Sydney’s Best Romantic Restaurants

When it comes to romantic dining in Sydney, one can often get lost in the current trend of share plates and bar bites. While they have their place in the Sydney dining scene, there are occasions where one yearns for a romantic dinner with the right ambience, comfortable seating, soft tunes that allow conversations, and room to hold hands.

Here are our top picks for Sydney’s best romantic restaurants (in no particular order).

Altitude Restaurant

Altitude Restaurant

Perched high on the 36th floor of Sydney’s Shangri-la Hotel, Altitude Restaurant offers contemporary Australian cuisine with Chef de Cuisine Matthew McCool at the helm. With subdued elegance, and one of the best views over Sydney Harbour, try to gaze into your companion’s eyes every so often.

Shangri-La Hotel Sydney
Level 36, 176 Cumberland St, The Rocks
www.shangri-la.com/sydney/shangrila

Ananas Bar and Restaurant

Ananas Bar and Restaurant brings a touch of Parisian romance to the Rocks. A stunning bar invites champagne sipping before settling down in the opulent dining room to enjoy Executive Chef Paul McGrath’s exciting brasserie menu.

18 Argyle St, The Rocks, Sydney 2000
www.ananas.com.au

The Victoria Room

It’s not just one of Sydney’s best cocktail bars and the place to have an indulgent high tea. Recently refurbished in plush furnishings and cool blue tones, The Victoria Room in Darlinghurst is relaunching with a brand new concept and Michelin star experienced chef Sam Cheetham while retaining the romance of yesteryear.

1/235 Victoria St, Darlinghurst
www.thevictoriaroom.com

Macleay St Bistro

This little gem in Potts Point has been wooing diners for over 30 years. Intimate, cosy and romantic, Macleay St Bistro is the place to enjoy some of the finest French-inspired fare, perfectly-matched wines and the hospitality of the Maitre d’ and Sommelier.

73a Macleay Street, Potts Point
www.macleaystbistro.com.au

Claire’s Kitchen at Le Salon

From the thick, sexy French accents that greet you on arrival, you’ll know you’re in for a special time. Claire’s Kitchen at Le Salon tantalises with its glamorous interiors and delicious French food.

35 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
www.claireskitchen.com.au

Henrietta Supper Club

Sophisticated, chic and welcoming, Henrietta Supper Club serves delicious British and Irish fare and top notch cocktails in elegant surrounds.

Level 1, 294 Victoria St, Darlinghurst
www.henriettasupperclub.com.au

Emmilou Tapas Bar

If there’s category for sexy restaurants, Emmilou Tapas Bar wins for ambience with a fiery red interior and music ranging from the seductive sounds of Sade to the eclectic tunes of Manu Chao. While French restaurants simmer like a court-bouillon, Emmilou sizzles with passion (or is it lust) with hot dishes such as the Zarzuela from new Head Chef Gary Ryley’s menu.

413 Bourke Street, Surry Hills
www.emmilou.com.au

est. Restaurant

Classic elegance with high ceilings and luxurious thick columns coupled with an exquisite menu from head chef Peter Doyle, make est. Restaurant a most memorable dining experience. Dishes are prepared with finesse and the wine matches are exquisite.

Level 1, Establishment/252 George St, Sydney
merivale.com.au/est

Sepia Restaurant

Arrive early at Sepia Restaurant for bubbles at the bar before you settle for a night of decadent degustation from chef Martin Benn in plush, dark surrounds and attentive service.

Darling Park, 201 Sussex Street, Sydney
www.sepiarestaurant.com.au

Marque

Leave yourself in the hands of Chef Mark Best for a fine dining experience with a renowned Marque degustation menu. The minimalist décor with white tablecloths, dark walls and subdued lighting contributes to a timeless elegant dining experience.

4/5 355 Crown St, Surry Hills
www.marquerestaurant.com.au

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Other Guides in this series: Sydney’s Best Brunch Spots, Sydney’s Best Bloody Marys, Sydney’s Best Rum Bars, Sydney’s Best Whisky Bars, Sydney’s Best Wine Bars, Top Ten Sydney Small Bars, Another Top Ten Sydney Bars (2013), Sydney’s Best Tequila Bars, Sydney’s Best French Restaurants