Sydney’s Top Deals: From Budget Eats to Special Occasions – Autumn 26 Edition

This page rounds up Sydney’s best dining deals for March and April: express lunches, budget dinner specials, special-occasion menus that are more affordable than you might expect, kids-eat-free offers, and one-off events worth putting in the diary.

Note: We check all details before publishing, but offers can change, so confirm with the venue before you go.

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AALIA Wine Room – $35 Middle Eastern Lunch

Split across two levels in the heart of the CBD, AALIA Wine Room has a considered, grown-up feel that works equally well for a business lunch or a long catch-up with friends.

The deal: $35pp gets you Aalia’s Khorasan pita with your choice of labneh with pomegranate molasses and sumac onion, or eggplant mes’a’aha with spiced tomato — then rump steak with Café de Cairo and chips with ras el hanout. Bookings of two or more.

Where: Level 6.33, 25 Martin Place, Sydney
When: Tuesday–Friday, 12pm–3pm Cost: $35pp

Bistro George – $50 Express Lunch

A proper two-course CBD lunch at a price that makes sense for what’s on the plate. The room skews professional at midday, and the menu backs it up — this isn’t a burger-and-beer deal.

The deal: $50pp for two courses. Entrées run from witlof and radicchio salad with Roquefort and Malfroy’s wild honey to risotto cacio e pepe with black truffle. Mains include rigatoni al gin with fermented chilli, market fish with beurre noisette, or a wagyu bistro burger with gruyere and truffle. Walk-ins welcome, bookings recommended.

Where: Bistro George, Sydney CBD
When: Monday–Friday from 12pm Cost: $50pp

Gowings – The Midday Edit $49

A CBD lunch designed to be done in under an hour if you need it to be. The room is polished without being precious about it.

The deal: Steak with butter, fire-cooked prawns, crispy fries and watercress — a compact menu that holds up as a proper work lunch.

Where: 49 Market Street, Sydney
When: Friday from 12pmPrice: $49 l Book

Bennelong – Bennelong in 45 Minutes

A useful option if you’re heading to a show at the Opera House. Perch at the Bennelong Bar for a cocktail and three elevated bar snacks, timed to fit a pre-curtain window. Works just as well as a post-show option if you’d rather linger over a nightcap.

The deal: A signature cocktail and three bar snacks, $50pp.

Where: Bennelong, Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point, Circular Quay
When: Mon. to Thursday. 5:30- 8:30pm; Fri to Sun 12- 2pm and 5:30pm to 9pm
Cost: $50pp Bookings

Loulou Bistro Milsons Point – Bottomless Poulet Frites

The Milsons Point outpost of Loulou brings French bistro comfort to the harbour foreshore with relaxed Sunday vibes.

The deal: ninety minutes of bottomless roasted chicken and golden fries — simple, satisfying French comfort food.

Where: 61 Lavender Street, Milsons Point
When: Sundays from 11:30am
Cost: $39pp for 90 minutes

Loulou Bistro – Sandwich Américain Lunch $25

Tucked into Martin Place’s sandstone arcades, this Loulou outpost brings Parisian bistro charm to the CBD with marble counters, house-baked bread, and the kind of friendly service that makes a quick lunch feel less rushed.

The deal: A beef patty, crispy fries and sauce Andalusien on house-made baguette, with a wine, beer or soft drink included. The French take on a loaded sandwich, and it works. Available at both the Martin Place and Milsons Point locations, though the days differ — CBD runs Monday to Friday, Milsons Point Tuesday to Sunday.

Where: Martin Place & Milsons Point locations
When: CBD: Monday–Friday, 12pm–3pm; MP: Tuesday–Sunday, 12pm–3pm

Koji Grill – Everything Under $20

This North Sydney spot does Southeast Asian food with a modern edge. The dining room fills up quickly at lunch with office workers who’ve worked out that everything here costs less than a sandwich at most city cafés.

The twelve-hour slow-cooked short ribs are worth the queue, and the wagyu enoki skewers disappear fast. You’ll also find wok-fried black pepper beef with truffle butter and their version of Hainanese chicken. Since nothing costs more than $20, you can actually afford to order a few dishes and share.

