Our guide to where to eat and drink at Vivid Sydney is designed to help you find the best options if you are heading to the city to see the Vivid lights. With food and drinks every bit as pretty as the lights themselves, you will want to try to fit in as many of these Vivid Eats and colourful cocktails as you can.

Unless otherwise stated, all these Vivid Food eats and drinks will be available from 26 May-17 June.

Along with all the wonderful official Vivid Food events there are a number of other special Vivid bar and dining offers that are perhaps a little more accessible. We have shared our top picks below.

We all know things get very busy on the weekends during VIVID Sydney so we asked the team at Open Table for their tips

1. Consider Friday or Sunday for weekend dining. Last year, Saturdays were the busiest dining day – try one of these alternate weekend days for more dining choices. 
2. Book at 5pm or 8pm for increased restaurant availability. In 2022, 6pm and 7pm were the most popular sittings – an off peak time can increase your chances of snagging your desired table. 

We always suggest the non football loving book to attend on the State of Origin nights!

Colourful Cocktails for Vivid

Grain Bar

The Four Seasons Hotel has three Vivid options:

Grain Bar – During the weekends, this fantastic bar comes alive with a dazzling Glow Party. Step into a world of glowing face paint, infectious beats spun by a neon DJ, and the delightful taste of expertly crafted cocktails and luminescent bottles of Champagne from the esteemed Moet Hennessy & Dom Perignon. It’s an experience that’s definitely worth checking out before or after strolling through the mesmerizing Vivid Sydney event.

Mode Kitchen – For a Vivid dinner treat, talented Executive Chef Francesco and his amazing team have created an exciting Vivid menu that is available every evening, offering you a three-course feast for just $90 per person. Dinner features plenty of colour with beetroot cure Hiramasa kingfish, Black Murray Cod paired with Brussels sprouts, a touch of color, with the vibrant Vivid Pavlova—a dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

On the Driveway – If you can’t tear yourself away from the lights you can pick up a grilled hot dog on the Hotel’s front drive every weekend during Vivid Sydney. Join the fun and grab a hot dog to go before your Vivid Sydney experience. Follow #BubbleDogSydney on social media for details.

Where: 199 George Street Sydney 
When: Nightly throughout Vivid. Monday – Thursday 4 pm – 11 pm Friday – Saturday 4 pm – 12 am during Vivid
For bookings and reservations, visit their website

Zephyr & Jackalberry

Perfectly positioned along the VIVID light walk in Darling Harbour, Zephyr offers a new vantage point to view the light show and a fantastic spot to take in the light show at Cockle Bay.

The Hyatt Regency’s two bars, Zephyr and Jackalberry will be serving limited-edition Glow Cocktails inspired by VIVID.

The two cocktails; the Disco Mule (also in a mocktail version) and Illuminate G&T will be available exclusively throughout VIVID.

• Disco Mule | $25 – Shine bright throughout VIVID with Disco Mule, Zephyr’s take on a London Mule, served sparkling in a real disco ball in homage of Sydney’s awe-inspiring light installations. Crafted with Bondi Liquor Co. Plink Gin, Orange Curaco, Cherry Herring, lemon juice, lavender syrup, fresh raspberries, and topped with ginger beer
• Disco Mule (mocktail) | $15 – Apple juice, lime juice, strawberry sugar, fresh raspberries, and topped with ginger beer
• Illuminate G&T | $23 – Capturing the essence of light in a glass, our Illuminate G&T is created with Bondi Liquor Co. Citrus Gin and Fever-Tree Sicilian Lemon Tonic, served above a glowing coaster in a Tiki Glass and garnished with edible flowers and mint sprig.

Cocktails at QT

Gowings will offer four Vivid cocktails this year ($22) and I think it might be hard to pick a favourite!

Blue Eyes – Served in a glass made of solid ice this one features Bulldog Gin, vanilla kumquat syrup, blue curacao, caper brine, citrus, and smoky orange bitters are muddled and poured over Bare Bones Ice. A dusting of caper berry, flower and chilli powder bring a punch to each delicately sweet and salty sip.

The Mai Mai – Bring out your inner scientist as you analyse the content of three individual glass test tubes. Watch the colours come to life as you mix your vials of lemongrass infused vodka, ginger, butterfly pea and citrus, until you end up with a regal purple cocktail!

My Pink Lady – A flutter of the brightest blue spirulina, SKYY Vodka, fresh lemon, orgeat, pineapple, cranberry and sage. (image at the top of the page)

Rosearita – The final choice is for the tequila lovers, with a floral pirouette of Espolon blanca tequila, rose, lime and Crème de Violette. This creamy cocktail is topped with a red rose petal.

