Where to Book New Year’s Eve Dinner in Sydney 2025

Looking for the best Sydney NYE restaurant with fireworks views? You’re not alone, thousands of people search for this every year. Finding a restaurant with NYE fireworks and a great meal can be overwhelming.

I’ve dined at many of these venues and have put together this guide to help you choose the right one for your celebration. Whether you want front row harbour views or a more intimate setting, here’s what you need to know about Sydney’s New Year’s Eve dining options for 2025.

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How Much Does NYE Dinner Cost in Sydney?

Here are some of the top-rated New Year’s Eve restaurants in Sydney with fireworks views, based on my personal dining experiences:

Quick Restaurant Comparison

Venue	Price Range*	Harbour View	My Rating
Cafe Sydney	$1,450	Exceptional	★★★★★
Park Hyatt	From $1,200	Excellent	★★★★★
Aria	$850-$950	Exceptional	★★★★★
The Fenwick	$850	Good	★★★★
EastBank	$950	Excellent	★★★★
Luna Lu	$600-$800 (est)	Excellent	★★★★
Bar 83	$765-$950	360° City	★★★★★
Infinity	From $801	360° Harbour	★★★★
Skyfeast	$750-$850	360° City	★★★★
City Extra	$750/$400	Excellent	★★★
6HEAD	$500-$700 (est)	Excellent	★★★★
View Hotel	$550/$250	Very Good	★★★★
Ripples	$295/$175/$75	Good	★★★★

*Estimated price range based on last year if current pricing is not yet released

How to Choose Your NYE Restaurant

From my experience attending numerous NYE dinners across Sydney, here’s what matters when booking your New Year’s Eve restaurant:

Book by early December – Unlike previous years, popular venues now sell out weeks in advance. Most require full payment upfront.

Consider your priorities:

• Best fireworks views: Cafe Sydney, Park Hyatt, Bar 83
• Family-friendly options: View Hotel, Ripples, Q Station
• Value for money but no view: Chiosco, The Winery, Sailmaker

Planning your first Sydney NYE?

First time? Check our first timer’s guide to NYE in Sydney. Looking for other options? See our NYE Megalist or NYE Cruises.

NYE Dining at Circular Quay and The Rocks
Best Harbour Bridge Views

These venues offer the most spectacular views of both the Bridge and Opera House. Book early – they’re the first to sell out.

★★★★★ Cafe Sydney

My verdict: Worth every dollar. I’ve dined at Cafe Sydney several times and the combination of exceptional food and unbeatable harbour views makes this my top pick for NYE. The sixth-floor position gives you front-row seats to the fireworks without any obstructions.

What to expect: Six-course dinner featuring premium Australian produce, matched wines, and a cocktail on arrival. The service is impeccable and the atmosphere electric without being overwhelming.

Dress code: Smart casual
Book by: Early December l Cost: $1,450 plus booking fee.
Phone: 02 8298 0322 | View the menu l Email: [email protected]

★★★★★ Park Hyatt Hotel

My verdict: The most sophisticated NYE option in Sydney with three distinct experiences. The rooftop party offers the best value for premium positioning, while The Dining Room provides intimate luxury. Perfect for couples wanting elegance over party atmosphere.

Three ways to celebrate:

• The Living Room – Intimate 4-course dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for smaller groups wanting conversation over party vibes.
• The Dining Room – Classic fine dining with a choice of a 3 or 5 course menu. Available for early or late dining with semi private and private spaces available. Magical Opera House views.
• Rooftop Party – The venue’s signature experience is an 18 years and over event. It will offer free-flowing canapés and champagne all night. There will be fresh seafood stations, live entertainment and a DJ. Ticket options include cocktail style, cabana’s and premium cabanas with the best viewing positions.

