Finding the Best Restaurant in Sydney Right Now
- Sophie Langford
- Sep 29
- 10 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Sydney's dining scene is a playground of creativity, offering meals as memorable as the city itself. The steakhouse in Sydney scene is a must for food lovers and visitors exploring the Harbour City. If you are searching for a sizzling modern twist, a traditional grillhouse feel, or a high-quality chain, Sydney’s steakhouses deliver some of the best steakhouses in Sydney for premium cuts of beef. The city embraces Australia’s deep passion for beef, showcasing premium cuts that bring bold flavour and satisfaction with every bite.
Why Sydney's Steak Scene is a Must-Experience
Sydney’s multicultural food culture blends global influences with the best local ingredients. The restaurants around the city, from its bustling CBD to its serene beaches, offer a stunning range of styles. Fine dining, rustic pubs, and lively food markets reflect Sydney's rich heritage and the city's love of great food. Thanks to access to world-class Australian beef, Sydney eats are a highlight for any food enthusiast.
The Rise of the Steakhouse
In recent years, Sydney's steak scene has grown into a true culinary powerhouse. Steakhouses have redefined how we enjoy this classic meal, blending tradition with innovation to offer unforgettable dining experiences. A visit to a steakhouse in Sydney is now an authentic event where premium cuts and expertly paired wines take centre stage. Some of the best steakhouses in Sydney serve Wagyu and grass-fed Angus, often graded by the Marble Score (MBS) system for guaranteed quality.
Why Sydney's Steakhouses Stand Out
What sets Sydney’s steakhouses apart is the marriage of premium Australian beef, skilled chefs, and a deep commitment to delivering a memorable meal. Many steakhouses focus on cuts with high MBS ratings, providing beef marbling and tenderness that are hard to beat. Innovation thrives in Sydney, too, with offerings like smoked steaks, dry-aged beef, and creative spins on classic sides. It is not just about the food; the atmosphere matters. From sleek waterfront restaurants to heritage-listed venues, the ambience makes a meal at the best steakhouses in Sydney a complete experience.
Different Types of Steakhouses
Sydney’s steakhouse options cater to every taste. You can find cutting-edge innovation or classic simplicity depending on your mood. Both modern and traditional steakhouses contribute to the city's reputation for hosting some of the best steakhouses in Sydney.
Modern Steakhouses
Modern steakhouses in Sydney focus on both aesthetics and flavour. Expect sleek interiors with industrial touches, open kitchens, and rooftop views. These places balance sophistication with a welcoming atmosphere. Menus are adventurous, featuring cuts like flat iron or picanha, prepared using techniques such as sous-vide or wood-fired grilling. With plant-based options available alongside premium steaks, modern venues keep Sydney's food scene vibrant. Some of the best Sydney lunch and Sydney dinner spots are found in these contemporary settings, showing why the city is home to many of the best steakhouses in Sydney.
Traditional Steakhouses
Traditional steakhouses bring a sense of history to the table. These venues stick to the basics: high-quality meat, expert preparation, and no-frills service. Rib-eye, T-bone, and porterhouse cuts dominate their menus. Sides like mashed potatoes, creamed spinach, and crisp salads complement the steaks perfectly. Open-flame grilling remains the favoured method, celebrating the natural flavour of beef. This process highlights techniques like caramelisation, which enhances the steak’s outer crust while sealing in moisture. Many locals argue that the traditional venues host the best restaurant in Sydney when it comes to classic steak meals.
Tips for Enjoying Your Steak
How to Order Your Steak
When ordering steak, understanding doneness is important. Rare offers a cool, red centre and tender bite. Medium-rare has a warm red centre and slight firmness, a popular choice among steak lovers. Medium gives a pink centre with firmer texture, while medium-well has just a hint of pink and more firmness. Well-done is fully brown with little to no juice. Different cuts shine at different levels. Ribeye is best enjoyed medium-rare, while tenderloin stays juicy even cooked to medium. Ordering wisely helps you enjoy the best steakhouses in Sydney even more.
What to Pair Your Steak With
The right sides and drinks can make your steak dinner truly special.
Wine Pairings: Rich cuts like ribeye go beautifully with full-bodied reds like Shiraz or Malbec. Leaner cuts like fillet mignon pair well with a smooth Pinot Noir or even a bold Merlot.
Alternative Drinks: If wine isn’t your thing, try a robust craft beer or a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned. For non-alcoholic options, sparkling water or a tangy artisanal soda can refresh your palate.
Classic Sides: Creamy mashed potatoes, garlicky sautéed spinach, or crispy fries are timeless companions to a juicy steak. Feeling adventurous? Truffle mac and cheese or grilled asparagus with parmesan will impress any foodie.
How to Cut and Eat Your Steak
How you slice into your steak can make all the difference in enjoying its full flavour. Always slice against the grain to keep each bite tender. This technique breaks up the muscle fibres, making the steak easier to chew.
