A neighbourhood diner celebrating native produce, while giving equal weight to invasive species such as rabbit and boar. Relaxed, inviting and decked out with Australiana touches, this is an essential Sydney restaurant.

The noodles are made fresh in-house every day and the ramen recipe is top secret.

The don bowls at this minimal diner are sophisticated versions of the classic Japanese comfort dish. But the real signature here is tea, from delicate senchas to tannin-heavy oolongs. Tasting notes and pairing suggestions will guide your palate.

A retro restaurant and bar from the team behind The Glenmore.

A visit to Fontana is like taking a Mediterranean holiday. The menu is a love letter to regional Italian dishes, backed up by a thoughtful curation of natural wines and aperitivo. To find it, ascend the classic red-carpeted staircase between a Mexican diner and a kebab shop.

Sicilian-style pies made to a secret recipe. Not as thick as a Roman pizza, but not as thin and sloppy as Neapolitan either. La Coppola’s has a crisp base with a satisfyingly puffy and blistered edge. A small joint with big Italian heart.

Sydney’s “al pastor king” is serving tacos out of a century-old pub – and we’re stoked about it. Come on Sundays for carne asada in the leafy courtyard, or head upstairs for drinks and disco till late.

A head-turning wine bar and diner by a team of friends who’ve done stints together at Ragazzi, Fabbrica, Yellow and more. Expect small plates, thick pastas and a big focus on nebbiolo.