Venture beyond Sydney's harbour and into the vibrant streets of Surry Hills, a neighbourhood that beats as the city's culinary heart. This trendy enclave is a must-visit for any food lover, boasting a dense concentration of acclaimed cafes, innovative restaurants, and iconic bakeries. It's a place where the brunch ritual is perfected, global flavours are celebrated, and sweet treats are legendary.

This guide will navigate you through the essential tastes of Surry Hills, from the comforting classics to the excitingly new. We'll explore the cafes that define the city's brunch culture, dive into authentic international cuisine, and finish with the desserts that have locals and visitors alike lining up for more. Prepare to discover why Surry Hills is a top destination for anyone looking to eat their way through Sydney. For more ideas on what to explore in the city, you can always visit the official Sydney tourism website.

Surry Hills is arguably the epicenter of Sydney's brunch scene, offering both iconic institutions and unique culinary twists.

• Bills: For a brunch that is guaranteed to be excellent, Bills is the go-to. This Surry Hills institution is so reliable that it's considered a 'blind pick'—a place you can choose without fear of disappointment. Famously recommended by celebrity Hannah Quinlivan, it's known for its consistent quality and has become a staple for both locals and visitors. Its location on Crown Street also makes it a perfect starting point for a day of exploring, perhaps followed by a trip to Bondi Beach.

• Tento: Tucked away on Hill Street, Tento offers a serene and sophisticated Japanese-inspired brunch experience. This gem has earned a spot on the prestigious SMH Good Food Guide's list of top cafes. The atmosphere is quiet and comfortable, especially on a rainy day. Must-try items include:

  • Salmon Ochazuke: A comforting dish of raw salmon over crispy rice with a hot broth poured over it.
  • Breakfast Setto: A beautifully presented set with cooked salmon, an onsen egg, and various small side dishes.
  • Black Sesame Latte: Praised as one of the best in Sydney, this drink is醇香 (rich and fragrant) without being overly sweet or heavy.

Surry Hills is also home to some of the city's best international cuisine. For those craving authentic Mexican flavours, Baja Cantina is an absolute must-visit. This spot has converted even those who were previously indifferent to Mexican food into devoted fans, with many diners returning for repeat visits. The menu is packed with standout dishes that are consistently delicious.

• Quesadilla: The Mexican cheese beef quesadilla is a showstopper and a must-order for every table.
• Fish Ceviche Tostadas: A refreshing and juicy dish of cured tuna and salmon on a crispy tostada.
• Fish Tacos: These are a crowd favourite, featuring a huge piece of beer-battered flathead fish that is perfectly crispy, served with black beans and garlic aioli.
• Elotes: The cheesy butter grilled corn is described as soul-touchingly good.

No culinary tour of Surry Hills would be complete without indulging in its famous baked goods and desserts.

• Bourke Street Bakery: This iconic bakery is a beloved local institution and a perfect spot for an afternoon pick-me-up. While it's known for a wide range of cakes and sweet treats, its savoury pies are legendary. The red wine beef pie is a particular highlight that you absolutely must try.

• Gelato Messina: To cap off your foodie adventure, a stop at the Surry Hills branch of Gelato Messina is non-negotiable. Considered by many to be the pinnacle of gelato in Australia, Messina is famous for its creative and ever-changing menu of special flavours alongside its classic offerings. The signature Hawaiian nut flavour is a great place to start for first-timers. It's the perfect sweet ending to your exploration of Surry Hills' vibrant food scene.