Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day restaurant isn’t just about securing a booking at the most expensive venue – it’s about choosing a space that matches your relationship’s unique style. This curated guide goes beyond the obvious harbourside spots to help you find your ideal romantic setting, whether you’re planning an intimate first Valentine’s together or celebrating decades of partnership.
Valentine’s Day is on Friday 14 February 2025
Here’s our guide to Sydney’s special occasion restaurants, from waterfront fine dining to casual neighbourhood gems. We’ve included verified pricing and booking information where available to help you plan your celebration.
How to Use This Guide
- Many restaurants offer both lunch and dinner sittings
- Prices are indicated from $ (under $100pp) to $$$$ (over $250pp)
- Booking links and phone numbers are provided where available
- Some venues require advance bookings and deposits
This page contains affiliate links. You can find our full disclosure policy here.
With Valentine’s day falling on a Friday this year you will need to book early to secure the most popular spots. On a budget? Book Thursday diner or Sunday lunch Alternatively consider a mystery picnic.
Show-Stopping Celebrations
When only the most impressive venue will do, these restaurants deliver unforgettable experiences worthy of life’s biggest moments.
Bennelong
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Grand & Iconic
For the ultimate Sydney Valentine’s celebration, Peter Gilmore’s four-course menu under the Opera House sails comes with live jazz by Emma Pask and Matt McMahon. Choose between the Main Dining Room with harbour views or intimate counter seating near the stage.
What’s Included:
- Four-course menu with choice of main
- Optional wine pairings available
Insider Tip: Ask about window seating when booking – the harbour views are spectacular. Come early to enjoy sunset drinks in the bar area.
When: Friday 14 February, reservations from 5pm
Cost: $330 per person
View the menu | Make a booking | 02 9240 8000
Altenative: Consider Midden on the forecourt for Native Australian flavours
Aria
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Sophisticated & Contemporary
Executive Chef Tom Gorringe presents a five-course Valentine’s menu showcasing premium Australian produce, with harbour views as your backdrop. The menu features delicate seafood courses leading to a sharing sirloin, making this perfect for couples who appreciate fine dining with a view.
Valentine’s Menu Highlights:
- Yellowfin tuna with citrus, kombu & cucumber
- Clarence River prawns with heirloom tomato
- Maremma duck with fig
- Sharing wagyu sirloin
- Chocolate, coffee & amaretto caramel
Cost: $240 per person
When: Friday 14 February 2025
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: (02) 9240 2255
Quay
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Refined & Exclusive
Choose between two Valentine’s experiences at Peter Gilmore’s harbourside icon: the full seven-course journey in the Main Dining Room, or a three-course celebration in the Green Room with sweeping harbour views.
Extra Touches: Pre-order Champagne or flowers from Quay’s floral artist-in-residence
Group Offer: Tables of 4+ receive Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV for $120
When: From 5:30pm, Friday 14 February
Cost: $255 per person green room and $380 Main dining room
Booking: Full payment required | Non-refundable after 7 February | Phone: (02) 9251 5600
Waterfront Romance
Sydney’s restaurants with water views offer some of the most romantic settings for Valentine’s Day dining. From historic wharves to beachside terraces, these venues combine stunning vistas with exceptional cuisine. While our showstoppers section covers the Opera House precinct, these waterfront gems offer equally memorable experiences in unique harbour locations.
Luna Lu
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Contemporary Asian Fusion
With panoramic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Luna Lu offers a four-course shared banquet for Valentine’s weekend. The menu combines luxury ingredients with Asian fusion flair, available Friday through Sunday.
Valentine’s Menu Highlights:
- Appellation oysters with oscietra caviar
- Heart-shaped sesame prawn toast
- Rose-shaped kingfish sashimi
- MB9 wagyu rump cap
- Raspberry pecan brownie heart
What’s Included:
- Four-course shared banquet
- Glass of Chandon Vintage Brut on arrival
- Harbour views
When: February 14-16, 2025
Cost: $165 per person
Booking: View the menu and make a booking directly on their website
Otto Woolloomooloo
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Sophisticated Italian
Experience la dolce vita this Valentine’s Day on the historic Finger Wharf. Otto’s three-course choice menu comes with city views and their signature Italian hospitality.
