Quiet Restaurants in Sydney

by Broadsheet Editors

Updated 4 months ago

Going out to a restaurant is about more than just the food and service. This guide is for the times when company and conversation are the most important part of the meal. These places have the sorts of dining rooms where you don’t have to strain your voice to be heard, where the background music isn’t actually foreground music and you don’t have to lean in to hear what someone’s trying to say to you. But just because they’re quieter than average doesn’t mean they’re compromising on atmosphere.

These are some of the best places to talk (and eat) in Sydney. They’re worth keeping in mind next time the parents are in town, or you want to settle in with someone for a well-overdue catch-up.

The Gardens By Lotus
Restaurant
Visit the Chinese Garden of Friendship for artisan tea and food by an acclaimed Singaporean-Chinese chef. And the most beautiful place in Sydney to eat dumplings.
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Bondi Trattoria
Cafe
The soft pastels here complement the ocean outside and dark wood finishes make the restaurant feel like a provincial home. Thanks to the size of the dining room, it's hard for this place to get too noisy.
Fred’s
Restaurant
The space is styled like a farm kitchen, with a bright, wood-dominated aesthetic reminiscent of a stylish French country retreat. The mood here is always calm and conversation flows easily.
Tetsuya’s
Restaurant
Set in a tranquil Japanese house a step back from the chug of Kent Street, the quiet dining room overlooks a peaceful, Japanese-style garden and bubbling pond.
Glebe Point Diner
Cafe
A relaxed bistro space of black-and-white striped walls, with welcome splashes of vivid lime green, Glebe Point Diner lends itself equally to lingering lunches (try to nab one of the veranda tables) and multi-course dinners.
Rockpool Bar & Grill
Restaurant
When it comes to must-do Sydney food experiences, Neil Perry’s Rockpool Bar & Grill is right up there. From its opulent, green-marbled, art deco interior to the choreographed service from floor staff.
Aria
Restaurant
The interior is classic with white tablecloths, plush chairs and subtle lighting, and tables are generously spaced, giving the room a luxurious feel.