How You Can Help Sydney’s Dining Scene Stay Afloat

Eat, Sydney / 23 April 2024

Another day, another closure. Here’s how you can save your Sydney faves.

Sydney restaurants are struggling to stay afloat. Whether it’s rising rates, the cost of living crisis, an overcrowded market, or the surge of new openings, Sydney’s restaurants are going under.

Our hearts sink a little every time we hear of another closure in Sydney. This week, it’s Potts Point’s beloved Indian restaurant, Raja, which has closed its doors after just under a year in business. You can show them your support by booking before Saturday 4th May, when they’ll serve up their final thali. Alternatively, you can check out the group’s other venue, Ezra, where they’re serving up Middle Eastern flavours just down the road from Raja.

Raja Interior

The week prior Botswana Butchery announced administration. Sydney’s restaurant scene feels like a revolving door lately. These closures are more than just a loss of dining options – they mean job losses for our friends and communities. Here are some ways to support your favourite Sydney restaurants, even when budgets are tight.

Eat Out More

Dining out doesn’t always have to be expensive. Make use of happy hours, there is no shortage of them around Sydney, here are some of our favourites.

Add some excitement to your day in the office by going for an express lunch, and they’re a great way to make business meetings feel a bit more casual. Looking for a quick and delicious lunch in Barangaroo? Check out Callao‘s express lunch from 12-3 pm.

It doesn’t always have to be a 3-course meal, show your support by stopping by for a glass of wine or dessert. Here are some of our favourite Sydney wine bars.

Buy A Gift Voucher

Skip the stress of finding the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Gift vouchers are the ultimate hassle-free present. Surprise Mum with a gift card for her favourite restaurant – most places even let you buy and send them online in minutes. It’s the perfect last-minute solution! Looking to treat a friend for their birthday? Grab a voucher for your favourite spot and hope they bring you as their plus one (it’s a win-win!).

Share The Love On Social Media

Next time you eat out, take a picture of your meal and share it to your story or feed, tagging where you are. Those delicious photos work like free advertising for the restaurant and can make all the difference!

Re-visit Your Old Favourites

Sydney’s restaurant scene is sizzling with fresh openings, but don’t let the shiny new distract you from your old favourites. Menus evolve! Make an effort to re-visit your old favourites, there might be something new on their updated menus.

Sydney’s restaurant scene is booming with new additions, but by being mindful of the struggles restaurants are facing, and incorporating these suggestions, you can make all the difference.