Exploring Sydney's Vibrant Coffee and Breakfast Scene
Discover Sydney's thriving cafe culture, where you can indulge in a wide variety of culinary delights. From the trendy Paper Plane in Parramatta to the charming Belgrave Cartel in Manly, Sydney's coffee scene offers an abundance of excellent options.
As a food enthusiast, I was pleasantly surprised to find my favorite cafe in Newtown, where the menu boasted fresh and flavorful dishes that didn't overwhelm my Irish palate. One standout is Store Espresso's Fowler Street branch, which serves a delectable breakfast burger topped with crispy bacon and the iconic Australian ingredient – beetroot.
If you're lucky enough to experience Sydney's beautiful weather, make the most of it by borrowing blankets and enjoying your meal in one of the city's picturesque parks. Here, you'll be treated to exceptional service as your breakfast and coffee are brought right to your cozy picnic spot.
For those seeking a trendy spot to relax and sip on a refreshing iced long black, look no further than Ruby's Diner. Located in a bustling neighborhood, this cafe promises a memorable experience that encapsulates Sydney's vibrant energy.
If you're in the mood for a cozy afternoon treat, head to Badde Manors in Glebe. Open until midnight, this eccentric cafe offers a diverse menu featuring delightful options like chai lattes, aromatic teas, and delectable slices of cake.
Exploring Sydney's cafe and breakfast scene is truly a delightful adventure, allowing you to savor the city's diverse culinary landscape. From the bustling Paramount in Surry Hills to the endearingly quirky Badde Manors in Glebe, each cafe embodies its own unique charm, making Sydney a haven for food lovers.
Bushwalk, a hop, skip and jump from the city centre
The most stunning trek I have done anywhere in Australia is the Spit to Manly walk. It is 10km that takes you along the harbourside cliffs on the northside into Manly. Catch a bus or split an Uber to the Spit bridge on the north shore and spend the next few hours marvelling at the harbour views, knowing that at the end of the walk there’ll be plenty of burger and pub options waiting in Manly (this is why I start at the Spit bridge end). The walk is not too strenuous, but you have to be fit enough to walk 10km. There are views across the harbour from some points and there’s also Aboriginal rock art along the way and some graffiti from someone who camped there 150-ish years ago.
The keen-eyed will spot the semi-legendary squatters’ camp at the base of one of the cliffs (once I saw two people jumping off the rocks for a swim while another fished). There are plenty of spots to swim along the way at delightful partially-hidden harbour beaches. Once at Manly, if you still have a little life in you it’s worth walking the extra 15 minutes to Shelly Beach for one last swim before catching the ferry back to the city.
Asian food wherever you roam
Thanks to immigration and the stellar quality of Australian ingredients, great Asian cuisine abounds in Sydney, from cheap lunches eaten at plastic tables to beautiful high-end restaurants. Dixon House food court (Little Hay Street, Haymarket ) is a personal favourite and, while everything is worth sampling, I always return to the Sichuan soup noodles at Face2Face noodles. Eat lunch there with students and office workers or have an early dinner before heading to the theatre or a movie: you can buy wine by the miniature bottle and beer by the stubbie.
The laksa at Happy Chef Noodle restaurant in Sussex Street Centre is unsurpassed in Sydney. I was introduced to it by my father, who was introduced to it by a friend, probably before I was born. For a nicer dining “experience” visit New Shanghai in Pitt Street mall – do not be put off by the fact it’s in a mall, it has lovely restaurant-y feel and the pan-fried pork buns are delicious. If willing to venture beyond the city centre, take the 50-minute train trip to Cabramatta – a foodie destination for Vietnamese, Thai and Chinese – for crispy chicken at Tan Viet Noodle House (100 John Street).
Tennis with a harbour view
When visiting Sydney, taking a ferry ride is a must-do experience. While Manly and Kirribilli are popular choices, I recommend venturing off the beaten path and catching a ferry to Cockatoo Island, a hidden gem in Sydney's beautiful harbor. Here, you can enjoy a game of tennis on the island's tennis court, which offers breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. For less than $20, you can rent racquets and balls and engage in a friendly match with your companions.
Situated on a cliff, the tennis court provides a secure environment with a sturdy fence to prevent any lost balls, although my mischievous little brother once managed to send a few into the unknown. The island's historical significance lies in its past as a convict settlement, and as a result, it is recognized as a UNESCO heritage-listed site due to the preservation of some of its original structures. I encourage you to explore the rest of the island and discover the remnants of its intriguing history.
However, it's important to note that certain sections of Cockatoo Island feature direct access to the water, so if you are accompanied by energetic young children, it is wise to exercise caution. Without a doubt, a visit to Cockatoo Island promises a unique and unforgettable experience, immersing you in both Sydney's natural beauty and captivating heritage.
The pub(s) with grub and games
When it comes to watering holes, my tastes are not what you would call sophisticated. But if you want to visit a slightly run-down local with plenty of atmosphere then the Huntsbury in Petersham is for you. It has a surprisingly good wine list (including a delightful French rosé) and the best chicken schnitzel (A$14, about £8) I’ve had in Sydney, as well as weekly meat-tray raffle – a great Antipodean pub tradition. The meals are hearty – it doesn’t charge $28 for a burger, it’s more like $12. The eight pool tables branded with alcohol advertising add to the ambience.