Cut one bite at a time, savour the flavour, and feel free to pair each piece with a little sauce or a forkful of your chosen side. A quality steak, especially one with a high MBS, speaks for itself. If you’ve opted for something special, like a dry aged steak, let its unique flavours shine. And don’t forget, resting steak before slicing is key to keeping it juicy.
Top 10 Places to Get Steak in Sydney
When it comes to the best restaurants in Sydney right now, Volcanos Steakhouse stands out as one of the best. Volcanos Steakhouse leads Western Sydney’s dining scene with Halal-friendly options that ensure everyone can enjoy their signature premium cuts.
Volcanos boasts four prime locations, Bankstown, Blacktown, Parramatta, and Wetherill Park, each designed to accommodate everything from family dinners to corporate lunches. The sleek, stylish interiors offer a welcoming atmosphere for any occasion.
The key to Volcanos' success lies in the quality of their meat. Their menu showcases premium Australian beef, including grain-fed cuts, dry-aged selections, and Wagyu options with impressive marbling scores (MBS). Whether it’s their richly glazed beef short ribs or the indulgent Eruption Burger, every dish is crafted with the finest ingredients, carefully sourced from local Australian farms.
Expert chefs bring these flavours to life, balancing char and juiciness to perfection. Pair your meal with one of their creative mocktails for a complete dining experience.
Firedoor is not just a restaurant; it’s an experience that celebrates the raw beauty of ingredients and the elemental magic of fire. Located in Surry Hills, Firedoor has earned a reputation as one of Sydney’s most unique steakhouses. Its approach is as bold as it is authentic, relying solely on wood-fired cooking to bring out the best in every dish.
The kitchen at Firedoor is entirely powered by wood, with no gas or electricity in sight. Daily, a variety of woods is burned to create embers that infuse every ingredient with a distinct, smoky flavour. From the sizzle of the grill to the crackle of the hearth, every dish is cooked to order, making each plate a testament to the art of precision cooking.
Chef and owner Lennox Hastie is the driving force behind Firedoor’s ethos. After refining his skills in Michelin-starred kitchens across Europe, Lennox found his true calling at Asador Etxebarri in Spain, where he spent five years mastering the art of wood-fired cooking. This transformative experience shaped his approach, and today, Firedoor embodies his passion for creating dishes that are both beautifully complex and refreshingly simple.
20 Chapel in Marrickville is redefining the steakhouse experience with its focus on simplicity, quality, and the timeless art of cooking over fire. This neighbourhood restaurant takes pride in creating dishes that celebrate the finest Australian produce, all prepared with a touch of sophistication.
The menu at 20 Chapel is a delightful mix of tradition and innovation. For steak lovers, the highlight is the selection of dry-aged, marbled Blackmore wagyu cuts. Each steak is cooked to perfection over a live flame, and the open kitchen setup allows diners to watch as the team brings these prime cuts to life. With a meat grading system (MBS) that ensures impeccable flavour and tenderness, the steaks here are nothing short of extraordinary.
Beyond the steaks, the rotating menu offers a variety of options that reflect Marrickville’s diverse culinary culture. Dishes like white bolognese pasta, Sichuan-spiced duck, and Fijian-style cured fish showcase the creativity of the chefs. There’s even a standout beef pie filled with Greek-style beef stew, made with ingredients sourced directly from the Hawkesbury River farm of one of the owners.
At Woodcut, simplicity reigns supreme, with every dish designed to highlight the natural beauty of its ingredients. The menu is a showcase of methods that evoke earthy flavours and nostalgia. You’ll find standout dishes like whole wood-fired southern rock lobster with kombu butter, ash-grilled octopus paired with whipped anchovies, and home-fermented sourdough served with richly cultured butter. Every bite is an invitation to appreciate the art of cooking with fire and precision.
Woodcut isn’t just about exceptional food; it’s about creating unforgettable moments. For private celebrations or corporate events, the restaurant offers two private dining rooms and options for partial hire, ensuring a bespoke experience for every occasion.
Recently awarded one prestigious hat by the Good Food Guide, Woodcut exemplifies soulful cooking that honours Australia’s finest ingredients. Whether it’s the smoky aroma of a wood-fired dish or the delicate balance of flavours in a steamed creation, every plate tells a story.
Alfie’s isn’t your traditional steakhouse. It’s a bold, energetic venue that flips the steakhouse model on its head, drawing inspiration from the underbelly of East London. With its edgy vibe, fast-paced dining, and creative menu, Alfie’s is redefining how Sydney does steak.
At the heart of the menu is Alfie’s signature steak. The $39 220g Riverine sirloin, wet and dry-aged on-site, is cooked over the fire and served within 15 minutes of ordering. This steak delivers maximum flavour and pairs beautifully with a range of inventive sides, available in full or half portions. Highlights include bubble and squeak slaw, fire-roasted baby carrots, hot chips with curry sauce, and silky potato mash.
End your meal on a high note with a scoop of homemade gelato crafted in collaboration with Ciccone & Sons. Flavours like burnt honey, beef fat, and rosemary ensure this dessert is as memorable as the meal itself.