Where: Shop 15, 155B Miller Street, North Sydney
When: Monday–Friday, 11:30am–2pm (dinner service 5:30–7pm)
Cost: All dishes under $20

Lunch Deals for special occasions

Flaminia – Pranzo Veloce $65

Flaminia’s harbour-side room is a relaxed spot for a midweek lunch that doesn’t feel rushed. The menu takes its cues from Italy’s port cities, and the setting does the rest.

The deal: A two-course Italian quick lunch — shared entrée followed by your choice of main, with bottled mineral water included.

Where: Level 2, Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, 61 Macquarie Street, Sydney
When: Monday to Wednesday, lunchtime Cost: $65pp l Book here

Bar Tilda – $59 Lunch Break

A calm, well-run room that suits both solo lunches and small work groups without feeling stuffy about either.

The deal: Two courses from a rotating list of restaurant favourites. Start with an elevated ploughman’s, then choose fish, steak or pasta, with classic sides included. Available for groups up to seven.

Otto Ristorante – Mangia! Share Menu

Everything lands in the middle of the table. The Woolloomooloo wharf setting is part of the draw, but the food backs it up — burrata with cherry and pistachio, ricotta gnudi with burnt sage butter, conchiglie with smoked Wagyu ragù. Minimum two people.

Where: 6/2 Cowper Wharf Road, Woolloomooloo
When: Wednesday to Sunday Cost: From $69pp (Mini Mangia) / $89pp (Mangia)

The Counter Cut at Woodcut

The ‘Counter Cut’ menu lets you sit at the chef’s counter with prime views over the open kitchen – it’s like dinner and a show rolled into one.

The deal: a set menu comes with a glass of wine, beer or soft drink and offers outstanding value for a restaurant of this calibre.

Where: Woodcut, Crown Sydney, 1 Barangaroo Avenue
When: Tuesday to Friday, lunch service
Cost: One course for $55pp or two courses for $70pp (includes a drink)
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible venue

Moyashi – Japanese Hotpot Lunch Specials (City Store)

Moyashi’s City Store in Darling Square offers weekday lunch specials built around Japanese sukiyaki and shabu hot pot, with quality Australian beef, seafood and seasonal vegetables. It’s a solid option for a quick, warming lunch in Haymarket.

Choose the Sushi & Sashimi set ($28pp) with 6 pcs sashimi + 2 pcs salmon, a single‑person hot pot (sukiyaki or shabu), your choice of angus brisket or chuck eye roll, and rice, udon or wafu salad. Or go for the Special Lunch Buffet ($42.80pp) including wagyu brisket + wagyu chuck eye roll, all veg, salmon roll, California roll, chicken karaage, takoyaki and all sides.

When: Monday–Friday, 11:30am–3:00pm
Where: Moyashi City Store, SWP12, 63 Tumbalong Boulevard, Darling Square, Haymarket
Cost: Sushi & Sashimi set $28pp; Special Lunch Buffet $42.80pp
Bookings: Walk‑ins welcome

Check out our autumn food guide for a round up of what to eat this summer.

Weekend Lunch Deals

Soluna – Bottomless Lasagne $30

A roomy Surry Hills terrace and warm, rustic dining room that suits casual groups and long Sunday afternoons equally well.

The deal: $30 gets you unlimited lasagne all day Sunday. No tricks.

Where: 5–9 Buckingham Street, Surry Hills
When: Every Sunday, all day Cost: $30pp

Regina La Pizzeria – Bottomless Pizza & Drinks

Regina La Pizzeria’s lively Wunderlich Lane location is all about sharing—large tables, half-metre pizzas, and a fun, communal buzz.

The deal: on weekends, feast on unlimited pizza and select drinks like Aperol, beer, and wine for $55pp. La Pala pizzas make this a great choice for groups.

Where: Wunderlich Lane, Chippendale
When: Saturdays & Sundays from 12pm
Price: $55pp

Quick bites and drink specials in Sydney City

Whether you’re planning an impromptu catch-up with friends or just looking to relax after a long day, there are some awesome deals right now that we have covered in our round up of Sydney’s best happy hours.

Weekly Dining Specials

From the city to the suburbs, Sydney’s weekly dinner deals offer something for everyone, whether you’re planning a family meal, catching up with friends, or enjoying date night.

These specials make midweek dining a treat without the hefty price tag. Here are some top picks that blend deliciousness with affordability, ensuring you can enjoy great meals any night of the week!

