Happy New Year, Sydney! With the festive season behind us, January is the perfect time to kick off the year with fresh experiences.
From culinary delights to creative workshops, this month has something for everyone — whether you’re a foodie or simply looking to try something new.
Here’s our guide to the best things to eat, see, and do in Sydney this January.
Sailmaker Kitchen Table: A Unique Seafood Experience
In exciting news Sailmaker Restaurant at Hyatt Regency Sydney has launched its Kitchen Table, an exclusive dining experience that’s a true treat for seafood lovers. Sailmaker’s Kitchen Table offers an intimate, multi-course journey showcasing sustainable, locally sourced seafood. Available on the last Thursday of each month with only ten seats available, guests enjoy front-row views of the kitchen as Executive Chef Sven Ullrich and his team offer a special glimpse into expert preparation techniques and inspiration behind the restaurants most luxurious dishes.
The experience includes sparkling wine and canapés on arrival, an interactive cooking demonstration by Sailmaker chefs, followed by tapas, shared family-style entrées, and a plated main course, all expertly paired with the finest wines from New South Wales, personalised to taste by Sailmaker’s resident wine expert. To complete the evening, Sailmaker rolls out their signature dessert trolley with a mouth-watering display of sweet treats to enjoy.
Sailmaker’s next Kitchen Table will take place on Thursday 30th January, bookings can be made here or a private dining experience for 10 or more guests is available on request.
Free Movies at The Rocks Laneway Cinema
Looking for a laid-back, free evening out? Head to The Rocks for the Laneway Cinema, where you can enjoy a range of movies under the stars. Nestled in the cobblestone lanes, this cozy outdoor cinema features a giant screen surrounded by bean bags and deck chairs, creating the perfect setting for a relaxed night out. Grab some popcorn or a drink from the Hickson House pop-up cart and settle in for a film. Entry is free, but to secure the best seats, be sure to register for your free ticket in advance. Walk-ins are welcome too!
This January, Laneway Cinema is kicking off the new year with a month of comedy films. They’re also supporting Support Act, the charity helping music industry workers in need, by encouraging movie-goers to make a “pay as you feel” donation. All proceeds from popcorn sales (with a minimum $2 donation) will go to this worthy cause. So grab a blanket, enjoy a movie, and support a good cause at the same time!
Sip into Summer with Grain Bar’s ‘Summer of Gin’
Grain Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel Sydney is serving up the ultimate summer pairing with their ‘Summer of Gin’ activation, running now through March 6th. Gin enthusiasts and oyster lovers are in for a treat, with this special experience offering a curated menu of elevated Gin Martinis or a build-your-own G&T, perfectly paired with half a dozen premium Sydney Rock Oysters— for $34 per person.
Choose from standout local gins like Grain Bar Gin (crafted with Bondi Liquor Co.), Hickson House Oyster Shell, and Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz, then personalise your tonic and garnish with the help of Grain Bar’s expert team. Available Monday to Thursday, from 5pm to 7pm, it’s the perfect post work treat. Book your spot here.
NEL’s Native Australia Menu Is Back
From January 14 to June 14, NEL in Surry Hills invites diners to experience the return of its iconic Native Australia menu. This 12-course degustation, crafted by chef Nelly Robinson, celebrates Australia’s unique native ingredients with dishes like Wildfire Murray Cod and Native Curry Crab, alongside a Tim Tam-inspired Wattleseed Australia dessert.
Priced at $185 per person ($155 optional beverage pairing), this culinary journey blends sustainability, creativity, and local produce. Available for dinner Tuesday to Saturday—book now to secure your spot.
Franca’s $20 Happy Meal
Franca Brasserie is putting a gourmet spin on the humble Happy Meal with its latest offering, launching this evening from 5:00 PM. For just $20, diners can indulge in a decadent Cheeseburger and Fries, paired with their choice of a classic Negroni or Martini. Set against Franca’s chic brasserie backdrop, it’s the ultimate midweek treat for those looking to elevate their casual dining experience without breaking the bank.
This limited-time offer is available weeknights only (Tuesday to Friday) from January 7th to January 17th, between 5pm and 6pm. With no bookings required and walk-ins only, it’s the perfect excuse to kick back, relax, and treat yourself to a luxury dinner on a budget.
Chiswick Gardening Classes
Little green thumbs, assemble! Chiswick is bringing back its beloved kids’ gardening classes just in time to cap off the school holidays. On January 22nd and 29th, from 11am to 12pm, Chiswick’s head gardener Pete Hatfield will lead budding horticulturists on a hands-on adventure through the restaurant’s lush garden.
Kids can explore the buzzing bug hotel, marvel at the thriving veg patch, and learn the secrets of solar-powered butterfly scarers, all while discovering how Chiswick’s garden-to-table ethos comes to life. After working up an appetite, families staying for lunch can treat the little ones to a meal on the house (yep, kids eat free!). Find more information here.
a’Mare x Aperol at The Crown
Bring a slice of Italian summer to your evenings at a’Mare’s Aperol terrace sessions. From now until January 31st, unwind Monday to Friday from 4pm to 7pm with $15 Aperol Spritzes and classic Italian cocktails served with a creative twist. Set against the stunning Sydney Harbour backdrop, Fridays ramp up the energy with DJ sets, making it the perfect spot to clock off and lounge in style. Pair your drinks with a selection of signature Italian snacks, and toast to summer with la dolce vita vibes!