What’s Included:
- Welcome Spritz cocktail
- Three-course choice menu
- Optional extras: caviar, oysters, assaggi
Group Offer: Tables of 4+ receive Charles Heidsieck Brut Réserve NV for $120
When: From 5pm, Friday 14 February
Cost: $195 per person
Booking: Full payment required | Non-refundable after 9 February
Kingsley’s Woolloomooloo
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Classic & Convivial
A stalwart of the historic Finger Wharf, Kingsley’s combines prime waterfront positioning with classic steakhouse excellence. This Valentine’s Day, they’re offering a special Terra & Tide celebration across two nights, perfect for those who want flexibility in their romantic dining plans.
Valentine’s Celebration Details:
- Available Friday & Saturday, 14th & 15th February 2025
- Terra & Tide Set Menu
- Glass of Moët & Chandon on arrival
Cost: $169 per person
Booking: Essential
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: (02) 83222090
Insider Tip: The wharf-side tables offer the best ambiance, particularly as the sun sets over the marina. Request these when booking for the most romantic experience.
North Bondi Fish
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Coastal Casual
With prime views over Bondi Beach, North Bondi Fish offers a more laid-back Valentine’s celebration. Perfect for couples, friends, or group celebrations, their four-course menu comes with optional upgrades for those wanting extra special touches.
When: Friday 14 February
Cost: $99 per person
Location: 120 Ramsgate Ave, North Bondi
Booking: (02) 9130 2155
Tip: Great for both romantic dinners and group celebrations – they welcome Valentines, Pals, and Galentines alike.
Ormeggio Mosman
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Modern & Serene
Overlooking Middle Harbour from The Spit, Ormeggio offers two Valentine’s menu options showcasing their signature blend of Italian technique and Australian seafood.
Optional Add-ons:
- Sydney rock oysters (from $8)
- Signature cheese box (from $40)
- Matched wines ($95)
- Fresh seafood upgrades available
Insider Tip: Allow extra travel time – the location is stunning but can be tricky to reach during peak hours.
When: Friday 14 February
Location: D’Albora Marinas The Spit, Spit Rd, Mosman
Cost: Four-course sharing menu ($219pp), Premium menu upgrade (+$70pp)
Booking: (02) 9969 4088
Public Dining Room
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Elegant & Relaxed
Tucked away in Balmoral, Public Dining Room offers an intimate waterfront experience overlooking the tranquil Balmoral Baths. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame stunning Middle Harbour views, creating the perfect backdrop for a romantic celebration. This Valentine’s Day, they’re offering both lunch and dinner options to suit different preferences.
Valentine’s Day Options:
- Lunch: À la carte menu
- Dinner: Three-course choice set menu
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $135 per person (dinner set menu)
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: 02 9968 4880
Insider Tip: Time your booking with sunset for particularly magical views across the harbour.
Valentine’s Day Cruising
Price Range: $$-$$$$ | Best for: Moving views and memorable moments
If you are seeking something beyond traditional restaurant dining, Sydney’s harbour cruises offer a unique Valentine’s experience. Watch the city lights sparkle across the water as you drift past iconic landmarks, enjoying both the cuisine and the ever-changing views. Here are our tried-and-tested picks:
Captain Cook Gold Dinner
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Polished & Premium
The fanciest floating feast in town, Captain Cook’s Gold Dinner nails the balance between proper restaurant-quality food and sightseeing. Their kitchen somehow manages to plate up restaurant-quality dishes while bobbing around the harbour – no small feat!
Take to the water for a romantic dinner as the sun sets and Sydney sparkles in the evening lights. Captain Cook has four Valentine dining cruising options this year.
Cost: Price: $279 pp View the menu or make a booking
Valentine’s Starlight Dinner
Same boat but with a 4 course à la carte menu complimented by an optional additional menu of glass of premium champagne and finishing the night with a cocktail and chocolate dipped strawberries.
