When the clock strikes midday, Sydney is an undeniably good place to eat lunch. Whether you’re enjoying a break from work, meeting someone special on a date, or looking for a feed near your Ultimo accommodation, Sydney has a plethora of lunch spots to explore. From casual cafes and trendy bistros to upscale restaurants, there’s something for everyone, starting with these top must-try lunch spots in Sydney.
Ester
If you’re not sold on eating last night’s leftovers hunched over your desk, Ester is a great alternative for a Friday lunch. Located a short distance from Vulcan boutique hotel in Sydney, Ester is a local institution serving modern Australian cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients. However, the major drawcard of this Chippendale lunch spot is the wood-fire oven, lending a subtle smokiness to most meals on the menu.
Spice Alley
When on the hunt for an interesting lunch spot in Sydney, you can’t look past Spice Alley. Tucked away in a narrow laneway just a short stroll from your Ultimo accommodation, this bustling hawker-style eatery is where you’ll find a selection of different cuisines. From Malaysian satay to Vietnamese pho, Thai curries and Chinese dumplings, you’re bound to find an affordable meal that satisfies your wallet and your appetite.
Reuben Hills
When you know you have a long afternoon on the horizon, Reuben Hills is the Surry Hills cafe to prevent the 3:30 pm blues. Not only is Reuben Hills a warm and inviting space to perch for an hour, but the menu features specialty coffee roasted and brewed to perfection. If you ask us, a solid brew is the perfect side to an expertly crafted Reuben sandwich, especially when you can reach it within a half-hour walk from Vulcan Hotel.
Ragazzi
When pasta cravings are high, make a beeline for the Italian restaurant, Ragazzi, located about a 20-minute walk from Vulcan Hotel, your boutique hotel in Sydney. The standout lunch meal at Ragazzi is the ‘Cacio e Pepe’, a deceptively simple meal made with spaghetti, pecorino cheese and black pepper. It pairs excellently with a crisp Pinot Grigio and any day that ends in ’Y’.
Mappen
Nothing says top Sydney lunch spot like the simplicity of a Japanese noodle bar. Located in the heart of Sydney CBD, Mappen is a short walk from Vulcan Hotel, making it a convenient and affordable option for a midday meal. The menu offers a range of noodle dishes that can be personalised with toppings like tempura shrimp, teriyaki chicken and crispy pork belly. There are also other Japanese favourites like donburi bowls and sushi rolls for those concerned about noodle etiquette (read: slurping) during a business lunch.
Nomad
For a major upgrade from the traditional packed lunch, Nomad is a Surry Hills lunch spot heavily influenced by the Mediterranean. Meals are created using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients, ensuring they are always fresh and full of flavour. Depending on the size of your appetite, you’ll enjoy small plates, salads, sandwiches, or larger plates to share. Nomad is one Sydney lunch spot worthy of a special occasion.
Henry Lee’s
Henry Lee’s is a popular lunch spot in Sydney known for its tasty Asian-fusion menu and cool, relaxed vibe. Based in the trendy neighbourhood of Redfern, the cafe is 2.3 kilometres from Vulcan Hotel, making it easily reachable via car, taxi, or public transport. With its creative menu of small plates, noodles, and rice dishes, friendly service and hip decor, Henry Lee’s is a must-visit lunch spot for anyone chasing flavour on their lunch break.
Cafe Vulcan
Considered one of the best Ultimo cafes by locals, Cafe Vulcan provides a light and welcoming atmosphere suitable for breakfast with friends or family. Whether staying at the Vulcan boutique hotel in Sydney or not, the on-site cafe is a solid choice for a satisfying, fuss-free lunch. Then set a reminder to return for happy hour from 5-7 pm daily.
