On this page, we highlight the best drink and dining deals in Sydney, from happy hours to express lunches and kids eat free deals. If you want to find the best things to eat in Sydney this month without busting the budget, you will find them here.
With spring and summer rolling in, Sydney’s food scene is heating up, and we’ve got some amazing events you definitely don’t want to miss. Whether you’re sipping on a classic cocktail or enjoying gourmet bites with a view, there’s something for everyone. So grab your mates, mark the dates, and check out the tasty adventures Sydney has lined up for us this season!
We suggest you bookmark this page and come back regularly for unmissable dining specials, generous “happy hour” discounts, and even some budget options for special occasion meals.
Note: We have carefully double checked all details before publishing, however these offers may change. Please check the venues for terms and conditions that may apply for your visit.
Major Food Events in Spring and Summer
As the weather warms up so does your foodie calendar. You won’t have to look far for something to eat and drink in Sydney as the year draws to an end.
November
Hideout
Escape to your summer paradise at HIDEOUT, a vibrant beach bar bringing tropical vibes and sandy floors to the city. Sip on refreshing Malibu cocktails like the Frozen Piña Colada or the cheeky Wilson’s Daiquiri, while grooving to live music and DJ beats that keep the party going from sunset to late night. Whether you’re after island-inspired drinks or an atmosphere buzzing with energy, this pop-up promises the perfect blend of relaxation and fun.
HIDEOUT’s menu offers bites designed to share, from the Tropi-Guac and crispy Sunset Spuds to the indulgent Island Catch Roll and tropical tacos. Families are welcome during the day, but when the sun sets, it transforms into an adult playground filled with tiki torches and unforgettable vibes.
Where: The Showring, The Entertainment Quarter, 122 Lang Road, Moore Park
When: Opens Friday, November 22, 2024, and runs Wednesday through Sunday all summer
Thanksgiving Celebrations in Sydney
NOLA Smokehouse & Bar’s popular Thanksgiving celebration is back, offering a feast for both lunch and dinner.
The menu features traditional favorites with gourmet twists, including Creole smoked roast turkey with cranberry sauce, chestnut and sausage stuffing, deviled eggs, butterflied shrimp, green bean casserole, jalapeño and cheese cornbread, roasted sweet potato, and more. A kids’ menu is also available.
When: Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29
Where: NOLA Smokehouse & Bar
Cost: $135 per person; $35 for kids aged 12 and under.
Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned Month
Start your November with a toast! Woodford Reserve is dedicating the entire month to celebrating the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just love a good drink, this event is a must-visit.
Throughout November, Sydney’s top bars will be mixing up their unique takes on this timeless cocktail using Woodford Reserve’s premium bourbon. Picture yourself sipping an expertly crafted Old Fashioned at iconic locations like the Bennelong at Sydney Opera House or the lively Stitch Bar.
To claim your complimentary Old Fashioned, simply and register your details.
When: November 1-30, 2024
Where: Participating venues across Sydney
Cost: Complimentary cocktail with registration. Visit the website for venue listings and terms.
Luke’s Tour & Tastings at the Pylon Lookout
Why just see the sights when you can taste them too? This November, treat yourself to an exclusive after-hours experience at the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon Lookout. Kick things off with a welcome cocktail and a 200-step climb that takes you 87 meters above the harbour.
Once at the top, you’ll enjoy gourmet bites and breathtaking views—an unbeatable combo! Guided by a BridgeClimb expert, you’ll dive into the rich history of the bridge while savoring the flavors brought by culinary legend, Luke Mangan’s at the Sydney Harbour Bridge Pylon.
Choose your experience:
- Oyster Lovers (Nov 27): East 33 Oysters masterclass with Hickson House Oyster Gin
- Summer Spritz (Dec 4 & 18): Sofi Spritz, Idee Fixe, oysters, and seasonal bites
*Limited spots available. Menu items may vary.
Time: 4:00pm (90-minute experience)
Price: $99pp (includes guided tour, three drinks, and canapés) Note: $10 booking fee applies
Quick bites and drink specials in Sydney
Whether you’re planning an impromptu catch-up with friends or just looking to relax after a long day, Sydney has plenty of quick bites and drink specials to explore. Let’s check out what’s on offer! Some of these venues may require booking, so please check before you head out.
Anason
Anason sits waterfront at Barangaroo, it was the first restaurant here and has been my favourites in this strip ever since. It has styled itself on a meyhane, a traditional Turkish restaurant and bar that specialises in serving mezes (small dishes) and drinks.