Cost: Price l $145pp View the menu or make a booking
Valentine’s Day Sunset Premium Dinner
This early dinner cruise will allow you to enjoy Sydney’s golden hour, a perfect time to capture sunset the harbour 4-course a la carte menu including premium beef.
They are also offering a 3 course 2 hour lunch option for $115
Cost: $125pp l When: 4.45pm-6.45pm
Valentine’s Day City Dining
Looking for somewhere special in the heart of Sydney? These city venues offer everything from hidden speakeasies to rooftop views. Perfect for combining dinner with a show or late-night exploring.
Sailmaker at Hyatt Regency
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Sophisticated Hotel Dining
The Hyatt Regency Sydney offers multiple ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day, with their signature restaurant Sailmaker taking centre stage for romantic dining. Their elevated three-course seafood dinner showcases local produce in an elegant harbourside setting.
Insider Tip: Combine dinner at Sailmaker with pre-dinner drinks at Zephyr Sky Bar for sunset harbour views.
When: Friday 14 February, 6:00pm-9:30pm
Cost: $110 per person ($165 with wine pairing)
Also at Hyatt Regency: From 10-14 February, enjoy exclusive Valentine’s cocktails at Zephyr Sky Bar (rooftop views), Lobby Lounge (elegant ambiance), or Jackalberry Restaurant & Bar (creative mixology).
Mode Kitchen & Bar
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Vintage Glamour
Step back in time this Valentine’s Day at Four Seasons’ Mode Kitchen & Bar, where classic romance meets modern cuisine. Their ‘Valentine’s Day Dine & Dance’ event pairs a three-course menu featuring Sydney rock oysters, lobster, and wagyu beef with post-dinner salsa dancing and live music.
Insider Tip: Choose the later seating to make the most of the dance floor and evening entertainment.
When: Friday 14 February 2025, Seatings: 5:30pm-7:30pm or 7:45pm-9:45pm
Location: Four Seasons Hotel Sydney, 199 George Street
Cost: $180 per person
Cardea
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Sultry Speakeasy
Hidden away in Barangaroo, Cardea transforms into a romantic cabaret for Valentine’s Day 2025. Their “Lovers Day Cabaret” combines sultry burlesque performances with an indulgent eight-course degustation featuring seafood delicacies and romantic desserts, creating an unforgettable evening of dining and entertainment.
When: Friday 14 February, from 7:30pm
Where: Shop 2 T3.01, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
Cost: From $50 to $149 (plus booking fee) l View the menu or book here
Bottega Coco
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Modern Italian Chic
For a slice of Milan to Sydney, head to Bottega Coco for their special Valentine’s Day celebration. Their premium menu features Italian classics with a luxurious twist, from Sydney rock oysters with mandarin dressing to lobster ravioli and duck breast, culminating in their signature “Velvet Heart” dessert.
Insider Tip: Start your evening with an aperitivo at their marble bar – their Negroni list is impressive.
When: Friday 14 February, 2025
Cost: $120 per person
View the menu and make a booking
Chophouse
For Valentine’s Day 2025, Chophouse invites couples to “Love Meat Tender” – a special four-course celebration showcasing Australia’s finest meat, seafood and produce.
Their soaring ceiling and wine wall create an impressive backdrop for a romantic evening, complete with expert sommelier guidance for the perfect wine pairing.
What’s Included:
- Four-course menu
- Welcome drink on arrival
- Expert sommelier service
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $160 per person
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: 02 9231 5516
Above 319 at Vibe Hotel
Price: $$$-$$$$ | Atmosphere: Urban oasis
This Valentine’s Day, Vibe Hotel Darling Harbour offers two distinct ways to celebrate: an intimate poolside cabana experience or a lively rooftop soirée. Their Level 14 location provides spectacular skyline views and a sophisticated setting for romance.