Contact: For The Dining Room & The Living Room, enquire via booking form. Rooftop party tickets available online.
Where: Park Hyatt Sydney, 7 Hickson Rd, The Rocks
Price: from $1,200pp l View the menus | Make a booking online or Phone: (02) 9256 1661

★★★★★ Altitude at Shangri-La
Sydney’s Ultimate NYE Dining Experience

My verdict: If budget isn’t a concern and you want the absolute best, Altitude on level 36 is unmatched. The combination of elevation, fine dining, and those views makes this Sydney’s most prestigious NYE booking. Yes, it’s expensive – but it’s also unforgettable.

What to expect: Eight-course degustation by Executive Sous-Chef Michele Menegazzi featuring wagyu beef wellington and honey-glazed duck breast. Wine pairings selected by Executive Sommelier Shun Eto elevate each course. The pavlova tower finale arrives as fireworks light up the harbour below.

The view factor: From level 36, you’re looking down at the Bridge and Opera House. Both 9pm and midnight fireworks feel like private shows. No craning necks or jostling for position – just panoramic perfection.

Pricing tiers:

• Main dining room: $1,650 per person (matched wines included)
• Window table guarantee: $2,350 per person (matched wines included)
• Private dining room: $29,000 minimum (up to 18 guests) plus 10% service

Critical booking note: Completely non-refundable with no exceptions. They recommend travel insurance. This is a commitment, not a maybe.

When: 7:30pm-12:30am, 31 December 2025
Book: (02) 9250 6000 | [email protected]

★★★★★ Whalebridge

My verdict: Premium harbourside dining with unobstructed views at Circular Quay. The two-tier pricing reflects table positioning – worth the premium for water’s edge tables. French champagne flowing all evening elevates the experience significantly.

What to expect: Culinary director David Clarke’s refined menu featuring Oscietra caviar, fruits de mer selection, wagyu sirloin with Tasmanian wasabi butter. The citron tart finale pairs beautifully with the harbour fireworks backdrop.

Insider tip: The water’s edge tables at $1,400 offer superior views compared to the standard bistro seating at $1,100. Both include unlimited French champagne.

Where: 8 & 9 Circular Quay
Cost: Bistro Water’s Edge $1,400pp | Bistro $1,100pp
Bookings: Make a booking | Phone: (contact number)

★★★ City Extra

My experience: This 24-hour venue offers prime Circular Quay positioning, the view is exceptional but service can struggle on busy nights. Worth considering if other venues are booked out or if travelling with kids.

What to expect: Four-course meal with open bar for the entire evening, plus live entertainment throughout the night. The real drawcard is access to the ticketed-only harbour foreshore area directly in front of the restaurant – this gives you an unobstructed view of both the 9pm and midnight fireworks that you can’t get anywhere else at this price point.

Insider tip: They’ve sold out as early as August in previous years, so don’t wait. The outdoor foreshore access is what makes this special – you’re not just watching from inside.

Cost: Adult $700, under 18yrs, $380
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: 02 9241 1422

★★★★ Joji Sydney

My verdict: Elevated city views without the harbour premium pricing. The location above Cartier in the CBD offers impressive skyline panoramas. Good value for those prioritising atmosphere and food quality over fireworks views.

What to expect: Curated canapé menu including beef Katsu Sando, Wagyu tartare with potato hash, and King Salmon Marki. DJs create energy whilst Dom Pérignon Luminous adds luxury touches.

Where: Level 5/388 George St, Sydney
Cost: $220pp (2.5hr beverage package additional $80pp)
Bookings: Make a booking

★★★★ EastBank Cafe – Front Row Harbour Views

My verdict: Prime positioning on Circular Quay’s Eastern pontoon delivers genuinely front-row seats to the Bridge fireworks. The ECQ promenade access wristband is a huge bonus – you can step outside for both the 9pm and midnight shows without fighting crowds.

What to expect: Five-course degustation featuring premium ingredients like MB9+ Wagyu and WA lobster. The menu reads like a special occasion wishlist. Wine pairings throughout complement each course perfectly.

Insider tip: The promenade access alone is worth hundreds – other venues charge $400+ just for standing room in this area. You get seated dining plus outdoor viewing access.

