21 Aug 2024

Waterfront Dining: Barangaroo's Top 10

Nestled along Sydney’s iconic harbour, Barangaroo is the ultimate destination for waterfront dining. From cocktails to gourmet meals, it's the perfect place to unwind, celebrate, or connect.


Surrounded by Sydney’s spectacular harbour, Barangaroo boasts an enviable list of waterfront venues. If you're seeking a perfect spot to relax by the water, sip on a refreshing cocktail, or indulge in upscale cuisine, look no further. Whether you're catching up with friends, celebrating a special occasion, or need to book in that next business lunch meeting, Barangaroo’s waterfront eateries offer a multitude of options to suit every mood and taste.

1. Cirrus

Just a skip from the water, Cirrus is a premier seafood restaurant offering a world-class wine list and menu. Helmed by renowned chef Brent Savage and sommelier Nick Hildebrandt, Cirrus presents fresh seafood, prepared with seasonal ingredients and exquisite craftsmanship. Best of all, there’s a generous outdoor terrace with spectacular harbour views. Menu highlights include live seafood options like locally caught lobsters and a tasting menu that features delicacies such as roasted scallops with preserved lemon and BBQ barramundi with salted kombu butter. For wine enthusiasts, Cirrus’ extensive wine list is curated to complement the seafood-centric menu, offering a range of local and international selections.

2. Muum Maam

Firey flavours matched with soothing water views and a relaxed atmosphere makes Muum Maam a must-visit. “Muum Maam” is Thai slang for “little glutton” and it’s hard not to over-indulge at this delicious eatery serving authentic Thai cuisine in a prime waterfront location. The menu, crafted by head chef Santo Bun, includes traditional Thai dishes and street food, such as prawn and papaya salad, massaman coconut curry, and Moreton Bay bugs with betel leaves. Thai-inspired cocktails and desserts make for a complete dining experience. Or take-away your dishes for a Thai picnic at one of Barangaroo’s many parks. Muum Maam’s weekend brunch is particularly popular, offering a unique Thai twist on brunch classics.

3. love.fish

love.fish is a family-owned restaurant dedicated to sustainability, serving fresh Australian seafood right on the water. The menu includes a wide selection of raw bites, such as Sydney rock oysters and New Zealand king salmon tartare, alongside mains like chargrilled octopus and classic fish and chips. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish, making it a great choice for eco-conscious diners who also want to enjoy magnificent harbour views. Enjoy fresh sustainable seafood as the sun sets over the water in the spacious outdoor seating area. love.fish also offers a selection of natural wines and craft beers, carefully chosen to pair well with seafood.

4. Spiced by Billus

Spiced by Billus offers a taste of North Indian cuisine right on Sydney’s waterfront. Simply follow the scent of heady spices wafting from this delicious homestyle Indian eatery. The menu includes a variety of traditional and contemporary dishes such as onion bhajis, chicken tikka, and salt-and-spiced calamari. Wash it all down with an extensive wine and cocktails menu designed to complement the rich flavours of the food; for example, a punchy Ginger Sip is perfect with an extra spicy dish. Settle into the outdoor seating area to dine with a view of the harbour. Spiced by Billus offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring there is something for everyone. If you’re a group of four or more the banquet menus are a perfect way to try a bit of everything.

5. NOLA Smokehouse and Bar

Taste the multicultural flavours of New Orleans – a heady mix of French, Spanish, African and American – at NOLA Smokehouse and Bar. Modelled on a traditional Louisiana smokehouse, the menu features Southern American cuisine. Think fried green tomatoes, wagyu brisket cooked low and slow, duck andouille sausage with Cajun sauce and fire-roasted chicken. Whiskey aficionados rejoice because NOLA is home to Sydney’s largest collection of American whiskeys. The stylish, open-air setting with views of the harbour creates an exuberant, yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a taste of Creole cuisine. NOLA’s interior is inspired by the jazz culture of New Orleans, with live music performances adding to the ambiance. The cocktail menu features classic Southern drinks like Sazeracs and Mint Juleps, making it a great spot for a fun evening out.

6. Zushi

Zushi Barangaroo brings Japanese-bar-style dining to the heart of Sydney with waterfront views. The menu features a mouthwatering selection of sparkling fresh sushi and sashimi, along with izakaya-inspired dishes. Enjoy Japanese cocktails, whisky, beer, and more while taking in the scenery. From kingfish carpaccio to wagyu tataki, every dish is crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Zushi’s minimalist and modern decor creates a serene dining atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for both casual meals and special occasions. Their omakase experience is a must-try for sushi lovers, offering a refined selection of the chef’s finest creations.

7. Bórn by Tapavino

Bookings are wise at this ever-popular waterside eatery where the magnificence of the views is matched only by the delicious Mediterranean flavours. Inspired by the kitchens of Barcelona, this tapas kitchen and wine bar offers a range of Spanish dishes prepared with premium Australian produce. Enjoy a selection of Spanish wines and cocktails in a relaxed, al fresco area with beautiful views of the water. Highlights include jamón serrano with crusted burrata and braised chorizo with green olive. The buzzing atmosphere is perfect for big get-togethers and celebrations. Bórn by Tapavino also offers an extensive sherry menu that showcases the versatility of this traditional Spanish drink.

8. Callaō

Discover the vibrant fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine known as Nikkei at rooftop bar Callaō. Located within International Tower One, Callaō offers breathtaking harbour views. The delicious and different menu combines traditional techniques with fresh produce and lots of zesty flavour. Try seafood like tiradito, marinated in Peruvian sauces or creative sushi rolls featuring unique combinations such as yellowtail with passionfruit. The cocktail list continues this Japanese-Peruvian journey with signature Latin drinks infused with punchy Asian flavours. Their substantial Saké collection is designed to complement key dishes, while the Japanese Whisky collection rivals the best in Sydney.

9. Lotus

Treat yourself to a modern Chinese feast at Lotus. Cocktails, dumplings and top-quality Chinese food right on the water – yes, please. Lotus is a relaxed restaurant less than a skip away from the Barangaroo waterfront, with a sun-drenched outdoor courtyard and a tempting menu that focuses on authentic Chinese dishes, wok-fried and chili-infused, with a dash of extra Sydney flavour. Pair that with bespoke cocktails, craft beers, and an extensive wine list, and you’ve got a recipe for good times.

10. Belle’s Hot Chicken

This waterfront venue is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice with their meal. Belle’s Hot Chicken brings the bold flavours of Nashville to Barangaroo with its mouth-watering hot chicken dishes. The menu includes a range of chicken dishes, from tenders to wings, all coated in Belle’s signature spicy blend. Pair your meal with sides like mac and cheese, coleslaw, or pickles, and wash it down with a cold beer or one of their house-made cocktails. The casual, cheerful atmosphere makes it a great spot for a relaxed meal with friends or family. Whether you’re a fan of mild or extra hot, there’s a spice level to suit every palate.
Barangaroo’s waterfront venues offer impressive views, delicious dining, and vibrant atmospheres. Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated evening or a casual hang, these waterfront gems have you covered.

Find more stunning waterfront venues in The Rocks and Darling Harbour.