Harbord Hotel – $18 Weekly Faves

Freshwater’s beachside local keeps midweek simple with a different pub classic each night. Kids eat free between 5pm and 6pm with any adult main.

• Monday: Steak
• Tuesday: Pizza ($20 for prosciutto or Shrimply the Best)
• Wednesday: Burger
• Thursday: Schnitzel

Where: 29 Moore Road, Freshwater
When: Monday to Thursday, 5pm to 9pm Cost: From $18pp

Soluna – Midweek Specials

This Surry Hills spot hits its stride midweek with a relaxed neighbourhood feel and plenty of regulars filling the dining room. The roomy terrace and warm, rustic interior work well for both casual meals and small group gatherings.

Wednesday: Chicken parmigiana with handmade pasta for $25, available lunch through dinner
Thursday: 2-for-1 pizza night from 5pm—order any two pizzas and pay for the higher-priced one, perfect for sharing

Where: 5–9 Buckingham Street, Surry Hills
When: Wednesday (all day), Thursday (from 5pm)

Arms Length Potts Point – Weekly Specials

This NYC-inspired wine bar in Kings Cross offers different deals every day of the week, making it perfect for both casual drinks and special occasions.

Weekly Deals

• Monday: $49 2 courses with a glass of wine
• Tuesday: $19 pasta and wine night (chef’s weekly creation)
• Wednesday: $25 steak and fries with wine

Where: Felons Manly
When: Weekly from Sunday to Wednesday

The Sussex Hotel Weekly Specials

The Sussex Hotel, a beloved inner-city venue in Barangaroo and home of the biggest beer garden in the city, offers fantastic weekly dinner deals perfect for any budget.

Located in a striking sandstone building next to Wynyard station, The Sussex features a beer garden, Suriya restaurant serving Thai cuisine, and a Mediterranean-style rooftop bar.

Weekly specials in the Public Bar & Beer Garden include:

• Monday: 200g rump steak and fries for $22 (from 5:30pm)
• Tuesday: Beer battered fish and chips for $20 (from 5:30pm)
• Wednesday: Gourmet burgers for $20 (from 5:30pm)
• Thursday: Chicken schnitzel for $20 (from 5:30pm)

Don’t miss their Happy Hour running Monday to Friday, 5pm-7pm, featuring $7 house wines and selected tap beers in both the Public Bar & Beer Garden and Suriya.

Where: The Sussex Hotel, Sussex Street, Barangaroo
When: Specials available from 5:30pm
More info: www.thesussexhotel.com.au

Special occasion Dinner and Drinks

Sometimes you want the harbour views and crisp white tablecloths without the three-figure bill. These spots deliver proper special occasion dining—think Opera House views and tasting menus—but keep the damage under control. Perfect for when you’re celebrating something that matters or just fancy a night out that feels a bit more grown-up.

Bennelong – The Bennelong House Lunch

Dining beneath the Opera House sails, Bennelong offers waterfront elegance and world-class Australian cuisine in a truly iconic setting.

Two-course lunch includes a glass of Arras sparkling wine and a choice of entrees and mains by acclaimed chefs, with harbour views making this ideal for celebrating milestones and special occasions.

Where: Bennelong Point, Circular Quay
When: Friday–Sunday, from 12pmPrice: $125pp

Aria Weekday Lunch

If ARIA has been on your list for a while this is a good chance to enjoy a more affordable menu featuring some of ARIA’s favourites. Follow it up with an afternoon on the harbour.

Where: 1 Macquarie St, Sydney
Offer: Thursday and Friday lunch – 2 courses $120

Chiswick Locals Menu

The elegant Woollahra dining room focuses on seasonal produce from their garden and local suppliers. Head Chef Dan Cooper’s two‑course shared menu highlights peak ingredients and changes regularly.

When: Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays for lunch & dinner
Where: Chiswick 65 Ocean Street, Woollahra
Cost: $60 per person (min 2 people, designed for sharing) with optional wine pairing.

Auvers Cafe – $15 Kids Happy Meal

A French-inspired cafe with a modern Australian and Asian fusion menu that works well for families, particularly given the relaxed Darling Square setting and the colourful, art-inspired interiors that tend to keep kids entertained.

The deal: $15 gets kids a choice of nuggets and chips, fish and chips, or creamy chicken egg noodles. Before midday, scrambled egg or smashed avocado on brioche toast is also available. Comes with apple juice, orange juice or a babychino for early diners.

