A solid lunchtime dining option in the CBD, with an alfresco plant-filled terrace and a whopping 900-kilogram wood grill.

The Mary's Group snagged the old Basement space in Circular Quay and continued its legacy as an inner-city hub for live music. They've also thrown in a burger joint with the Mary's signatures: 'burgs, fried chicken and natural vino.

From its opulent, art deco interior to the theatrical service from floor staff, Rockpool remains one of Sydney’s premiere special occasion restaurants. It champions sustainable, grass-fed beef from Blackmore Wagyu and Cape Grim, on a menu abound with raw seafood, pasta and uncomplicated sides. The experience is enhanced by a wine list to rival any in the country.

A modern Japanese restaurant where ’90s grunge and rock reigns supreme.

Apart from sides, there's only one thing on this menu: T-bone steaks, sold by weight.

Reviving French splendour in an old-fashioned setting.

Moody jazz, heavy wooden beams and a bank of barbeque ducks in the old Tank nightclub space. A modern Shanghai-style dumpling den from Dan Hong and Merivale.

A specialist in the reliable teishoku, a set meal commonly cooked at home in Japan that involves rice, miso soup, a main dish and two smaller dishes.

A dedicated oyster bar sets this New York-inspired boozer from other CBD pubs, where freshly shucked molluscs are served in various guises – from Kilpatrick to deep-fried. The seafood-focused brasserie deals in sterling Aussie produce, and is backed up plenty of sparkling wine and craft beer.

This is the show-stopping star of Matt Moran’s culinary empire. The artfully-plated dishes warrant the lofty price-tags, but those generous harbour views do a lot to offset the sting. This is one of Sydney’s great try-before-you-die restaurants – a pillar of modern Australian dining.

Since 1921, stunning views of the Harbour Bridge have attracted drinkers to this pub.

Sit under a lush green wall, cocktail in hand.

The liberation of Paris is the theme behind this polished cocktail bar from the team behind The Lobo. Settle into sophisticated surrounds for rum and rye Old Fashioneds and French-influenced dishes with modern Australian flair.

Burgers before the ballet. Why not?

Travel to another time at this jazzy, prohibition-themed bar. A tome-like list of spirits informs the cocktails here, mixed by a team of sharply-dressed bartenders who know their craft inside and out. To eat, it's European-influenced snacks served till late.

A modern Mexican diner where the Margaritas come several ways and the guacamole gets smashed right at your table. Come for street-style eats and share plates made with a market-to-table ethos, tequila masterclasses and more.

Bowery Lane is a sleek CBD spot offering shareable feasts.