Blessed by panoramic views of our famous ‘nuns in a scrum’ (Opera House) and coathanger (Harbour Bridge), Café Sydney has its nose ahead of most restaurants before you even look at the menu.

The stalwart has been feeding masses of the masses daily for 17 years and is a major culinary drawcard for those visiting our shores, and it’s not just because of the stunning setting. The service can be a bit rough around the edges, but the staff’s enthusiasm is assured. The wine list is a solid mix of reliable favourites and a few for the adventurous too, but make sure you start with a refreshing Italian sour.

Views aside, the food by experienced chef James Kidman is worth the visit alone. And the sheer volume hasn’t quelled his appetite for using quality ingredients, nor a deft touch while cooking. Rich slices of Blackmore’s wagyu bresaola stand out against seared tuna and a lick of Pedro Ximenez. Creamy king salmon belly tartare comes decorated in jewels of salmon roe, bug tail, shiso and dabs of lemon creme fraiche. An ensemble of capers, olives and tomato let pan-fried John Dory tell it’s story, while carrot puree, eggplant and sheep’s milk labne compliment the Moroccan merguez sausage and blushing lamb loin. Yuzu cream, blood orange jelly and macaroon crumbs signs off a meal, and venue, worth remembering.

Must eat dish: Cured King Salmon Belly tartare, bug tail, lemon crème fraiche, roe
Instagram: @cafesydney