Where: 1/49 Market St, Sydney 
When: Gowings is open Monday to Saturday, for opening hours please check here.

Three Bottle Man

Make your way to Bulletin Place for a cocktail and sweet treat at Three Bottle Man in the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel. Perfectly positioned just behind Customs House it’s a great spot for when you feet need a bit of a rest.

During the Vivid Sydney festivities, it will be transformed into a glowing laneway destination offering a very delicious and afftodable deal. Enjoy dessert and a beverage from $15. There will also be Vivid inspired cocktails.
Enjoy exclusive-coloured lattes by day and glitter cocktails by night, desserts include coloured cheesecakes and chocolate fondue.

When: 5pm – till late, Wednesday – Saturday
Where: 1 Buttetin Place Sydney

Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park

Conservatory Bar at Sheraton Grand Sydney Hyde Park, has plenty going on with vibrant Vivid inspired cocktails, and Gin tasting sessions.

For a bit of extra fun (and Instagram magic) these Vivid cocktails begin to glow under UV light, specially fitted at Conservatory Bar for the festival.

• the Neon Azure is a must try for the gin lover – a gin sour elevated with a touch of Curacao.
• the Fuego, a spicy watermelon Margarita in a lovely shade of red
• or the Garden Party, a classic Gin & Cucumber / Mint Highball with Elderflower Tonic

Available throughout Vivid with DJs on Friday and Saturday nights from 5pm – 6:30pm.

Sheraton Grand Vivid High Tea

The curated three tiered menu offering is a sweet and savoury haven. Expect everything from almond frangipane tart with raspberry and rosella mousse, salmon gravlax blini, sour cream, finger lime caviar and a selection of scones served with jam and fresh cream.

Enjoy desserts with a edible Vivid Sydney logo and a glass of bubbles on the side for $89pp. Avaliable 12-3pm daily.
Details:

Where: 161 Elizabeth Street Sydney
Full details here

Pier One

Book a spot at the waterside lounges on the pier where you’ll enjoy an array of Vivid-themed  punch-bowl cocktails designed to be shared alongside delicious snacks.

From your seats you will be able to see an installation that is sure to be among the favourites for 2023, the Monad display, which will be projected right in front of the hotel.

• Electric Avenue – a bright blue pineapple rum-based cocktail with lemon and lime flavours, topped with soda for  some fizz.
• Strawberry Sunset – strawberry gin,  raspberry cordial and rosewater
• Twilight Tea – butterfly pea gin with blueberry cordial  and bergamot tea and citrus.
• Starry Night, made with vodka and Davidson plum  combined with bergamot and thyme tea is a balanced and fresh drink to toast to the perfect  evening. 

Non drinkers might enjoy the artisan Hyggelig hot chocolate with rainbow sprinkles and marshmallows, or a spiked hot chocolate at the Vivid Bar. 

Plus, DJs playing live performances every Friday & Saturday night make it the perfect pit stop or  main event for a high-energy night. 

Where: 11 Hickson Road

Endeavour Tap Rooms

In celebration of VIVID, Endeavour Tap Rooms is offering a limited-edition cocktail, THe VIVID Vitrus Lagerita is available exclusively through me&u app. Adding a VIVID twist on two classics it is a fusion of Endeavour Tap Room’s Mexican-style lager brewed at their very own Rocks brewery, with tequila blanco, lime juice, and raspberry-infused agave.

A refreshing cocktail that bursts with sweet, citrusy goodness and glitters among the luminous VIVID lights.

Where: 39-43 Argyle St, The Rocks, Sydney
When: Friday 26th of May 2023 you will get two for the price of one! But the drink is available throughout VIVID
Cost: $12 per glass or $18 per jug
More: Check here for an updated list of menus and for more information

Hyde Hacienda

From their balcony location overlooking Circular Quay, take in the lights on the MCA and Harbour Bridge while you enjoy a cocktail as colourful as Vivid itself.

While their talented bartenders have created an exciting VIVID inspired cocktail and get things off to a start, you get to join the fun by pouring coloured tiles into your cocktail and creating a magical kaleidoscope.

Bookings are essential but only taken for groups of 4 or more so get some friends together but walk-ins are possible for smaller groups.

When: 26th May – 17th June 2023
Where: Pullman Hotel, 61 Macquarie St, Sydney (you can also enter from East Circular Quay
Cost: All of their exclusive Vivid cocktails all at $24 available for a limited time
More: Check more details on their website

Opera Bar

One of the best seats in the house for taking in the Vivid lights, why not take a break here and watch the full show on the Opera House sails while you enjoy a blue cocktail?