Where: Shop 4, 12 Nicolle Walk, Darling Square, Haymarket (also at Rhodes Waterside)
Cost: $15pp

Pancakes on the Rocks – Kids Meals Under $15

One of Sydney’s most reliable family dining spots, open late and with a menu broad enough to keep everyone happy — not just the kids.

The deal: Kids can choose from the Mad Hatter cheeseburger with chips, the Ned Kelly buttermilk pancake with scrambled eggs and bacon, the Crazy potato pancake, or dinosaur chicken nuggets, all under $15.

Where: 22 Playfair Street, The Rocks (also Darling Square, Beverly Hills and Northmead)
When: Sunday to Thursday 7:30am to midnight, Friday and Saturday 7:30am to 2am (The Rocks)

Ume Burger – $15.90 Kids Box

Behind the casual counter setup sits a kitchen that takes its burgers seriously — Japanese-influenced, made with quality ingredients, and a genuine step up from most kids meal options in the area.

The deal: $15.90 gets a choice of fish fingers, chicken nuggets or a burger, all served with plain chips and tomato sauce. Apple or orange juice can be added for $3.

Where: Darling Square, Haymarket Cost: $15.90, juice add-on $3

Wingboy – $12 Chicken and Chips

A casual, no-fuss wings bar that does exactly what it says. The vibe is fun and loud, which generally goes down well with kids.

The deal: $12 covers chicken tenders (2 pieces) or chicken wings (5 pieces) with shoestring fries and tomato sauce. Mac and cheese also available for $9.

Where: 7 Steam Mill Lane, Haymarket Cost: $12

Dopa Donburi – $14.50 Japanese-Style Kids Meal

A Tokyo-inspired donburi bar that makes a good change from the usual kids meal suspects. The rice bowls are generous and the toy inclusion tends to seal the deal with younger diners.

The deal: $14.50 covers a choice of Chicken Teriyaki Don, Chicken Karaage Don or Kakiage Don, with a drink and a kids toy included.

Where: 2 Little Hay Street, Darling Square and Shop CQT.11, 180 George Street, Sydney Cost: $14.50

Uliveto – $15 Kids Meal

A casual Italian spot in Darling Square with indoor and outdoor seating, open from breakfast through to late evening — useful when you need flexibility around kids’ schedules.

The deal: $15 covers family favourites including fish and chips, chicken nuggets with chips (6 pieces), Napolitana pasta or a cheeseburger.

Where: Shop 3, 35 Tumbalong Boulevard, Darling Square, Haymarket Cost: $15

Squires Landing

Treat your family to a Sunday outing at the Brewhouse. For every adult meal, one child (12 and under) gets a free kids’ meal. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a family day by the harbour.

The Brewhouse kids’ menu offers tasty options, including spaghetti Napoli, pork tacos, beef nachos, chicken schnitzel, battered fish, and chargrilled chicken. All kids’ meals come with vanilla ice cream for dessert! Meals range from $12 to $16, with a variety of gluten-free and dairy-free options available.

When: Available every Sunday!
Where: Northern end of the Overseas Passenger Terminal. Circular Quay West

Skyfeast at Sydney Tower

Dining 250 metres above the city streets, Skyfeast offers the kind of views that make even jaded Sydneysiders look up from their phones. The revolving restaurant slowly turns while you eat, giving you the full 360-degree treatment of harbour, suburbs, and coastline.

Skyfeast – Kids Birthday Special

Your little one gets a free meal on their birthday (12 and under) when you’re having a proper meal too. Bring some ID to prove it’s actually their special day.

Note: Birthday only, proof of age required

Skyfeast – Half-Price Kids Meals

Monday to Thursday, kids aged 4-12 eat for half price with a paying adult. Worth booking ahead to secure the deal—and it doesn’t run during school holidays when they’re probably sick of restaurant food anyway.

Where: Skyfeast
When: Monday–Thursday, lunch and dinner (not school holidays)
Note: Bookings essential

So what next?

No one has paid for their place on this list. We really just want to support the bars and restaurants we love, especially those that are trying hard to come up with affordable options. We hope these deals help you to fit some food and fun into your budget.

If we have missed something or you would like to share an offer with us, you can reach out via our Facebook page or e-mail me. 

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