When: 7:30pm arrival (sparkling on arrival), food service from 8pm
Where: Eastern Pontoon, Circular Quay
Cost: $950 per person
Contact: 02 9241 6722 | [email protected]

★★★★★ Aria

My verdict: Tom Gorringe’s harbourside icon offers three distinct NYE experiences. The main event delivers exceptional fine dining with premium wine pairings, whilst the new cocktail party provides a more relaxed harbour celebration.

Three celebration options:

Early Sitting – Perfect for families or pre-fireworks dining, enjoy a three-course menu with champagne 5pm-6:30pm (1.5 hours) – $320pp

Cocktail Party – New standing option in Wharf Room will offer a three-hour beverage package curated by head sommelier with luxury canapés and entertainment all night. From 8.30pm till late $650pp

Where: 1 Macquarie St, Sydney
Bookings: Make a booking | Phone: (02) 9240 2255

Luna Lu

My verdict: Elegant harbourside dining with a Southeast Asian twist. The outdoor terrace provides unobstructed views of both harbour icons. More intimate than the larger Circular Quay venues, making it perfect for couples or small groups.

What to expect: Four-course shared banquet featuring premium dishes like charred lobster tail and MB5+ wagyu. Start with Thiénot x Penfolds Champagne before enjoying East 33 oysters, beef tartare, and your choice of mains. The cocktail list is exceptional, and the service strikes the right balance between attentive and relaxed.

Insider tip: The front row terrace seats command premium prices but guarantee unobstructed fireworks views. Bar Lulu offers a more affordable option with the same spectacular views in a cocktail party atmosphere. Book before 1 December for cancellation flexibility.

Where: Campbells Cove, Bays 4-5 Campbells Stores, The Rocks
When: 6pm-12:30am (must vacate by 1am)
Cost: Front Row $1,325pp | Outdoor $1,200pp | Indoor $1,000pp | Kids (under 10) from $400pp
Bar Lulu option: $595pp (stand-up cocktail style with roaming canapés)

6HEAD

My verdict: Serious steak lovers should book here. The premium beef selection is outstanding and the harbour views from the dining room are pristine. More substantial than seafood-focused venues if you prefer heartier fare.

What to expect: Six-course menu showcasing 6HEAD’s famous dry-aged steaks (aged 6-14 weeks in-house) alongside refined dishes like squid ink gnocchi with octopus and toothfish with miso glaze. Complete beverage package flows until 1am. The 1.5kg O’Connor Tomahawk MB5+ for sharing is a showstopper.

Insider tip: Book waterfront tables for the best fireworks views, but even indoor diners enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere and can step outside for the midnight show.

Where: Campbell’s Cove, The Rocks
When: December 31, 2025 (closing at 1am)
Cost: Indoor $1,000pp | Outdoor Partial View $1,200pp | Waterfront $1,350pp | Front Row Tables $12,500 (up to 8 guests) Phone: (02) 9252 5078 | Email: [email protected]

Botanic House by Luke Nguyen

Best for: Fine dining with garden-to-harbour views

Set in the heart of the Royal Botanic Gardens, celebrated Chef Luke Nguyen offers an exclusive NYE degustation that combines premium dining with prime fireworks viewing.

The experience includes:

• Six-course degustation with wine pairings by Head Sommelier Louella Mathews
• Continuous beverage service
• Live entertainment throughout the evening
• Access to exclusive garden viewing spots for both 9pm and midnight fireworks

This unique location allows you to enjoy a sophisticated dinner service before strolling through the gardens to waterfront vantage points for the fireworks displays.

When: 6pm – 12:30am
Cost: Early bird $750pp, second release $850pp, 18+ event.
View the menu or make a booking (essential)| Phone: 1300 558 980

The Glenmore Hotel

My verdict: A younger crowd and party atmosphere. The rooftop gets packed but the Opera House views are genuinely spectacular. Best for groups wanting a lively celebration rather than intimate dining.

What to expect: Roaming canapés (not a sit-down meal), 4-hour beverage package, and entertainment including silent disco and tarot readers. The recovery kit is a nice touch.