The ever-changing menu is designed for sharing, with an emphasis on vegetarian and seafood dishes. The drinks menu includes Turkish wines and signature cocktails or raki.
When budgets are tight, Anason’s weekly happy hours are a great way to make the dollars (and the fun) go further.
Where: 5/23 Wulugul Walk, Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Offer: Anason is offering guests a fabulous weekly happy three-hour, which includes $8 Aperols, $10 Tommy’s margs and $8 house beer and wines.
Wingboy
How many wings can you eat in an hour? Up for a fun challenge with friends?
Wingboy is just the spot for a group catch up and with its $25 all you can eat wings and fries you might just need to put aside some beer money to wash it down.
Where: Steam Mill Lane, Darling Square, Sydney
Offer: Available from 12pm – 5pm, Saturday and Sunday.
Vinabar
Tucked behind a steel door disguised as a banh mi cart, Vinabar is serving up Sydney’s most intriguing happy hour. Every Tuesday to Thursday (5-7pm), spice lovers can grab the $12 Mala-garita – a Vietnamese twist on the classic margarita featuring tequila, pineapple juice, hot Thai peppers, and house-made mala syrup.
Pair your cocktail with their famous $12 Baby Banh Mi, served on a warm crusty roll with fresh chilli and coriander – available until 2am (or until sold out).
This tiny YCK Laneways spot (literally two car spaces small!) proves good things come in small packages. Find the hidden door, step into the cozy vibes, and discover why this Vietnamese-inspired micro-bar lives up to its motto: “small space, big dreams.”
When: Tuesday-Sunday, 5pm-2am Happy Hour: Tuesday-Thursday, 5pm-7pm
Where: YCK Laneways (look for the banh mi cart!)
Gildas
Get ready to spice up your spring with an exciting new menu at Gildas, thanks to a cool collab with The Glendronach.
Treat yourself to some sherry-infused pintxos paired perfectly with The Glendronach’s top-notch single malt whiskies. We’re talking butter puff pastries with piquillo peppers, modern gilda skewers, and jamon croquetas—seriously delicious bites. Top off the experience with a Ronnie cocktail or dive into the indulgent tocino de cielo dessert.
Prices start at just $26 for pairs or $78 for the whole tasting flight. Don’t miss this tasty adventure—come check it out!
When: November 8th to December 14th
Where: Gildas, Surry Hills
Happy Hour Deals
Weekday Happy Hours
As you explore Sydney’s vibrant food scene, nothing beats a good happy hour for blending great company with even better deals. Whether you’re winding down after work or gearing up for a night out, these happy hour specials promise to offer a perfect start to your evening exploits. Let’s take a look at what’s on offer around the city the summer.
This month’s featured Happy Hour
Li’l Darlin Crows Nest has some great Happy Hour specials that run across most nights of the week.
- Wine Down Wednesdays – $7 Wines & Beers & $12.5 Tapas
- Clocked Off Thursdays – $12.5 Negronis, Espresso martinis, Aperol Spritzes and Old Fashioned
- Late night Happy Hour – from 10pm Fri + Sat $12.50 cocktails
Where: 23 Willoughby Road Crows Nest – Just 5 mins from the Crows Nest metro station
Happy Hours in Circular Quay and the Rocks
- Squires Landing – Monday to Friday 5pm-7pm $9 wines, cocktails and core pints of beer.
Happy Hours in Barangaroo
- House Bar at Barangaroo House – Monday to Friday, 4-6pm $7 house wines and beers, $9 spirits, and Bizzarro x PS40 Strawberry & Yuzu Spritz for just $12. Plus, $3 freshly shucked oysters.
Crown Sydney Happy Hour
Crown Sydney has happy hour deals at five venues across its 26 floors, many offering fabulous views. Celebrate the end of the workday with $10 Wine, $7 Beer, $10 Spirits and $15 Cocktails.
Venues include CIRQ, Teahouse, TWR, a’Mare or Woodcut.
Where: 1 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Offer: Happy Hour Monday to Friday 4pm-7pm
CARDEA (BARANGAROO)
Cardea is a glamorous speakeasy in Barangaroo offering a captivating escape. Experience old-world charm with modern luxury in this intimate hideaway.