Opera Bar this year has 3 Vivid Cocktails ($22)

• Blue Light Disco – Bacardi white rum, apple liqueur, citrus, lime, soda
• Scarlet Glitter – Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz gin, sweet vermouth, shiraz, grapefruit, blood orange
• Coconut Moon – Sailor Jerry spiced rum, Bacardi coconut, pineapple, mango, lime

They will also have a waterside photo booth, placed perfectly along the sea wall, with Sydney as your backdrop, it’s an unbeatable opportunity to capture your VIVID 2023 moment.

In Sydney alone? Join Local Sauce’s VIVID Lights Secret Bar Crawl and see the lights and the cocktails!

CIRQ at Crown Sydney

Raise a glass to exquisite views of the Sydney Harbour, blended with the luxury of an open terrace at Crown Sydney’s award-winning Rooftop Bar, CIRQ.

Where: Level 26, 1 Barangaroo Avenue, Sydney
When: 4pm – 12am (Wed – Fri)/ 12pm – 12am (Sat)/ 12pm – 8pm (Sun)
Full details here

Vivid Special Dining Deals

NEON Ramen

NEON Ramen – a sensational pop-up eatery at the iconic Sydney Opera House, brought to you by the dynamic duo of Archie Rose Distilling Co. and the renowned chicken hotspot in Surry Hills, Butter.

Picture this: you’ll be treated to an incredible view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the dazzling city skyline while slurping on delectable bowls of goodness. It’s like having a front-row seat for the mesmerizing light show that graces the harbor.

Prepare to be captivated by the tantalizing aromas and flavors of NEON Ramen. This collaboration promises a culinary adventure like no other, combining the artistry of Archie Rose Distilling Co. with the expertise of Butter. It’s a match made in foodie heaven!

Where: The Yallamundi Rooms Sydney Opera House
When: May 27th to June 17th, every Friday to Sunday, 5pm till late

Din Tai Fung

Din Tai Fung will offer Rainbow Dumplings (RAINBAO) – perfect for filling your belly on a fantastic autumn night!
5 of Din Tai Fung’s most loved dumpling fillings in one basket, including 1 new flavour – crab meat xiao long bao.

The rainbow dumplings come in red (Sichuan Mala), orange (Black Truffle), yellow (Crab Meat & Pork), purple (Chicken) and green (Vegetable). Din Tai Fung is bringing the vibrant colours of Vivid and incorporating them into their eats, with rainbow dumplings filled with aromatic pork and truffle filling.

Where: All Sydney locations
When: 26th May until 17th June 2023
Cost: r $21.9 (6 PCs at restaurant locations), $15.5 (4 PCs at cafe court locations)
Full details here

Toastie Smith

ToastieSmith is launching their multicoloured  ‘Rainbow Toastie’, which coincides with their newest location at the bottom of the brand new Sales Force Tower showcasing a fusion of diverse colours and delectable ingredients.

The sandwich features a medley of sensations, beginning with the red bread made from beetroot dough, adding a rich and earthy undertone. Nestled between the red bread slices, customers will discover a tantalizing combination of ingredients.

Where: Darling Square, The Galeries and their newly opened 6th location at Sydney Place just in time for Vivid.
Full details here

Squires Landing

WIth a dress circle view right in the thick of things a meal a Squires Landing allows you to enjoy the lights while you eat your dinner. There is a 2 course menu on offer with three dining options here this year. You can choose regular seating, private dining room (for groups of 8-10) and window seating with prices ranging from $89 to $116

Botanic House

Enjoy Australian chef Luke Nguyen’s nine course tasting menu while nestled among Vivid’s Lightscape journey.

Botanic House is conveniently located in the midst of the Lightscape activation. While purchasing a Lightscape ticket is not essential to dine at the restaurant, guests will be gracefully escorted to and from the venue. However, if you wish to immerse yourself fully in the enchanting Lightscape experience, a separate ticket purchase is required.

Where: Botanic House – Royal Botanic Garden
When: From 26 May to 16 July (until the end of Lightscape)
Book here

Terrace on the Domain

If you are walking through the Lightscape, Terrace on the Domain will make a good stop. I am always a fan of their happy hour but during VIVID they will have some special deals.

Terrace on the Domain will be hosting ‘Vivid Hour’ whereby each venue will offer specials on delicious beverages to celebrate Vivid.

The Dining Room

The views continue in the Dining Room where you sit almost directly opposite the Opera House. You can choose from a special Vivid menu or the regular menu. Prices start from $150 and you can book guaranteed window seating.

WINGHAÜS

WingHAÜS by Bavarian Barangaroo is a spinoff of Australia’s fun-loving Bavarian family. It offers two takeaway feasts: Vivid Sydney family feast ($89) and Vivid Sydney burger feast ($89). The latter includes four burgers, four soft drinks, and a $15 light up frozen cocktail.

