Editor’s Note: I wrote this post way back in 2012 for a now-defunct website, but I recently found it in my archive and thought it might be a good time to share it. Upon review, only two places originally in this story have closed in the decade-plus period, so you know they’re worth the visit. Keep in mind that I was a broke backpacker on a budget and used a low-quality camera.
I lived in Sydney, Australia for a year and what I miss most about the land down under is the food. The city is diverse and you can get nearly any international cuisine if you know where to look. Here are my favorite dishes that you must try if you’re ever in the city.
Chat Thai, Chinatown
There is always a line outside of this Chinatown establishment and for good reason. Bring a group to Chat Thai to share a bunch of dishes family style. You can watch the chefs cook your food at the front of the restaurant while you wait.
Dish to Try: Dtom Saap, a hot and sour soup of braised pork ribs. Wash it down with a sweet Thai tea.
Harry’s Cafe de Wheels, Multiple Locations
The meat pie is the most quintessential dish you could eat on your visit to Australia and there is no better place to try it than in Woolloomooloo’s Harry’s Cafe de Wheels, a local institution popular with visiting celebrities.
Dish to Try: The Tiger, the classic meat pie topped with mashed potatoes, gravy and mushy peas.
Guzman y Gomez, Multiple Locations
I craved Mexican food within a month of being in Sydney and I eventually found Guzman y Gomez, a local chain, in Newtown for my fix. Their burritos are authentic and spicy enough for someone like me. They also offer quesadillas, tacos, nachos and salads. And yes, they have margaritas! The company has since expanded into Japan and Singapore, with US locations as well.
Dish to Try: Spicy Chicken Guerrero Burrito, enough spice to burn your eyebrows off.
Australian Heritage Hotel, The Rocks
If you’ve never had kangaroo on your pizza, Australian Heritage Hotel, a historic pub in The Rocks, is the place to make it happen. It’s one of the oldest bars in the city and has
Dish to Try: Half Pepper Kangaroo, half Saltwater Crocodile pizza, for the true Australian animal-eating experience.
Hart’s Pub, The Rocks
I only discovered Hart’s Pub on my last week in Sydney, so I didn’t have much time to indulge in the burgers and craft beer. The brews here are all made by the Rocks Brewing Company and are paired with each menu item.
Dish to Try: Cajun Croc Bites, fried crocodile with Cajun spices and a tangy dipping sauce.
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