Located on the first floor of The Old Rum Store in Chippendale’s buzzing Kensington Street, Eastside Bar & Grill combines New York's meatpacking district charm with Sydney’s love for premium, sustainably sourced dining. With its heritage-listed warehouse setting and a menu centred around a custom-built Parilla grill, Eastside offers a truly unique steakhouse experience.
The Parilla grill, with its Brasero firebox designed to burn natural timbers, is the star of the kitchen. Every dish is kissed by the flames, delivering smoky, distinctive flavours that elevate the finest cuts of meat. From succulent steaks to fresh seafood, the menu is a celebration of premium produce, dry aged in-house for optimal taste and texture.
Looking forward to host a private event? Eastside can accommodate up to 90 guests, with tailored food and beverage packages to suit your needs. Whether it’s a corporate function, an intimate gathering, or a big celebration, the space and service ensure a memorable experience.
Norcino
For an authentic taste of Central Italy, Norcino in Pyrmont offers a dining experience steeped in Roman tradition. Led by Arnolfo Raimondi and Fabio Battisti, the trattoria, deli, and wine bar captures the essence of Italian hospitality with housemade dishes and a curated selection of natural wines.
Norcino's roots trace back to the traditions of Norcini, the artisans of Italy’s Apennines renowned for their cured meats. This heritage shines through the menu, with specialties like house-cured Guanciale and Porchetta, lovingly crafted over months by Chef Fabio. These delicacies form the backbone of their signature pasta dishes, including the creamy Carbonara, the rich Amatriciana, and handmade Gnocchi paired with a slow-braised ragu.
From breakfast to dinner, Norcino delivers a slice of Rome in every dish, making it a must-visit for foodies and tourists alike. Experience Italian authenticity in the heart of Sydney, where the flavours and traditions of Central Italy come to life.
Whether you’re stopping by for a casual lunch, a lively dinner, or a late-night snack, The Carrington’s menu has something for everyone. From classic pub favourites to modern Australian dishes, each plate pairs perfectly with the variety of beers, wines, and cocktails on offer. With prices ranging from $4 to $16, it’s easy on the wallet too.
Planning an event? The Carrington caters to small and large functions, making it a great choice for birthdays, get-togethers, or even corporate gatherings. The friendly staff are always ready to help make your occasion memorable, and the relaxed atmosphere ensures everyone feels at home.
The Carrington is more than just a local pub. This charming spot offers a welcoming vibe, perfect for grabbing a drink, enjoying a hearty meal, or spending quality time with your furry companion in its dog-friendly indoor and outdoor spaces.
If you’re seeking a steakhouse with a French flair, Armorica Grande Brasserie in Surry Hills delivers an unforgettable dining experience. Inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Northern France, this sophisticated venue blends Parisian elegance with a modern twist, creating a vibrant atmosphere that feels like a celebration every time you visit.
At the heart of Armorica’s kitchen lies a custom-built Josper grill, where premium cuts of meat are expertly cooked over a wood fire. This technique brings out the natural flavours of the steak, adding a distinct smokiness that sets Armorica apart from the rest. The menu is thoughtfully curated, featuring dishes that pay homage to French brasserie classics while incorporating contemporary touches.
Located at 490 Crown Street, Armorica is open daily for lunch from 12 pm and dinner from 5 pm. If you’re after a dining experience that combines exceptional food, impeccable service, and an atmosphere of joie de vivre, Armorica Grande Brasserie is a must-visit on Sydney’s steakhouse scene.
Tucked away in the heart of Sydney, this gem by Big Sam Young and Grace Chen (the duo behind the beloved Super Banana) delivers a dining experience that’s both approachable and luxurious.
Known for their haute lockdown meal kits and private catering featuring truffles, caviar, and lobster, the team has carried that same flair into S’more. Here, diners can indulge in standout dishes like the finest 2GR wagyu, live lobster pasta, and caviar bumps. Each dish combines impeccable technique with bold, creative touches, balancing French bistro classics with subtle Asian influences.
A steakhouse wouldn’t be complete without a premium Wagyu offering, and S’more doesn’t disappoint. The 2GR wagyu, known for its high Marble Score (MBS), melts in your mouth with a richness that’s second to none. Pair it with a side of their inventive cocktails, designed by Icebergs Bar Director Matty Opai, or explore the carefully curated wine list by Paul Huet for the perfect match.
Sydney’s steakhouse scene captures the energy and warmth of the city itself. Whether you’re drawn to the creative flair of modern restaurants or the classic charm of traditional grill houses, every venue promises a distinctive dining experience. Showcasing premium Australian beef, often with top MBS ratings, these steakhouses offer bold flavours that celebrate the best local produce. For visitors and Sydneysiders alike, exploring these exceptional spots is a fantastic way to savour Sydney’s culinary delights. Discover why the city’s steakhouses rank among the finest dining destinations in Australia.
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