The Resy Guide to Where To Eat in Surry Hills

Chef Tristan Rozier’s five-course tasting menu consists of comfortingly refined dishes that arrive in twos at this socially conscious, produce-driven restaurant. The slender, convivial space is inviting and compliments the food perfectly. Enjoy dishes like a wild venison, blackberry and native pepper snack, or John Dory with pumpkin and marigold. The house-made bread is superb and extras like a plate of scarlet prawns with shellfish butter are worth the effort.

Tucked away in the Paramount House Hotel, Mat Lindsay’s wine bar (and sister to Ester) is a slick affair with plenty of dark wood and high ceilings. Rows of handpicked organic wines (picked by somm Julien Dromgool) accentuate a thoughtfully crafted menu of dishes designed to complement the drinking experience. Biodynamic and minimal intervention wines take centre stage. While everything is executed with finesse, the anchovy toast mustn’t be missed.

An upscale izakaya with a stellar sushi bar, robata grill and thoughtful wine list, the expertly prepared seafood at Toko is incredible. As for the décor, an eye-catching spiral matchstick-like wall piece centres the dimly lit restaurant, perfect for tables of two or a celebration with friends. Tasting menus are available, if you’re in the mood for adventure. Not to be missed: scampi nigiri with foie gras, truffle and soy jelly.

Juicy, well-seasoned, chicken with crisp, blistered skin — need we say more? At this casual charcoal chicken joint, the vibe is upbeat and playful. Meanwhile, the food is absurdly delicious: classic sides (like an outstanding fattoush) give rivals a run for their money, while modern dishes like a falafel “bao” , brisket shawarma tacos, and boozy slushies up the fun factor. Can’t decide? Opt for the banquet for the entire table to take – a feast, and a great deal at $49 per person.

Bad Hombres’ M.O. could best be described as a Mexican-inspired, plant-based spot where natural wine and mezcal cocktails flow – an unconventional combination that works well. Red brick walls create a cosy ambience, while 80’s tunes keep the room buzzing. Food-wise, the cauliflower spiked with oregano-paprika salt plus cashew crema and salsa verde is a must-try, while on Tuesdays there’s an excellent three-for-$10 deal on their excellent tacos.

A global institution that launched a million brunches, each location of Bills adopts the essence of its neighbourhood — and the Surry Hills outpost is no exception. Fresh, light and airy, the beautifully appointed dining room always buzzes. The ricotta hotcakes of legend (topped with banana and honeycomb butter) are worth lining up for, while light, all-day dishes sidle up to heartier fare like parmesan crumbed chicken with creamed corn. Order a coffee or two while watching the room and soak up the environment.

Surry Hills is fortunate to have a location of this Melbourne-founded group on its doorstep. Rooted in tradition, the restaurant serves up Italian classics along with carefully selected Italian wines and ambience to match. The dining room is a beautiful space to spend a couple of hours, with a beautiful marble bar and young olive trees to set the mood; tuck into pizza San Daniele with a classic base of San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella imported from Campania, and San Daniele prosciutto – a D.O.C signature.

Gemma Lin’s eclectic bar-meets-restaurant-meets-club is a multi-sensory experience. Set over three floors, this establishment’s award-winning décor and Asian-inspired comfort draw a crowd of locals who come for lamb dumplings and crispy duck pancakes. Each floor has its own flavour – from the ornate Sakura Bar or the neon-bedazzled downstairs Dungeon. Even better: there’s live music. Sip on umeshu cocktails and graze while taking in the artsy visuals and sounds.

Meaning ‘a place where food speaks for itself’, this roving pop-up’s name rings true at this Surry Hills gem, appearing on Sundays at Nikkei. Peru’s melting pot of cultures is offered as a rotating set menu, with classic dishes like pillowy, donut-like picarones, anticuchos skewers, or tender marinaded octopus. Ceviche? You’ll want to drink the leche de tigre.

A landmark since 1927, this beloved watering hole is a reliable go-to for craft beers and well-executed pub fare and Asian-esque bites from their adjoining Dumpling Bar. The main space is transportive, with a long wooden bar with green lamp shades setting the tone for relaxed hangs and catchups. Weekly events coupled with regular after-work drinks are staples, as is an expert hand in offering a solid line-up of indie craft beers and workmanlike dishes like dumplings and excellent meat pies from Broomfields.

Popular for its brunches and fresh pours of Czech beer, this relaxed Bourke Street eatery specialises in satisfying Eastern European fare with serious finesse. Think: Shared plates of chicken liver pate, beef tartare and endless Bellini’s at the weekend. There’s plenty of outdoor seating, while the handsome dining room – all wood panelling and exposed brick – benefits from plenty of natural light.