Where to Find the Best Surry Hills Restaurants

Armorica brings timeless charm and glamour to Surry Hills You’ve probably already heard of delicious European-inspired restaurants, Franca and Parlar, opened by Andrew Becher. The restaurateur has now opened his third, Armorica Grande Brasserie, in Surry Hills. Drawing on classic Parisian Brasserie culture and contemporary cuisine, Armorica is named after the ancient Celtic region that…

A recent addition, this charming wine bar beckons with an inviting atmosphere and an array of French-inspired delights that leave an indelible mark on your palate. With its snug ambience and a menu that evolves with French influences, Bar Copains has swiftly become a cherished afternoon retreat in the lively Surry Hills locale.

Acclaimed chef Lennox Hastie unveiled Gildas in 2022, the captivating wine bar echoing the flavours of the Basque Country. Drawing inspiration from Basque cuisine's reliance on local and authentic ingredients, Gildas promises a symphony of flavours, including lamb grilled over coals, cured meats, piquillo peppers, and artichokes.

We're spoiled for choice with Italian in Surry Hills, but Mille Vini never disappoints. This Crown Street favourite scored a major 2021 renovation, pairing fresh interiors with its historic 1840s bones. Head Chef Francesco Di Gioia serves regional classics, plus a must-try poached octopus salad.

Chef Dylan Cashman is paving the way for sustainable dining in Surry Hills. The Blue Door seats just 20 guests, with a menu built around local makers and growers. Expect a fresh lineup each week, reflecting the season's best produce.

Arthur is a cosy neighbourhood restaurant and wine bar on Surry Hills' leafy Bourke Street. Settle in for a curated set menu of modern Australian eats and drinks to match, perfect for date night. Native ingredients like Davidson plum and bush tomato take centre stage.

Rosie Campbell's is a vibrant Jamaican haven on the corner of Campbell and Crown Street. Step inside for bold patterns, colourful decor and vintage Caribbean memorabilia. The menu delivers authentic Jamaican favourites, think coconut pepper prawns, curry goat, oxtail stew, plantains and beef patties.

Chin Chin is an institution among Surry Hills restaurants, and foodies know it well. Set in the heritage-listed, 100-year-old Griffiths Teas Building, this modern Asian favourite serves bold, punchy share plates alongside creative cocktails. Good times are always guaranteed here.

From an airy dining room to an alfresco bar, The Dolphin is the iconic Surry Hills pub and restaurant that has it all. Set in the heart of Surry Hills on Crown Street, swing by for burgers, pizzas and elevated pub mains.

For Indian food that doesn't play by the rules, head to Surry Hills' Don't Tell Aunty, one of the most creative restaurants around. The menu spans every region of India, with Australian and American twists. Expect epic banquet feasts and the iconic butter chicken.

For a dining experience like no other, head to Surry Hills' Firedoor. With no gas or electricity in sight, every dish is cooked over wood-fired ovens, grills and a hearth. Chef Lennox Hastie, of Netflix's Chef's Table fame, fills tables months out, so book early.

Japanese ramen group Gogyo, famed for its signature burnt kogashi ramen, has landed its first Australian outpost in Surry Hills. Found on Albion Street in the old Salaryman site, this lively bar and ramen joint is made for lingering, cocktails and buzzing atmosphere included.

Henrietta is the new Middle Eastern-inspired charcoal chicken eatery landing in the heart of Surry Hills. Free-range charcoal chicken infused with warming Middle Eastern spices takes centre stage. Grab a whole or half bird, paired with flavourful sides like house-made hummus, tabbouleh and fattoush salads.

Nour is another Middle Eastern favourite, in the heart of Crown Street. From brunch to dinner and drinks, expect simple, colourful dishes doused in spice, think chicken shawarma, raw bluefin tuna and spiced beef short rib. The airy, light-filled space is perfect for long lunches.

Tucked into Surry Hills' backstreets, Nomad has been a favourite among Sydney foodies for years. It's a destination for serious wining and dining, backed by an extensive cellar sourced locally and abroad. The menu spans house-cured charcuterie, smoked trout basturma, halloumi and date-glazed wagyu tongue.

As Australia's only certified organic pasta brand, restaurant and cooking school, expect nothing short of exceptional at Surry Hills' Pasta Emilia. From beautiful sauces to hand-made pasta dishes, you'll want to come hungry to this delicious spot.

Located in Surry Hills' Paramount House Hotel, Poly is a luxe wine bar and restaurant serving up modern Australian dishes and top-notch drinks. From snapper crudos and oysters to classic cocktails and wine, you won't want to miss this must-visit dining spot.

Tucked away on Holt Street in Surry Hills, Porteño is an Argentinian BBQ joint designed to be enjoyed with friends. Serving up authentic dishes straight from the grill, watch your meal come to life using a traditional Parilla (BBQ) and Asado (pit of fire).

It might only seat a handful of tables, but SANG is undeniably serving up some of Sydney's best home-style Korean dishes. Pull up a stool at the bar, grab a glass of vino and let this family-run restaurant serve you refined Korean dishes you've never tasted before.

Opened in January 2022, Pellegrino 2000 is fast becoming one of Surry Hills' best Italian restaurants. From the founders of Potts Point's Bistrot 916 comes this trattoria, serving classics like spaghetti vongole and lamb shoulder ragu pappardelle. Moody lighting sets the scene for unforgettable nights.

Spice I Am is a regular fixture on Sydney's best Thai lists, and it's easy to see why. This always-bustling, unpretentious BYO joint is a favourite among locals, and honestly, one of ours too. Expect flavour-packed, fiery dishes that are seriously hard to top.

From the open kitchen to shelves of fresh, preserved produce, you're in for a treat when you step into Shaffa. Tucked beside a heritage church and 19th-century inn, this Middle Eastern spot serves share plates inspired by Tel Aviv, think octopus and lima bean hummus.

For the love of pasta, Giuls is a must-visit, a laid-back modern Italian restaurant serving classics with a twist. Inspired by Tuscany, expect dishes like orecchiette with nduja sauce and conchiglie with vodka, pancetta and taleggio, paired with signature cocktails and an Italian-focused wine list.

This award-winning Japanese restaurant in Surry Hills is a must-visit. The Izakaya menu is made to share, featuring a selection of nigiri, baby sushi rolls, hot dishes such as the tuna belly karaage, and grilled dishes. With amazing service and an impressive selection of sake and Japanese beer.