Nearly 50% off select drinks including:
- $13 Espresso Martinis & Negronis
- $11.50 Aperol Spritz
- $6 Hahn Super Dry Beers
- $10 Pinot Noir & Sauvignon Blanc
Where: Shop 2, T3.01/300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo, Sydney
Offer: Monday to Wednesday 4pm – 6:30pm Sataurday 5:30-6:30pm
Buckle Cafe & Distillery
Artarmon’s newest addition, Buckle Cafe & Distillery, brings together café comfort and distillery charm in a vibrant Lower North Shore spot. Buckle offers everything from breakfast classics to evening cocktails, with a brand-new $9 Happy Hour featuring their house-distilled gin and vodka, pints of beer, and by-the-glass wines.
Enjoy a laid-back drink with signature bites like the Buckle Cheeseburger with wagyu beef, pickles, and fries ($22) or the Margherita Pizza with confit cherry tomatoes ($20), perfect for sharing.
At the heart of the venue sits “Phoebe,” a 150L copper pot still distilling Buckle’s unique spirits, adding to the spot’s unique mix of café and cocktail culture.
Inspired by the legacy of architect Frank Buckle, this space invites you to relax or celebrate in a setting that effortlessly blends modern dining with historical charm.
Where: Buckle Cafe & Distillery, 1 Frederick Street, Artarmon
When: Happy Hour from 5-6pm, Monday to Friday
Sunday Happy Hour Deals
Gin and Tonics at the Sheaf
Celebrate the festive season this November at The Sheaf, where Sundays are all about $10 B&Ts (Bombay Sapphire Gin & Tonics)!
Enjoy in the vibrant flavors of summer while enjoying the lively atmosphere that locals love. Whether you’re unwinding from a bustling week or toasting to the silly season, there’s no better spot than The Sheaf for a Sunday celebration.
When: Sunday throughout November
Where: Golden Sheaf Double Bay
Lunch Deals in the city
Lunchtime in Sydney is a perfect opportunity to explore the city’s best eats without straining your wallet. Whether you need a break from a hard day’s shopping, are catching up with a friend, or seeking a spot for your next business lunch, these fantastic lunch deals in the city will make every midday meal a delightful and budget-friendly experience.
Dan Dan Bottomless Lunch
Dan Dan, the latest Asian-fusion hotspot in Pyrmont, is shaking things up with their brand new Dan Dan Bottomless Lunch.
Feast on seven amazing sharing dishes inspired by Asian flavors. And the best part? You also get two whole hours of bottomless drinks! Now that’s what we call a party on a plate (and in a glass)!
Want to know what’s on the menu? Get ready for some mouth-watering treats:
- Fried Eggplant with Black Vinegar Caramel (Yum!)
- Cheeseburger Spring Rolls (Wait, what? Awesome!)
- Mongolian Lamb (So tasty!)
- Dan Dan Fried Rice (Their signature dish!)
Your two hours of bottomless drinks include Dan Dan Lager, Prosecco, and red or white wine. Cheers to that!
Want to know more? Check out their full menu here.
When: every Friday and Saturday from 11am to 3pm
Where: 1/21 Harris Street Pyrmont
Cost: $79 (minimum 2 people)
Reign Express Lunch
Reign is on the first level of the QVB, and it has these massive windows that overlook George Street, letting in loads of natural light.
Whether you need a shopping break or want someone for a quick business lunch the express menu at ReignShoppers and local workers love Reign’s express lunch.
Choose from Salmon, Beef or Roasted Pumpkin with a choice of side and a glass of house wine.
Where: Level 1 QVB, 455 George Street, Sydney
Offer: $45 (or $50) for 2 courses and wine or $3 oysters every Tue 5-8pm Info and bookings
Monday to Thursday Dinner deals
From the city to the suburbs, Sydney’s weeknight dinner deals offer something for everyone, whether you’re planning a family meal, catching up with friends, or enjoying a cozy 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!
Weekly Special Eats at Felons Manly
Felons Manly has launched a new Weekly Eats menu, running Monday to Thursday, featuring a mix of luxurious and casual specials that make for a perfect midweek treat:
- Monday: Royale Burger with a schooner of beer or house drink for $30. House drinks include their exclusive Felons Japanese Rice Lager, which supports Seabin’s mission to remove plastic from Sydney Harbour with every glass sold.
- Tuesday: Enjoy trivia night and a pizza set menu for four. This $95 set includes antipasti, rosemary flatbread, two pizzas, and a fresh salad.
- Wednesday: Dive into a mixed grill featuring a 120g rump steak, lamb cutlet, thick-cut bacon, pork sausage, and house relish for $35.