For a beer with a view and barefoot bowls (an Aussie pastime) head to the Clovelly Bowling Club, which sits on a cliff looking across the Pacific. I take all visitors to the Glenmore at the Rocks, a grand old pub (by Sydney standards) in one of the oldest parts of the city.
My favourite beach
Although Sydney is renowned for its iconic ocean beaches like Bondi, I find the charm of its harbor beaches to be particularly enchanting. One such gem is Parsley Bay, where you can indulge in delicious treats from the cute kiosk while enjoying the added comfort of protective shark nets. With its inviting atmosphere, you can easily spend a delightful day swimming and relaxing here. Additionally, just a short distance away, you'll find Nielsen Park, a slightly busier but equally captivating beach. While it goes by the name "Shark Beach," don't let that deter you from exploring its beauty.
Did you know that Parsley Bay is not only a popular swimming spot, but it also offers stunning cliffside walking tracks for nature enthusiasts? Take a stroll and revel in the breathtaking coastal views. As for Nielsen Park, its popularity stems from not only its picturesque shoreline but also its historical significance. The park is home to the historic Greycliffe House, a grand mansion built in the 1850s, which now serves as a maritime museum. So, in addition to enjoying the sun and sand, you can immerse yourself in Sydney's rich heritage when visiting this beach.
Have a laugh
Sydney Theatre, Belvoir St Theatre and the Lyric Theatre are all fine establishments to see a show, but almost every week I find myself at Giant Dwarf in Redfern. Run by a group of comedians, Giant Dwarf is a major supporter of emerging talent and hosts Australia’s best comedians, as well as live recordings of political podcasts and a variety of shows conceived by young performers. Most nights you will not pay more than $25 for whatever show is on. Story Club – a random selection of fascinating people telling true stories on a given a theme – is a classic that has been running for years. Nailed It, where writers, journalists and comedians lampoon the issues of the day, is another personal favourite. I’ve never had a disappointing night there. If you want to get cultural, White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale has imaginative and original exhibitions but is still a locals’ secret.
Make time (and room) for dinner
If you're looking for a trendy and delicious dining experience in Sydney, Ester in Chippendale is the place to go. This popular restaurant has maintained its excellent service, impressive food selection, and extensive wine list, all without the hassle of long waiting times. Grab a friend and enjoy a relaxing evening together, sipping on a few glasses of wine and indulging in their delectable offerings such as the potato bread, whole roasted cauliflower, and a satisfying main course. Alternatively, gather a group and opt for the reasonably priced set menu at $75 per person.
Fratelli Fresh, a beloved Italian eatery with multiple locations in Sydney, including my personal favorite in Alexandria, is another fantastic dining option. With a menu that never fails to impress, one dish that I highly recommend is the linguine pangrattato priced at $19. Whether you visit for the first time or are a regular customer, this flavorful pasta dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
A centre for shopping
If you're looking for the ultimate outlet shopping experience in Sydney, look no further than Birkenhead Point. This shopping center is a haven for fashion lovers, with outlets for popular brands like David Jones, Alannah Hill, Saba, Country Road, Witchery, and Billabong. But the real gem at Birkenhead Point is Mimco, my personal favorite store in the center.
Not only does Birkenhead Point offer a wide range of clothing and accessories, but it also has something for everyone. From electronics and swimsuits to fitness brands and lingerie shops, you'll find it all here. What's more, the shopping center is located by the picturesque Parramatta river, providing breathtaking views while you shop. And when hunger strikes, you'll be pleasantly surprised by the excellent selection of dining options available.
So if you're planning a shopping trip to Sydney, make sure to check out these hotel deals in Sydney. Staying in the city center would allow for easier accessibility to these wonderful shopping spots.
If you're in the mood for more shopping adventures, make sure to visit the Queen Victoria building. This iconic Sydney landmark is known for its extravagant architecture and is a must-see for any shopaholic. While you may have to spend a bit more, the shopping experience you'll have here is well worth it.
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Classy cocktails
Marble Bar, a historical venue that has been around since 1889, is a true testament to its enduring charm. With a 2005 refurbishment that preserved its beautiful furniture, ornate ceiling, and grand solid bar, it continues to enchant visitors. A visit to this iconic establishment wouldn't be complete without indulging in their American-style cocktail menu, which features both classic favorites and intriguing combinations. To add to the allure, happy 'hour' is extended to two hours during the week, offering $15 signature cocktails.
While Hubert may be the current talk of the town, it would be remiss not to give due credit to their exceptional bar. Nestled in the financial district, the bar at Hubert impresses with its delectable Peach bellini and delectable steak frites from the bar menu. For those looking to sample locally distilled gin, Archie Rose is a must-visit crowd-pleaser. Their distillery venture allows visitors to take a bottle of their own gin home as a keepsake, making it a perfect memento of your Sydney holiday.