Check out these hidden gems in the heart of Sydney's trendiest suburb.
There's a very good reason why Surry Hills has a reputation as a foodie's paradise. Morning, noon or night, there's a dizzying variety of eateries, bars and cafes to sample, catering to damn near every taste. Check out these hidden gems in the heart of Sydney's trendiest suburb.
To say Surry Hills has elevated brunch to an art form is an understatement. In fact, the density of top notch breakfast joints in the suburb has given rise to some innovate alternatives to the norm. Gratia, on the corner of Bourke and Albion, is Sydney's first "profit for purpose" cafe. They donate 100% of their profits to charity, so not only will you get a great meal, you'll also get a warm fuzzy feeling with it. The Reformatory Caffeine Lab is a must for coffee drinkers who take their java seriously. In addition to a range of special blends, filter and cold drip coffees, you can also switch it up with an Elixir, a new cold coffee-based slow brew beverage invented in Australia. Who needs YouTube videos of cats when you can get the real thing at the Catmosphere Cafe. Make a reservation to come hang out with some fantastic felines while you enjoy your first flat white of the day.
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There's plenty of fine dining to be found on the streets of Surry Hills, but for those who want great grub that's a little naughty, the suburb boasts some top shelf interpretations of your favourite guilty pleasures. The Chicken Institute offers some of the best fired chook in the city, in five mouth-watering varieties. Its Korean-fusion menu includes traditional staples like bibimbap and clever twists like kimchi poutine. Pizza lovers need look for further than Vacanza. This authentic wood fired pizzeria has a simple, unfussy menu featuring a small range of pizzas and salads made with grade-A ingredients. The good people at Chur Burger offer six variations - chicken, beef, pork, lamb, fish or veg - and each is a work of bloody genius. At just $10 each, these brilliant burgers are as kind to your wallet as they are to your tongue.
Some of the finest watering holes in Sydney are to be found in the 2010 postcode, including some brilliant gems off the beaten track. Button Bar's warm wooden interiors and mood setting lighting sets the tone for its vast menu of cocktails. It also boasts one of the city's most comprehensive whiskey offerings, including many from seldom seen Japanese blends. Just 24 wine lovers at a time can enjoy the superb selection of vino at 121BC. It's intimate feel, dusky lighting and delicious vintages make this wine bar the perfect rendezvous for a date. Taking its design cues from the lustrous glamour of old Hollywood, the beautiful subterranean bar at the Golden Age Cinema is a night spot fit for a matinee idol. Try one (or several) of their classic cocktail range; their Old Fashioneds are not to be missed.