, dark timber from other demolished historical buildings, and lots of metalwork give an industrial feel that works so well in the city.

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For unrivalled views over Sydney Harbour and the awe inspiring Sydney Harbour Bridge, there are few better places to head than Café Sydney. Café Sydney is an indoor rooftop restaurant that despite its casual café moniker is sophisticated in style and offers a fantastic contemporary Australian dinner menu.

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A favorite place in the city, Café Sydney boasts an exquisite selection of food and drinks at an affordable price. As if this isn’t convincing enough for you to stop by, you’re promised a breathtaking sight of the ocean and the setting sun. These two combined guarantee an evening to remember.

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Located on top of Customs House, this rooftop place is more than a restaurant; it offers stunning views of the harbor and Opera House too. It's perfect for romantic dates or impressing clients, with its stylish decor and elegant vibe. Why we love it: There's so much to love about Cafe Sydney.

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Located at the top of Customers House, the cafe guarantees you a spectacular view of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor as you sip on Australian-grown and brewed coffee. Address: 5 Sydney Customs House, 31 Alfred St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia. Phone Number: (02) 9251 8683

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