Insider tip: Arrive early for the best spots near the glass barriers. The back area near the bar has limited views.

Cost :2025 sold out
View the menu & make a booking | Phone: 2 9247 4794

Restaurants on the North Side of the Harbour

These venues offer harbour views from a different perspective. You’ll see the city skyline and fireworks but not always the Bridge up close. Generally better value than Circular Quay options.

★★★★ View Hotel – Dine

My verdict: Excellent choice for families. The buffet format means fussy eaters are catered for, and the kids’ entertainment keeps little ones happy. Views of the harbour and city are impressive, though you’re viewing the Bridge from behind.

Package Includes:

• A buffet with fresh seafood, hot dishes, salads, carvery meats, and a dessert station.
• Special kids’ menu with entertainment packs.
• A beverage package with Australian wines, French sparkling wine, beers, soft drinks, and juices.
• Exclusive viewing area for the 9pm and midnight fireworks.
• Live acoustic entertainment, followed by a DJ set in Wylde Bar.

A fun family-friendly event.

Cost: Adult $550, Kids under 12 years $250 plus booking fee
Make a booking | Phone: 1800 206020

★★★★ Ripples at Chowder Bay

My verdict: A hidden gem with gorgeous harbour views minus the Circular Quay prices. The heritage setting at Chowder Bay adds charm, though you won’t see the Bridge or Opera House directly. Food quality consistently impresses.

What to expect: Four -course menu with matched beverages all evening. The relaxed atmosphere suits families and couples alike. Parking available on-site (rare for NYE venues).

Insider tip: Book a window table for best views. The outdoor terrace gets crowded at midnight.

Cost: Adult $335, Kids 12-18 years $175 Children under 12 years $75
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: 2 9960 3000

★★★★ Felons Manly

My verdict: Relaxed beachside celebration with 9pm fireworks display. The $149 price point offers excellent value including welcome drink and shared menu. Great for families wanting earlier celebrations away from city crowds.

What to expect: Sunset feast with fresh seafood, premium sirloin, roaming desserts. DJs inside and on jetty create festival atmosphere. Kids under 12 have dedicated menu.

Where: East Esplanade, Manly
Cost: $149pp (kids under 12 special menu)
Opens: 11am, NYE celebrations from 6pm l Bookings: Make a booking

★★★★ Felons Seafood

My verdict: More upmarket Manly option with three-course NYE menu. The lobster with garlic butter and prawn pasta showcase quality seafood. Early sittings offer flexibility with à la carte options.

What to expect: À la carte from 5pm or exclusive three-course menu from 8pm featuring signature seasonal trifle. 9pm fireworks display for Manly harbour.

Where: East Esplanade, Manly
Cost: Late sitting $240pp (includes welcome drink) l Bookings: Make a booking

★★★★ Hugos Manly

My verdict: Premium Manly waterfront with same front-row fireworks views as Felons. The three-course menu features Hiramasa kingfish and barramundi and suits the harbourside location perfectly.

What to expect: Seasonal dishes including king prawns, barramundi, sirloin steak with shared sides. Choice of tiramisu or chocolate mousse cake. Impeccable service with 9pm harbour fireworks.

Where: Manly Wharf, Shop/1 E Esplanade, Manly
Cost: Indoor $250pp | Outdoor $300pp
Reservations: From 5:30pm l Bookings: Make a booking

My verdict: Worth the journey for a unique NYE experience. The historic quarantine station setting offers distant but panoramic harbour views. Less crowded than city venues with a relaxed atmosphere.

What to expect: Three-course menu with 2-hour beverage package. Two seatings (5:30pm or 7:30pm) allow flexibility. The heritage buildings create atmospheric dining, though you’re quite far from the action.

Transport tip: Pre-book transport – it’s isolated and taxis are scarce.

Cost: Adult ticket $249
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: (02) 9466 1511

Chirosco by Ormeggio

My verdict: Alessandro Pavoni’s casual venue offers excellent value but limited fireworks views. Come for the food quality rather than the spectacle. The early seating works well for families.