- Thursday: Indulge in Lobster Frites—half a lobster with curry butter and fries, plus a glass of Louis Roederer Champagne for $55.
Where: Felons Manly
When: Weekly from Monday to Thursday
Butchers Buffet
If you love Korean food then Butchers (BBQ) Buffet is for you! There are five locations, the newest one in Chinatown, and four in Western Sydney at Blacktown, Eastwood, Cabramatta and Strathfield.
- Deal 1: Unlimited soft drinks for $5 per person with lunch Mon-Thurs 12pm-4pm
- Deal 2: 50% off for kids aged 4-10 on Mondays (2 adults min)
- Deal 3 : Bring 4, pay for 3 Tuesdays – for every four adults dining, the 4th is free
Check their website for the detailed terms and conditions for each offer.
Where: Chinatown, Blacktown, Eastwood, Cabramatta and Strathfield
Offer: too man to mention, including several that I have not listed so check their website.
Gyuniku
Haymarket’s New DIY Japanese BBQ Paradise Gyuniku brings a fresh spin to Japanese BBQ with Sydney’s first premium self-service buffet. Think top-tier wagyu (MB9+) straight from Japan, a live sushi station, and the freedom to feast at your own pace.
Beyond the BBQ, you’ll find traditional hot dishes like Sukiyaki Beef, DIY Chirashi bowls, and a build-your-own frozen yoghurt station complete with Japanese toppings like mochi and fruit jelly. The space feels like a slice of Japan – cozy yakiniku-style BBQ tables meet the buzzing energy of Tokyo’s food markets.
With 30 BBQ stations and room for 110 guests, it’s perfect for group feasts or casual dining. The best part? Premium wagyu cuts, fresh sushi bar, DIY frozen yoghurt !
When: Daily, 12pm-10pm
Where: 34/1 Dixon Street, Haymarket
Price: From $45.90 adults, $27.90 kids
Madam Ji’s New Menu & Bottomless Dinner
Madam Ji is back with a bold new menu that redefines Indian dining. With dishes like Burrata Tadka, Thepla Chicken Tacos, Lamb Shammi Pockets, and crispy Yoghurt Bombs, each bite brings a mix of tradition and rebellion for a thrilling taste experience.
Madam Ji is also launching it’s Ultimate Bottomless Dinner! Enjoy two hours of unlimited drinks and a curated set menu every Monday to Thursday from 5 pm. Sip on Aperol Spritz, Margaritas, fine wines, and craft beers—a perfect evening with friends.
Plus, enjoy Sydney’s happiest hour with $12 cocktails and $7 wines, available weekdays from 5-6 pm and weekends 3-5 pm.
Address: 13 Burton St, Darlinghurst
When: Monday-Thursday 5pm-9pm
Cost: $89 Bookings required
Special occasion dining
When it’s time to celebrate or indulge in a touch of luxury, Sydney’s dining scene offers exquisite options that won’t break the bank. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or simply a night to treat yourself, these venues offer fine dining experiences at a fraction of the usual price. Here are some top choices for creating memorable culinary moments while staying budget-conscious.
Aria Weekday Lunch
Soak up the Sydney Harbour view while enjoying two courses at one of Sydney top fine dining restaurants.
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
Enjoy a two-course set menu celebrating seasonal produce from our garden and local suppliers. Head Chef Dan Cooper curates dishes featuring his favorites, like peaches, artichokes, and cherries.
Join us for a shared meal experience, highlighting peak produce. Enjoy two courses, with an optional wine pairing.
Sample Menu
Entrées
- Wood-fired bread, tomato butter
- Lamb croquette, romesco, mint salsa
- Ox-heart tomato, stone fruit, basil
Main
- Confit duck leg, braised greens, pepper sauce
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.
Shell House Chef’s Table Experience
Hell House Dining Room offers an exclusive ‘Chef’s Table Experience’ for two guests per night. Seated at the kitchen pass, you’ll be immersed in the open kitchen action while enjoying a five-course menu curated by Culinary Director Joel Bickford and Head Chef Brad Guest, showcasing exceptional Australian produce.
Paired beverages, selected by Food & Beverage Director Alex Kirkwood and Head Sommelier Eduardo Fritis-Lamora, elevate the experience.
When: Available nightly
Where: Hell House Dining Room
Cost: $165 per person; beverage pairing $75 per person
Sailmaker Kitchen Table
Experience an exclusive culinary journey at Sailmaker Restaurant, located within the Hyatt Regency Sydney, with the newly launched Kitchen Table.
