Vivid Sydney Restaurant Guide - Where to eat during Vivid!

Want to know where to dine out for Vivid Sydney? We've put together a list of the best restaurants to take in the sights, sounds and tastes!

Vivid Sydney is finally back, baby! Sydney's iconic festival of lights and ideas is taking over Sydney from 27 May to 18 June 2022 with a jam-packed program of events and experiences.

Whether you're checking out the dazzling lights, attending a live show or just soaking up the atmosphere, we've put together a list of top restaurants where you can drink, dine and enjoy the spectacle. Plan ahead and start booking some of the tastiest restaurants around!

ARIA Sydney

1 Macquarie Street, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Australian

What to expect: Unrivalled views and a meal you won't forget 

There aren’t many locations that are quite as iconic as ARIA Sydney to take in the dazzling light-show. This award winning, two hatted restaurant at Circular Quay sits on the very edge of Sydney's glistening Harbour with spectacular views of the Opera House and beyond. Here the delicate touches, the time taken, the passion shown and the sincerity of delivery all play a part in the performance of fine dining. BOOK NOW >

Cruise Bar

Level 1, Circular Quay West, 2000 The Rocks (NSW) | Australian

What to expect: A 'cruisey', relaxed atmosphere with sweeping Harbour views

If you’re after a lively spot to take in sweeping views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and waterfront harbour life, Cruise Bar is the perfect destination. Sit back with a cocktail and delicious meal and watch the city come alive! BOOK NOW > 

The East Chinese Restaurant

1 Macquarie St, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Chinese

What to expect: An authentic Chinese dining experience on the Harbour

Perched beside the Opera House with spectacular views of Sydney Harbour Bridge, The East is Sydney’s leading fine dining Chinese restaurant serving up authentic Chinese cuisine that's perfect for sharing with the whole family. Enjoy the best of Chinese cuisine while taking in the best views in Sydney.  BOOK NOW >

Fish at The Rocks

29 Kent St, 2000 Millers Point (NSW) | Seafood

What to expect: Delightful seafood in an iconic location

Opened in 1988, Fish at The Rocks has solidified its place as one of Sydney’s (and Australia’s) most loved seafood restaurants. With a focus on celebrating fresh, Australian seafood and a reputation for providing exceptional customer service, there’s a reason that this iconic Millers Point establishment continues to draw crowds over three decades on. BOOK NOW >

Opera Bar

Circular Quay, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Australian

What to expect: Great food and cocktails under the Opera House sails

Take a seat under the sails of the Opera House and dine out at this iconic Sydney venue with sweeping views of the Harbour. With a menu that heroes local suppliers, Australian produce and seafood, this dining experience is best when shared with friends! BOOK NOW >

6 HEAD Campbells Cove

7-27 Circular Quay West, 2000 The Rocks (NSW) | Australian

What to expect: A culinary experience with an award-winning wine list 

Looking for that really special dining experience? With unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Opera House and Harbour, there's just one word to sum up this dinner location: iconic. 6 HEAD’s stunning interiors, fantastic al fresco dining options and mouth-watering Modern Australian menu make it the perfect choice for a Vivid feed. BOOK NOW >

Cirrus Dining

10/23 Barangaroo Avenue, 2000 Barangaroo (NSW) | Seafood

What to expect: Some of Sydney's best seafood on the water's edge

Located on the waterfront at Barangaroo and specialising in seafood, Cirrus is the creation of chef Brent Savage and sommelier Nick Hildebrandt, the multi award-winning team behind Bentley Restaurant + Bar, Monopole and Yellow. With stunning views across the northern end of Darling Harbour to Pyrmont and Goat Island, Cirrus offers the finest waterfront dining in Sydney. BOOK NOW > 

Alegre Bar and Dining

King St Wharf, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Mexican

What to expect: A trip to the trendy shores of Tulum

Alegre is bringing a taste of Tulum to Sydney with an upmarket take on Mexican cuisine and some of the best views of Sydney Harbour. Book a dinner at this popular new restaurant after exploring the Vivid attractions around Darling Harbour and Barangaroo. BOOK NOW >  

Waterfront Grill

289 Harbourside, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Steakhouse

What to expect: Excellent steaks paired with stunning views of Darling Harbour

Darling Harbour's premier steakhouse, Waterfront Grill is the perfect spot to take in the excitement of Vivid with Harbour views and a menu that won't disappoint. Expect mouth watering steaks, juicy burgers and crisp wholesome salads. Whether you come alone to sip a cocktail at the bar, or with the family, these guys will make it something to remember. BOOK NOW >

Secolo Dining

Shop 3 – Ground, 161 Castlereagh Street, 2000 Sydney (NSW) | Italian

What to expect: A top-tier Italian feed in the Sydney CBD

If you're heading along to one of the many Vivid experiences in the CBD, a stop at Secolo Dining is a must. This popular CBD Italian restaurant servces up world-class antipasto, freshly made pasta, Napoli-style pizza and vibrant aperitivo style wine and cocktails that will have you coming back again soon. BOOK NOW >

Looking for more dining inspiration during Vivid? See our full selection of Sydney restaurants that are close to the action!