What to expect: Bespoke sharing feast with two seating times. The 5pm seating suits families; the 8pm seating lets you stay past midnight. Beautiful waterside location but you’ll only glimpse distant fireworks.

Cost: $155 adults
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: (02) 9046 7333

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NYE Restaurants on the Southside of the Harbour

My verdict: This year’s collaboration with Chef Mark Best elevates Infinity’s already impressive offering. Best, known for his three-hat restaurant Marque and appearances on MasterChef Australia, brings his innovative approach to modern Australian cuisine.

The revolving dining room remains Sydney’s highest NYE vantage point, offering unmatched 360° views of the fireworks display.

What to expect:

• Six-course degustation crafted by Mark Best featuring premium Australian produce
• Matched wines curated by head sommelier James Waterhouse
• Live jazz ensemble from 9:30pm
• Complete venue rotation during dinner ensures every guest experiences optimal harbour views
• Dedicated viewing areas for both 9pm and midnight fireworks
• Optional Champagne upgrade featuring vintage Dom Pérignon

Insider tips:

• Premium window seats ($90 surcharge) guarantee prime positioning during fireworks
• Request north-facing tables for the best Bridge views during dinner
• Early 6:30pm seating recommended for families with young children
• Vegetarian and vegan menus available with 72 hours notice
• Dress code: Cocktail attire, no sneakers or denim

When: December 31, 2025, First seating: 6:30pm-9:30pm (includes 9pm fireworks). Second seating: 8:30pm-12:30am (includes midnight fireworks)
Cost: Standard seating: $895 per adult, $295 children (4-12 years), Window guarantee: Additional $90 per person, Premium package with Dom Pérignon: $1,195 per person
Booking essential: (02) 8023 7600 | Website

★★★★ Skyfeast at Sydney Tower

My verdict: The best family-friendly option with views. The buffet format keeps everyone happy and the kids are free to move around. Views are spectacular though you’re watching from above rather than waterside.

What to expect: Premium buffet with seafood, roasts, and extensive desserts. Free-flowing beverages including Champagne. Kids love watching the city lights whilst parents enjoy the wine selection.

Three packages are available, including an alcohol-free option. Window seat option available for $100 surcharge.

Cost: From $750-850 adults $250 kids (4-12 years) = $100 less for non-alcohol option
View the menu and make a booking | Phone: 1300 391 808

★★★★★ Bar 83

My verdict: The ultimate NYE party venue with incredible views. Not a sit-down dinner but the atmosphere is electric and the 260° views are unbeatable. Perfect for groups wanting to dance and celebrate.

What to expect: Standing event with premium roaming canapés, food stations, top-shelf spirits, and Champagne. DJ from 9:30pm turns it into a proper party. The outdoor terrace section offers the best fireworks viewing.

Insider tip: The early bird tickets offer significant savings – jump on these in October.

When: 8:30pm – 1am
Cost: $765-$950 p.p. (depending on package and release date)
View the menu and make a booking | Phone: 1300 391 808

NYE Dining in Bondi and the east

★★★★★ Icebergs Dining Room and Bar

My verdict: First time in over a decade Bondi hosts large-scale NYE celebrations. Two seating options cater to different preferences – sunset dinner with elrow festival ticket or late sitting with midnight fireworks views.

What to expect: Set menu options with live DJs. Sunset sitting (4:30pm-7:30pm) includes elrow Bondi Beach XXL ticket. Late sitting (8:30pm) features Charlie Chux sounds with front-row midnight fireworks.

Where: 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach
Bookings: Make a booking

★★★ Three Blue Ducks Rosebery

My verdict: Relaxed celebration blending polished dining with family-friendly touches. Live music and kids’ face painting create family friednly atmosphere while the food, from scallop snacks to coal-roasted snapper will impress.

What to expect: A fun night (without a view) welcome drink, live music, and sharing-style menu featuring warm Basque cheesecake finale. Kids’ face painting adds family appeal.

