An Insider's Guide to Darling Harbour

THE PORT | HARBOURSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE, 2-10 DARLING DRIVE

The perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day exploring, The Port is a top spot for a share plate and a cocktail. Watch the world go by with good food and good company at this refined eatery that’s all about bringing people together. 

Sitting on the terrace at the newly renovated Café Del Mar and admiring the stunning vista of Darling Harbour is a must do for those wanting to experience Sydney’s best bits. Order from the extensive Mediterranean menu whilst looking out over the water, or sit with a cocktail in hand on a Sunday afternoon and listen to live music from local artists. 

COLLECTOR STORE | STORE 13.T2, SHIPWRIGHT WALK

Collector Store has great men’s and women’s wear, jewellery and homewares from the best brands in the business. Pick up your Tom Dixon candles, Robert Gordon ceramics or a fabulous new outfit from a selection of top designers. Great for gifts, this store is a local hot spot. 

BOURKE STREET BAKERY | 4/23 BARANGAROO AVENUE

If you’re looking for some sweet treats to fuel all your Sydney activities, Bourke Street Bakery has the answers. From sweet pastries to savoury rolls, cookies and tarts to sliders and homemade drinks – your perfect picnic awaits. 

DEVON CAFE | SHOP 19, 200 BARANGAROO AVENUE

Just reading the menu from the Devon Café makes your mouth water. Think all the greatest breakfast and lunch combos served with elegance in a welcoming yet relaxed café environment, and you’re there. Grab brekkie before day tripping on the ferry, heading for a shopping spree with friends, or wandering along the many great Sydney walking tracks. 

From morning till night, you’ll never be thirsty in Australia’s largest city. Check out our guide to the top breweries, distilleries and coffee roasters in Sydney.

GROWERS MARKET | PYRMONT BAY PARK, PIRRAMA ROAD

Just past Harbour-side in Pyrmont, not 5 minutes from Darling Harbour, is Pyrmont Growers Market. Pick up organic meats for the barbeque, fresh breads, and handmade chocolates for the ultimate picnic that will see you through the day. Every 4th Saturday of the month from 7:30am until noon, this is a melting post of deliciousness that attracts both locals and visitors. If you’re visiting Sydney at the right time, this market should be added to your list of things to do in Darling Harbour.

THE STAR | 80 PYRMONT STREET

Catch a show with your beau, hit up the spa with friends, have a flutter on the roulette table and sample all the great dining options at The Star – here are three of our favourites:

1. Black Bar and Grill: The finest steakhouse in Australia is a bold claim, but Black Bar and Grill has earnt it. Stop here for seasonal produce, creative cocktails and a monumental champagne lunch offer every weekend. 

2. Sokyo: Japanese flavour meets the Sydney vibe at Sokyo. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s always a good time to visit Sokyo for Japanese fusion at its best.

3. Pizzaperta: A traditional pizzeria serving up delicious wood fired pizza with all your favourite toppings. Eat in or grab a takeaway and head to the waterfront to watch Sydney in all its magnificence. 

THE TERNARY | NOVOTEL SYDNEY ON DARLING HARVOUR, 100 MURRAY ST

Combining a Grill Kitchen, Asian Kitchen and Wine Bar, The Ternary combines cultures and cuisines that capture the senses. With a lavish menu, these guys know how to how to eat, drink and play. Located under your Darling Harbour accommodation, there’s no reason not to visit The Ternary.

Whilst staying in the Darling Harbour area, you can’t miss a thorough exploration of Chinatown. Soak up the vibes and grab a bite to eat with this handy guide to Sydney’s Chinatown.

ST. FROCK | 18 UNION STREET

If you’re out with the girls and need a shopping fix, skip the high street brands and head on over to St. Frock. Sourcing the best Aussie and international style trends at great price points, this is an independent boutique where you’ll be made to feel like part of the family.

Discover what makes this iconic precinct tick as you delight in all the best eateries and activities in Sydney. Hotels in Darling Harbour put all this within a short stroll, so you can take it in at your own pace. Staying longer and need more eatery ideas? This guide to the best affordable hatted restaurants in Sydney has it covered.