Valentine’s Options:
Poolside Cabana Experience
- Private cushioned cabana overlooking pool
- Welcome cocktail and bottle of champagne
- Seafood grazing platter
- Pool access
Rooftop Valentine’s Party
- Three-hour beverage package
- Canapés and welcome cocktail
- Live music
Insider Tip: The poolside cabanas offer the most intimate experience, perfect for catching the sunset over Darling Harbour.
Location: Level 14, 319-325 Sussex Street, Sydney 5:30pm – 9pm
Cost: Cabanas $300 pp, Party $85 pp.
Booking: Book online or call (02) 9361 8400
Shaffa
Spend Valentine’s Day in Shaffa’s stunning indoor courtyard. With soaring glass ceiling, exposed sandstone and stained-glass windows this is a lovely space to sit back and watch the chefs create your dinner in the open kitchen, which almost feels like a stage.
Shaffa serve what I think is Sydney’s best hummus, delicious eggplant labneh and house made focaccia. A combination that caused me to fall love with Shaffa and why I tell everyone I know to go there soon!
End the night with a decadent dessert and a satisfied smile on your face. The make fantastic cocktails and equally tasty mocktails for anyone doing Feb Fast.
Cost: $89pp for regular dinner menu – Valentine’s Pricing not yet confirmed.
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: 0451 810 480
ESQ Bar and DIning
Treat you and your loved one to an evening of romance at ESQ this Valentine’s Day. Enjoy some smooth live jazz and a glass of bubbles on arrival, followed by a curated three course menu by Chef Guillaume Dubois. Make this a Valentine’s to remember!
Cost: $125pp Dinner with a glass of bubbles upon arrival
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: +61 2 8023 7609
Infinity at Sydney Tower
Price: $$$$ | Atmosphere: Sky-High Sophistication
Celebrate Valentine’s Day among the stars at Sydney’s most elevated dining room, where panoramic city views create an unforgettable backdrop for romance. Their special Valentine’s celebration combines fine dining with live jazz for a truly memorable evening.
What’s Included:
- Take-home rose and handcrafted truffles per couple
- Specially curated set menu
- Glass of Louis Roederer Champagne on arrival
- Live jazz entertainment
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $250 per person (window seating $275)
View the menu or make a booking
Check out more Darling Harbour Dining ideas here
Valentine’s Day in the east
Three Blue Ducks
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Refined Casual
The Ducks team brings their signature paddock-to-plate philosophy to Valentine’s Day with a thoughtfully crafted four-course menu. Their celebration pairs innovative Australian cuisine with warm, relaxed hospitality.
Enjoy a welcome sparkling wine or beer on arrival.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Where: 1/85 Dunning Ave, Rosebery
Cost: $95pp l Booking: Essential
Chiswick
Share a romantic moment in Chiswick’s serene garden setting, where plant-to-plate dining takes centre stage. Their Valentine’s celebration showcases seasonal produce grown in their own kitchen garden, creating an intimate dining experience overlooking the peaceful Chiswick lawn.
What’s Included:
- Welcome glass of bubbles
- Four-course special Valentine’s menu
- Garden-fresh seasonal produce
Insider Tip: Request garden-view seating to enjoy the sunset over the kitchen gardens.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $175 l View the menu or make a booking | Phone: 02 8388 8688
Bistro George
Price: $$ | Atmosphere: European Elegance
This one-hatted restaurant near Circular Quay brings European flair to Valentine’s Day celebrations. Head Chef Steven Sinclair’s specially curated menu showcases fresh local produce with continental sophistication.
Enjoy a three course meal with a welcome glass of bubbles. Wine pairings are also available.
Insider Tip: Request a table in the main dining room for the full bistro experience.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Where: Sydney CBD, near Circular Quay
Cost: $99 per person l Booking: Call 8027 9997
Valentine’s Day in the North
Depot & Buckle
Price: $$ | Atmosphere: Industrial Chic
Can’t decide between craft beer and cocktails? This Artarmon duo offers both under one roof. Depot brings the brewery vibes with house-brewed beers and casual dining, while Buckle adds sophistication with its botanical-inspired cocktails and lush interior.
