Don’t be fooled by this gallery’s nondescript exterior: inside are works by Australia’s top talent, including Mitch Cairns and Simryn Gill.
This converted 1880 rail yard hosts Sydney’s most progressive theater and contemporary art performances. A highlight: “Playwriting Australia,” a series of plays by local writers.
Carve out an afternoon to explore the new wing of Sydney’s Museum of Contemporary Art.
A well-curated collection of modern Chinese art assembled by collector Judith Neilson, one of Australia’s richest women. We love artist Cang Xin’s 2007 sculptural series.
Swing by this high-end emporium for avant-garde and traditional Australian labels.
Looking to brighten up your wardrobe? Browse Alannah Hill’s colorful dresses fit for Katy Perry.
The place to go for whimsical art and furniture (think graffiti-covered chairs) by emerging regional designers.
An old house converted into a pastel-colored shop filled with Hay’s signature streamlined products: 1940’s-style ceramics, scented candles, and white enamel bakeware.
This butcher’s shop looks like Willy Wonka’s meat-minded counterpart, down to the cast-bronze sausage links that serve as the front-door handle. Don’t miss the house-made goodies to go.
Rooms at this hotel gem on Woolloomooloo Wharf are loft-style, with exposed beams and plush beds set against a chocolate-brown and aquamarine palette.
At this sexy, cutting-edge hotel on Darling Harbour, there’s black-and-red flecked wallpaper in the corridors, and the push of a button works your room’s blinds, TV, and air temperature.
From the sky-high atrium lobby to the clubby hotel bar and spacious outdoor pool, this classic hotel in the Rocks never disappoints.
The glass-walled Hilton tower, designed by architects Johnson Pilton Walker (the team behind the Opera House makeover), is a quick stroll from the main landmarks.
The city’s most coveted location, fronting the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. A $68 million renovation brought in floor-to-ceiling windows and amenities from cult perfumer Le Labo.
Chance a game on the 1940’s foosball table at this retro-style bar, fitted with leather booths and leopard-skin throws. On the menu: juicy chorizo-and-octopus skewers and chili-topped hot dogs.
The place to sample the city’s best coffee, Aussie-style: ask for a flawless flat white from the apron-clad barista strolling the floor—he’ll take your order on his iPad.
Meze-style dishes are the draw here—there’s four-cheese arancini (deep-fried rice balls) and baked duck-egg custards. Don’t miss the funky interiors, with paintings of centaurs on the walls.
Sydneysiders gather at El Loco’s colorful tables to munch on some of the city’s finest Mexican food, courtesy of renowned chef Dan Hong.
Unfussy modern food by bad-boy chef Matt Moran, including wood-roasted lamb from his family farm. Call at least two weeks ahead.
Text the number on the door—the bouncer will appear within minutes to whisk you to the top floor. Order a Lovegun (amaretto, Campari, and orange juice).
Mad-scientist-style cocktails are made using such ingredients as liquid nitrogen. Try the Martini of Tomorrow.
This cliffside restaurant is perfect for a relaxing Sunday lunch, where you feel like you’re sitting on the water.
You won’t go wrong by ordering delicious Singapore Slings with spring rolls and fresh dumplings at this Vietnamese tuck shop.
Chef Matt Moran’s (Chiswick) go-to bar for enjoying an afternoon pint in the peace and quiet.
This park is very family-oriented, with tennis courts and plenty of open space. There’s also a huge hill that’s great for running.
For an indulgent splurge, this is one of the most revered restaurants in Darlinghurst, with truffle pasta to die for.
This pizzeria in Darlinghurst serves up some of the city’s best pies. It’s great for takeout.
