Isobel Whelan-Little got her hospo start washing dishes when she was 12. And she loved it. “I just kind of got hooked,” she tells Broadsheet. “I’ve been able to travel the world and meet wonderful people along the way – I think cooking for people is one of the greatest joys in life.”

The Sydney chef (whose CV impresses with London’s Brat, the now-closed LP’s Quality Meats and exec cheffing for Caterpillar Club and Alberto’s Lounge) is currently in the Kiln kitchen with newcomer (and Noma alum) Beau Clugston. The pair joins dessert king Andy Bowdy, making a strong trio for the post-Orr era of the Ace Hotel dining room.

Here, Whelan-Little shares her picks of the city, including a winning sandwich, a hassle-free special occasion restaurant and Sydney’s best post-beach burger.

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What’s your go-to if you want a quick takeaway dinner?
Anything sushi orientated.

What about lunch on the go?
I’m really into Small’s Deli at the moment, the Al Green, add ham and cheese.

What's your favourite spot for a drink and a snack in Sydney?
10 William, if you can get in – sitting at the bar and chatting with the team or the person next to you is wonderful. I think this is one place in Sydney that does solo diners so well and I love that.

Where is Sydney's best burger?
I’m a sucker for Ogalo! Nothing beats a morning beach situation followed by a salty-dog order of a double chicken Prego combo with a Sprite. Extra chilli, please! I think mostly ’cause it’s so nostalgic, and is just a good easy option for the beach.

Where’s the ideal spot for a date?
Cafe Paci: the staff are amazing, as is the food. The front-of-house really go out of their way to make you feel comfortable, and the service is considered without feeling overwhelming.

If it’s a special occasion, where are you booking?
Sean’s. It’s a set menu, which takes away any hassle, the views are amazing and the food is always consistent.

Where can you find the best coffee in Sydney?
Primary, followed by Punpun.

Do you have a go-to for a long lunch?
Bar Vincent. The menu is always changing so I kind of go with the flow and just let Andy and Sarah do their thing. It’s so nice in that space for a lunch that can easily roll into dinner.

Editor’s note, February 12, 2025: the Bar Copains team has bought Bar Vincent, their favourite restaurant in Sydney.

How about a meal with a big group of family or friends?
Bella Brutta, order everything.

What’s your bucket-list restaurant?
Le Doyenné, just outside of Paris. And I’m super desperate to go back to Donostia-San Sebastian and eat everywhere.

If you’re after something sweet, where are you heading and what are you getting?
AP Bread & Wine for the carrot cake. Although now I work with Andy Bowdy I’m really spoilt for sweet treats.

What's the best thing you cooked yourself recently?
I’m having a big issue with my kitchen at the moment – I hate it! And it’s been so incredibly hot, it’s hard to even eat! I did make a really great chopped salad the other day, loads of avocado and cucumbers just tossed together with brown rice and heaps of herbs: dill, coriander and mint.

Is there a hidden spot in Sydney that you think is great?
Grape Garden in Kings Cross is soooooooo good.

@isobelittle