Tight on time and money but craving something tasty for lunch? Sydney CBD has some delicious deals that won’t drain your wallet.
Have brown bag blues? Forgot lunch? Craving something new? Whatever the reason, Sydney’s lunch scene offers delicious lunch deals that won’t break the bank. Here are our picks for the best wallet-friendly lunches in Sydney CBD. Tuck in!
Martinez, Circular Quay
Terrace lunch specials at Martinez mean a $20 lunch with a view every Monday to Thursday. Available 11.30am-3pm. Specials rotate but currently include a $20 barramundi fillet or minute steak on Monday, two drool-worthy pasta options on Tuesday, a choice of two hearty burgers on Wednesday and a succulent chicken schnitty or braised lamb option on Thursday. Learn more and book here.
Sydney Common, Elizabeth St.
CBD lunch just had a sizzling upgrade! Sydney Common, the newest hatted restaurant in town has launched a $45 lunch. Their renowned wood-fired Aussie fare is ideal for an express lunch or leisurely catch-up, all with stunning Hyde Park views. Choose your flame-kissed main – perfectly grilled steak, fresh fish, or a delightful veggie option. A house wine or beer is included, all for just $45. The lunch is available on Thursday and Friday from 12 pm to 3 pm. It’s located in the heart of the CBD, but do not fret – 2-hour parking is included at the hotel’s on-site car park. Book your table here.
Callao, Barangaroo
Callao is where Peruvian and Japanese flavours meet for aesthetically pleasing, flavoursome dishes in Barangaroo. Enjoy a 2-course ($49pp) or 3-course ($59pp) weekday express lunch (from 12 pm -3 pm) featuring their much-loved vibrant salmon ceviche and ox cheek. Nikkei at its finest, all within an hour! Book here.
Alegre, King St. Wharf
Alegre is a taste of Mexico with unbeatable Sydney Harbour views on your lunch break. Until 1st November, for just $39 per person, enjoy a meal featuring 2 dishes or for $49 per person a meal featuring 3 dishes crafted for on-the-go lunches eager to satisfy weekday Mexican cravings. From tacos with al pastor chicken or BBQ prawns to a juicy Jack’s Creek sirloin, this express lunch lets you savour delicious Mexican cuisine without sacrificing your precious time. Available weekdays from 12 pm to 3 pm. Make a booking here.
Esteban, Temperance Lane
Experience a modern take on Mexican cuisine at Esteban, a hatted gem in the heart of the CBD. Their Almuerzo Pequeño (little lunch) deal generously rolls over into the weekend, with a 3-course set menu available Wednesday to Saturday. For just $65pp, start with the mouthwatering yellowfin tuna tartare, followed by prawn tacos in handmade corn tortillas. Finally, relish the butcher’s choice steak with black garlic & chipotle butter, served with Esteban’s signature potatoes. The deal is available from 12 pm – 2.30 pm, click here for more details and to book.
Arisun, Chinatown
Arisun is known for cheap eats, fueling Sydneysiders’ love affair with Korean food. At lunch, you can grab one of their bento boxes with a drink from just $21.90. Choose from L.A. beef ribs, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu brisket, or other options like teriyaki chicken or pork katsu. Each box comes with a generous mix of sides like sashimi salmon, mixed tempuras, kimchi, and miso soup. Explore the full bento box menu here.
Belles Hot Chicken, Multiple Locations
Belles may have been born in Melbourne, but it has since put roots down in Sydney’s Barangaroo, Circular Quay, and Bondi. This icon knows great chicken, but it also knows a finger-lickin’ good lunch deal. Sink your teeth into bottomless Belles chicken wings, signature crinkle fries, and slaw for 90 minutes – all for $30, with flowing drinks available for an extra $35 (choose from Belles original draught, spiked peach iced tea, or spiked lemonade!). More details here.
Oti, Pailings Lane
Totti’s on the go? Hold on, it’s actually Oti! They’re serving to-go lunch deals with their loaded pizza slices for $12-$15 and stuffed sandwiches for $15-$20. Both are made fresh and fast, with toppings and fillings ranging from classics like prosciutto and salami to adventurous options like smoked chicken and beef tongue. With a menu curated by Merivale’s Executive Chef, Mike Eggert, you know it’ll be delicious. Oti’s is take-away only, perfect for a grab-and-go lunch if you’re in the CBD. Find out more here.
Cancun Boat Club, Loftus St.
Looking for a delicious and affordable lunch with a Mexican flair? Cancun Boat Club has answered your prayers! From Tuesday to Friday, check out their $20 lunch special with your choice of burritos, fajitas, or nachos, served with a beer or wine. Plus, expect $1 oysters every Tuesday to Friday between 12 pm and 5 pm. Taco and marg lovers (A.K.A. everyone), score $5 tacos and 2-for-1 margaritas all day Tuesday! More details here.
Escape your day job and step out into a scene of flavour and value. Whether you want something quick and casual, or more refined and up-market, there’s a perfect lunch deal waiting for you in the Sydney CBD.
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