When: Check their website
Where: L2 Cleland Bond Building,33 Playfair Street,The Rocks, Sydney

Play With Your Dinner

Vivid Sydney offers an immersive dining and art experience, combining food, art and culture to create a vibrant visual feast. Play With Your Dinner will push your understanding of culinary art to new levels – and leave you with a beautiful canvas memento to take home.

When: FROM 4 JUNE 2023
Where: 69 Commonwealth Street, Surry Hills
More info here

More Vivid Foodie Fun

Carriageworks Night Markets

With more than 50 of the city’s best restaurants, bars and producers in attendance this is bound to be a sell out event.

Dine in eats from Queen Chow, Sake, Three Blue Ducks and Messina, alongside sustainable NSW and Australian producers Bondi Oysters, DHUWAA Coffee, Vannella Cheese. Tickets $15

When: Friday 16 June, 5pm–10pm
Where: Carriageworks

Vivid Fire Kitchen, the Cutaway at Barangaroo 

Vivid Fire Kitchen is set to showcase the art of fire-cookery and will feature demonstrations from experts from Sydney and beyond. The stars include Lennox Hastie of Firedoor, the talented Dave Pynt from the Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Singapore, the celebrated Australian-born Texas pitmaster Jess Pryles, and the 2022 World Barbecue Champion Sterling Smith from Arizona.

If the demos make you hungry you can purhase east from Nola Smokehouse & Bar and Alibi Bar & Dining. To complement the culinary delights, a selection of signature beverages will be available from pop-up bars featuring Tempus Two wines, 4 Pines Brewing Co., Unexpected Guest Gins, and Mr Black espresso martinis.

The highlight of the event will be the exquisite Fire + Ice cocktail, adorned with a flaming marshmallow and served in an edible ice cup, truly embodying the fusion of fire and ice.

Vivid Fire Kitchen will be open to the public free of charge throughout the duration of Vivid Sydney. It presents a unique opportunity for food enthusiasts and curious minds alike to immerse themselves in the captivating world of fire-cookery, discovering new flavors and techniques in an unforgettable setting.

Where: The Cutaway Barangaroo
When: Friday 26 May–Saturday 17 June

NOLA Smokehouse and Bar

NOLA Smokehouse and Bar offers a premium New Orleans experience with smoked meats, American whiskey, live music, and warm southern hospitality. Dine in the bar or dining room for a meal.

Where: NEW ORLEANS INSPIRED SMOKEHOUSE x AMERICAN WHISKEY BAR Level 1, One International Towers Sydney, Cnr Barangaroo Ave & Shipwright Walk, Barangaroo South
When: Happy Hour from Wednesday to Saturday 4pm–6pm
Cost: Offer includes: $12 Cyclone cocktails, $12 Hurricane cocktails, $7 House spirits, $8 House wines, $5 House beers, $10 Fried chicken. Details here

Lovefish

Dive into your Vivid Sydney experience as they offers a delicious seafood dining experience in a unique, waterfront setting. Love fish has brought their brand of sustainable seafood to The Streets, and the drinks list showcases Australian spirits, environmentally-conscious wines, and produce-driven cocktails. With views of the harbour, it’s the perfect location for lunch, dinner, or an afternoon of champagne and oysters.

Where: Wulugul Walk,,7/23 Barangaroo Avenue, Barangaroo NSW
When: Weekdays only 5pm-6:30pm
Cost: $100 (for 2 pax) to enjoy a seafood platter and a bottle of Atlas Clare Valley Riesling or rose. Details here

Ume Burger Darling Square

The new spiritual home of Ume Burger’s much loved Surry Hills venue “Bar Ume”.  Ume Burger Darling Square is serving up the same Japanese inspired burgers and bar food that made it a local institution.

Where: 1 Little Pier Street, Darling Exchange, Haymarket 2000 NSW
When: Wednesday-Saturday from 11:30am-2:30pm & 4:30pm-9:00pm / Sunday from 11:30am-2:30pm
Full guide here

Light Up Your Senses at the Pylon

Vivid Sydney offers a majestic view of the city from the Sydney Harbour Bridge’s South-East Pylon, while DJs provide the perfect soundtrack.

Where: BRIDGECLIMB PYLON LOOKOUT & MUSEUM/ Sydney Harbour Bridge, South-East Pylon, 3 Cumberland Street, The Rocks
When: FROM 26 MAY 2023/ 5:45PM – 9:45PM
Cost: From $99.99. Booking and transaction fees may apply. Details here

If you have not planned your visit yet, check out all our tips for enjoying your night at Vivid Sydney.

Got a question? Head over to our FB group and ask us, or a local for help.

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