What’s Included:
- Choice of two distinct venues
- House-brewed beers and distilled gin
- Casual dining options
Insider Tip: Start at Depot for beers and end at Buckle for nightcap cocktails.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Location: Shop G000/1 Frederick St, Artarmon
Booking: bucklecd.au or depot.beer
Pilu at Freshwater
Overlooking Freshwater Beach, Pilu offers a sophisticated Valentine’s celebration combining refined Italian cuisine with stunning ocean views. Their carefully crafted four-course menu showcases both seafood and land specialties, from South Australian prawns to lamb backstrap.
Valentine’s Menu Highlights:
- South Australian prawns with tomberry tomatoes
- Scallop ravioli with roe butter
- Choice of snapper or lamb backstrap
- Milk chocolate mousse with raspberry & rose
Insider Tip: Request an early seating to catch the sunset over Freshwater Beach before your meal.
When: Friday 14 February 2025 – Available Times: 5:45pm, 6:15pm, 8:15pm and 8:45pm
Cost: $180 per person
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: 02 9938 3331
Valentine’s Day in the West and Inner West
Casa Esquina
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Romantic Latin Charm
This Balmain hotspot transforms into Casa de Flores for Valentine’s Day, offering an elegant fusion of South American flavors and romantic florals. Their five-course menu showcases sophisticated Argentinian-inspired dishes in a beautifully decorated setting.
What’s Included:
- Welcome Elderflower & Strawberry Sangria
- Five-course menu featuring Kiwami Full Blood 9+ Skirt
- Take-home mini bouquet
- Optional Casa de Flores cocktail menu
Insider Tip: Request terrace seating for alfresco dining under the stars, and arrive early to snap photos at the flower wall.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $140 per person
Location: 79 Elliott Street, Balmain l Booking: casaesquina.au
The Fenwick
Price: $$$ | Atmosphere: Harbour Heritage
Perched on the waterfront at Balmain East, The Fenwick offers breathtaking views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge as your Valentine’s Day backdrop. Choose between a relaxed à la carte lunch or an intimate four-course dinner celebration.
Valentine’s Day Options:
- Lunch: À la carte menu
- Dinner: Four-course set menu with sides
Optional Upgrade:
- Two glasses of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial
- Four oysters to share on arrival
- $79 additional per couple
Group Offer: Complimentary bottle of Moët & Chandon for tables of 4+ dinner guests
Insider Tip: Arrive before sunset to catch the golden hour over the bridge.
When: Friday 14 February 2025
Cost: $159 per person (dinner)
Location: 2-8 Weston Street, Balmain East
View the menu or Book online or Phone: (02) 9159 4700
Valentine’s Day in the South
Lugarno Seafood
Seafood by the water is a sure winner for Valentine’s Day and Lugarno Seafood has seen more than a few Valentine Day proposals in the past 25 years. If your partner is not a seafood lover, the menu also features beef, veal and chicken.
Cost: Al la carte menu as below
View the menu | Make a booking | Phone: 02 9119 1809
Jensens at Kareela
Book in for a decadent 3-course set menu at the Shire’s much loved Jensens. Enjoy barbeque king prawns, wagyu beef or crispy skin snapper. BYO is allowed which is a budget saver!
Cost: Price: $130
When: 5pm – 9pm Friday 14th Feb.
View the menu or make a booking | Phone: 02 9528 8433
Are there any budget-friendly options in Sydney?
It’s hard to go past a picnic – put together all your partner’s favourite treats, and head to one of the city’s best picnic spots for a romantic dinner alfresco.
Grab some heart shaped Bagels from Brooklyn Bagel Boys. You can pick them up in Marrickville or Surry Hills
Or for some extra fun, book a secret picnic
How about vegan Valentine’s Day options?
Several menus have vegetarian options,including Albi in Cronulla and Bennelong, but Glebe’s Salt and Palm is also worth considering.
Check out some more romance inspired ideas
- Our fun list of places to propose in Sydney
- Ideas for romantic fun in Sydney
- Hotels with water views
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
Have questions about things to see and do in Sydney?
Head over and join our Facebook Group and we will be happy to help.
