25-year Circular Quay institution on the rooftop of the Customs House — seafood platters, harbor views, and a Nigella Lawson–approved dining room.
Why It Belongs on the List
Perched on Level 5 of the historic Customs House at Circular Quay, Café Sydney offers views of the Opera House and Bridge alongside a menu built on seafood, modern Australian cooking, and a wine list that rewards lingering. Celebrating 25 years in 2024, it remains one of Sydney's most reliable special-occasion restaurants — the seafood platter of crab, Moreton Bay bugs, scampi, and oysters is a ritual for first-timers. Nigella Lawson drops in every time she visits the city.
What Stands Out
- 25-year Circular Quay institution
- Rooftop harbor and Opera House views
- Seafood platter ritual
- Nigella Lawson favorite
- Customs House location