Where: 1/85 Dunning Ave, Rosebery
Cost: $105 pp l View the menu or  Make a booking

★★★ Olympus

My verdict: Pure party energy over dining experience. The transformation into a “modern Athenian amphitheatre” with dance-floor lighting creates proper club atmosphere. Good value for three hours of premium drinks and substantial food, though expect standing/dancing rather than seated dinner.

What to expect: Roaming plates with “big Greek flavours” keep you fuelled whilst Four Pillars cocktails, champagne, wine and beer flow freely. Daimon Downey (Sneaky Sound System) hosts with DJ Rich Penny (RÜFÜS DU SOL, FISHER) running decks all night. Midnight Louis Roederer Champagne toast included.

The reality: This is a party, not a restaurant dinner. You’re paying for the energy, entertainment and free-flowing drinks rather than harbour views or fine dining.

Where: Olympus (address not specified)
When: Wednesday 31 December 2025, 9pm-2am
Cost: $299pp (includes all food + 3-hour beverage package 9pm-12am, bar open until 2am)
Bookings: www.olympusdining.com.au

Views from West of the Harbour Bridge

These venues may view the Darling Harbour fireworks rather than the main harbour display. Great for families wanting an earlier celebration.

Sailmaker Restaurant

My verdict: Hyatt Regency’s restaurant offers sophisticated dining without harbour views. The five-course menu showcases quality produce. You’ll need to walk to Darling Harbour or Pyrmont for midnight fireworks.

What to expect: Five courses featuring wagyu, Murray cod and margra lamb. No fireworks views from the restaurant but you’re a 10-minute walk from good viewing spots.

Cost: Adults $199, Kids (6-12 years) $89pp – 2 hour beverage package $54pp
More details & view the menu | Phone  2 8099 1234

★★★★ The Fenwick

My verdict: Balmain’s newest waterfront gem delivers sophisticated dining with harbour views. You’ll see the western side of the Bridge beautifully. The degustation menu rivals much pricier venues.

My verdict: Balmain’s newest waterfront gem delivers sophisticated dining with harbour views. You’ll see the western side of the Bridge beautifully. The degustation menu rivals much pricier venues.

Insider tip: The ferry back to Circular Quay won’t restart until late -waterntaxis are very expensive and need to be booked in advance.

Cost: $895pp
View the menu | 02 9159 4700

★★★★ The Dry Dock

My verdict: Smart Balmain option combining quality dining with strategic location. The four-course sharing feast by Ben Sitton offers excellent value, whilst the proximity to Mort Bay Park provides easy fireworks access.

What to expect: Four-course sharing dinner with Lallier Réflexions champagne or Asahi on arrival. DJs Jonny Gleeson and Chris Arnott play from 6pm-2am. Guests can walk to Mort Bay Park for fireworks viewing and return to continue celebrations.

Transport solution: Complimentary shuttle bus runs between venue and Rozelle taxi/Uber pickup from 7pm-1am – this solves the usual Balmain transport challenge.

Where: 22 Cameron St, Balmain
Cost: $195pp (optional upgrades available) l Bookings: Make a booking

Making Your Choice

After dining at dozens of Sydney’s waterfront restaurants over the years, I’ve found that choosing the right NYE venue comes down to matching your priorities with what each restaurant does best.

Here’s my quick reference guide to help you decide:

• Best Overall Experience: Cafe Sydney – unbeatable combination of food, service and views
• Best for Families: View Hotel or Ripples Chowder Bay
• Best Party Atmosphere: Bar 83 or The Glenmore
• Best Value with Views: Ripples ($295)
• Hidden Gems: The Fenwick (waterfront sophistication) or Q Station (unique heritage setting)

Remember to factor in transport when choosing – venues in The Rocks are walking distance to trains, whilst Balmain and Chowder Bay require pre-booked transport.

Most importantly, book early. The best venues with harbour views typically sell out by mid-November.

Check out these other articles on enjoying Sydney over the holiday period

• Christmas Events and Activities
• Shop Local Sydney Christmas Guide
• Choose a NYE Harbour Cruise
• New Year’s Eve Megalist

Main image: View Hotel North Sydney