This premium, multi-course seafood dining experience immerses you in the restaurant’s ‘ocean to plate’ philosophy, showcasing seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers.
Led by Executive Chef Sven Ullrich and his talented culinary team, this intimate dinner setting offers only ten seats per table, ensuring a personalized experience. Enjoy a thoughtfully crafted menu featuring canapés, tapas, shared entrées, a family-style main course, and the restaurant’s signature dessert trolley service.
When: Last Thursday of every month, or on request for private dining experiences for 10+ Time: 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Where: Sailmaker Restaurant, Hyatt Regency Sydney
Cost: $110 per person ($165 with wine pairings)
Three Blue Ducks
The Ducks are all about real food and good company, so they want you to enjoy a banging meal at a great price surrounded by your pals. Their two-course ‘Mate’s Rates Menu’ for $49 combines favourite dishes, at a price that will keep your pocket, and your belly, happy!
Three Blue Ducks is just a walk away from Skye Suites Green Square perfect for a staycation.
Where: 1/85 Dunning Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018
Offer: Tues- Friday lunch and dinner Current menu
Kids Eat Free in Sydney
Looking for family-friendly dining options in Sydney? Many restaurants around the city offer fantastic deals where kids can eat free, making it easier to enjoy a meal out without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re after casual pub food or a more upscale dining experience, these spots welcome families and give a free child’s meal with every adult order.
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
Cooking Classes and Experiences
Ready to roll up your sleeves and get hands-on with Sydney’s culinary scene? These cooking classes and experiences not only satisfy your taste buds but also teach you the tricks of the trade. Whether you’re a budding chef or just love to learn, these sessions offer a delicious way to expand your skills and enjoy some tasty creations along the way.
Foodtography Tours
Are you ready to elevate your food photography game? FUJIFILM Australia is launching ‘Foodtography Tours’ this November, offering an immersive experience for aspiring food photographers and content creators.
In partnership with expert guides, Local Sauce Tours and Foodie Trails, this initiative aims to reveal Sydney and Melbourne’s hidden culinary gems, providing a platform for creativity through the lens.
Event attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to engage hands-on with FUJIFILM’s cutting-edge X-M5 camera, which boasts outstanding image quality and user-friendly features ideal for the creator generation. With expert insights from top ‘FoodTokkers’ like Adrian Widjy and Bianca Wendel, participants will hone their skills and delight in new methods to capture mouth-watering moments.
When: Sat. 23 Nov. & Sat. 30 Nov. 11:30am-2:30pm / 3pm-6pm
Cost: $60 book here
Bottega Coco Pasta Making Class
Embark on a culinary adventure with Chef Pier Davide Maiuri, a master of Italian cuisine known for his work in Michelin Star restaurants and other top-rated venues.
In this hands-on pasta-making class, you’ll learn to create exquisite Italian dishes, including a rich veal pappardelle ragu topped with crushed pistachios and parmesan, alongside a classic buffalo margherita pizza straight from Italy’s southern coast.
After the cooking session, indulge in a shared banquet featuring your delicious creations, making for an unforgettable experience.
When: Sunday, 17 December, 4pm
Where: Bottega Coco, Shop 1 T3.01/300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Cost: $118 per person. Book here.
Regional Deals
VIVE LA SPRING RACING BRUNCH
To celebrate the spring racing season, Honeysuckle Hotel and quintessential French vodka Grey Goose is bringing Spring Spritz dreams to life in Newcastle.
Every Saturday and Sunday throughout October and November you can enjoy an elegant bottomless brunch experience.
For $80 per person, indulge in a luxurious 90-minute dining experience featuring a carefully curated menu of signature dishes. From delicate Mini King Crab Rolls with green apple and fish roe to succulent Garlic Prawn Skewers served with nam jim sauce, each dish has been thoughtfully crafted to complement our Grey Goose cocktail selection.
Elevate your brunch with our selection of refreshing Grey Goose cocktails:
- Grey Goose and Soda – Classic simplicity with Fever-Tree Soda Water
- Seabreeze- A vibrant blend of Pink Grapefruit & Cranberry
- Afternoon Spritz – Prosecco, Lemon & Honey
- Le Grand Spritz – Lime Juice & Elderflower
Vegetarian, Vegan, and Gluten Reduced diets can be catered for.
Where: Wharf C, Honeysuckle Drive Newcastle
For more details visit Honeysuckle Hotel
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.
Feature image: Anason Barangaroo, credit Steven Woodburn.
