The Sydney Cafe

- Sydney NSW 2000

For those in New South Wales looking for a dining and cafe experience that perfectly captures the beauty and cosmopolitan spirit of the Harbour City, **Cafe Sydney** at Customs House is an iconic and unforgettable destination. Situated atop the majestic, heritage-listed Customs House, this venue offers more than just a meal or a coffee; it provides a spectacular, sweeping backdrop of Sydney Harbour, encompassing the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the sparkling Circular Quay below. This unparalleled location has cemented its reputation over the last 25 years as one of the city's most prized locations.

While the name suggests a simple 'cafe,' the reality is an upscale, contemporary Australian restaurant and bar with a sophisticated cafe service that operates in a casual yet elegant atmosphere. The overall feel is one of being both "casual" and "upscale," making it perfect for both a quick, excellent coffee and a longer, more luxurious lunch. The menu, led by an executive chef, is committed to sourcing the freshest seasonal produce and finest ingredients nationwide, delivering a quality, ever-evolving contemporary menu that showcases the best of Australia. Patrons can indulge in the full seasonal à la carte menu, which features classic dishes with global flavours, or simply enjoy the famed **Great coffee** and a **Quick bite** during their visit. The venue also features a dynamic dessert menu crafted by a Head of Pastry, and a cleverly curated cocktail list, ensuring all aspects of the modern dining experience are covered.

The atmosphere is vibrant, benefiting hugely from the sensational views, particularly from the outdoor dining terrace. Customer reviews often highlight the 'spectacular' view and the quality of the overall experience. While one historical or user-submitted review noted an unusual smell, the consistent high praise for the food, service, and atmosphere in official and long-standing reviews affirms its status as a premier Sydney dining location. It is a venue well-suited for various occasions, from a significant business lunch to a carefree catch-up with friends and family, and it is a popular spot for **Solo dining** thanks to its accessible setting.

Cafe Sydney boasts a prime, high-profile location at **Level 5, Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay NSW 2000, Australia**. Perched on the fifth floor of the Customs House building, it offers commanding panoramic views, directly opposite the ferries and public transport hubs of Circular Quay.

The location is exceptionally accessible for anyone traveling from across New South Wales. It sits right next to the Circular Quay train station, ferry terminal, and bus interchange, making it reachable with minimal effort. Access to the venue is via the main Customs House entrance on the ground floor. The venue is fully equipped to welcome all guests, providing a **Wheelchair accessible entrance** from the ground level and ensuring full access via lifts. Its central location makes it an ideal meeting point for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the iconic sights of Sydney Harbour while dining. **Paid street parking** is generally unavailable in this busy area, but paid parking stations are accessible nearby.

Cafe Sydney offers a refined set of services tailored to a sophisticated clientele in a major CBD location.

Services offered at Cafe Sydney include:

• **Dine-in and Takeout:** Providing full-service dining in a stunning environment, as well as **Takeout** options for coffee and lighter fare.
• **Reservations:** The venue highly recommends and **Accepts reservations**, with booking policies detailed for small and large groups, including fixed-price menus for groups of 10-11 guests.
• **Private Dining:** Dedicated **Private dining room** facilities are available, offering one of the most prized locations with unrivalled views for corporate or intimate celebrations.
• **Dining Service:** Serving **Lunch** and **Dessert** daily, with dinner service extending until late, Monday to Saturday. Sunday lunch is a dedicated three-course fixed price menu.
• **Bar Service:** Featuring a full bar onsite with a focus on a signature **Cocktail** list, extensive **Wine** offerings, and other **Alcohol** and spirits.
• **Payment Options:** Accepting modern payment methods including Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, though it is noted that a surcharge applies to credit card payments.

The venue’s reputation is built upon its extraordinary setting and high-quality product delivery.

Key features and highlights include:

• **Spectacular Sydney Harbour Views:** Unrivalled, sweeping panoramic views of the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Circular Quay from its position atop Customs House.
• **Contemporary Australian Menu:** Led by an executive chef, the menu is focused on seasonal, locally sourced Australian produce, offering an ever-evolving à la carte and dessert selection.
• **Exceptional Beverage Program:** Known for a **Great coffee** service and a curated bar selection, including classic and contemporary cocktails inspired by seasonal ingredients.
• **Signature Sunday Lunch:** A dedicated three-course fixed-price menu available every Sunday, making the next Sunday lunch 'extra special'.
• **Upscale Casual Atmosphere:** Balancing a relaxed, **Casual** setting with an underlying sense of **Upscale** sophistication and elegance, suitable for any occasion.
• **Cultural Partnership:** Proudly supporting Sydney's iconic cultural institutions such as the Sydney Opera House and the Museum of Contemporary Art.

For residents in New South Wales planning a visit or needing to make a booking, the contact information is:

**Address:** 5th Floor, Customs House, 31 Alfred Street, Circular Quay NSW 2000, Australia

**Phone:** (02) 9251 8683 or +61 2 9251 8683

**Email:** reservations@cafesydney.com

Due to the venue's popularity, especially for evening dining and Sunday lunch, contacting them directly for a reservation is highly recommended. The restaurant observes a smart dress code.

Cafe Sydney is the definitive choice for New South Wales patrons seeking a dining experience that is truly reflective of Sydney’s global status. You should choose this venue primarily for the **unmatched, iconic harbour views**—it is one of the best locations in the city to dine while overlooking the Opera House and the Bridge. The name 'cafe' belies its true nature as a sophisticated destination for **contemporary Australian cuisine** that rigorously focuses on fresh, high-quality, seasonal ingredients.

Whether you are looking for a reliable spot for a high-quality **Lunch** or a memorable dining experience for an anniversary, the combination of professional service, acclaimed food, and the stunning visual backdrop provides exceptional value. For those who simply need a quick pick-me-up in a beautiful setting, the service is equally ready to provide a **Quick bite** and what is consistently rated as **Great coffee**, ensuring this venue remains an essential part of the Sydney dining landscape.

The Sydney Cafe

Sydney NSW 2000, Australia