6 Of Sydney’s Most Iconic Venues And Why You Should Visit In May

Scattered around Sydney, you’ll find some of the most iconic restaurants in the world (though we might be slightly biased). We have pristine waterfront eateries, architectural masterpieces and venues headed by award-winning chefs.

This May, some of Sydney's best best restaurants are taking part in American Express delicious. Month Out (AEDMO). Enrolled Amex Card Members can redeem the AEDMO Offer* at over 19,000 participating venues across Sydney.

Urban List has teamed up with American Express to round up the most iconic restaurants in Sydney that you need to tick off your bucket list this May. 

Pilu

On the beach, Moore Road, Freshwater

Pilu at Freshwater is iconic for more than just its beachfront setting and sweeping ocean views. For over 20 years, it’s been a Northern Beaches institution, where chef Giovanni Pilu has combined refined Sardinian-inspired cooking with premium Australian produce. The seasonal menu showcases locally-caught seafood, handmade pastas, and top-quality meat dishes, all elevated by sommelier-selected wine pairings from over 200 bottles.

Diners come here to mark life’s big moments, from wedding toasts and anniversary dinners to birthday surprises and celebratory long lunches—but you can equally enjoy an elevated dining experience sans special occasion. With polished service and a deeply personal approach to hospitality, Pilu is as memorable as the stunning view it overlooks.

Aria 

1 Macquarie Street, Sydney CBD

At this waterfront fine diner, you’ll have uninterrupted views of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from your table. And if that doesn’t bring the wow factor, Executive Chef Tom Gorringe leads the kitchen in collaboration with renowned Chef-Owner Matt Moran. 

The duo have masterfully curated multi-course menus celebrating local produce at its seasonal peak. Choose between a two-course pre-theatre selection, a three-course lunch and dinner menu, or a five- to eight-course degustation of Aria’s best. 

The extensive drinks list spotlights top-tier Australian and international winemaking, including top-shelf champagne, plus a handful of creative cocktails. Cheers to a special occasion, date night, or just because.

Catalina 

Lyne Park, New South Head Road, Rose Bay

Docked right on Sydney Harbour at Rose Bay, Catalina offers prime waterfront views and a sustainably sourced seafood-leaning menu. Family-owned and operated by the McMahons since 1994, this stellar venue is a long-standing icon of Sydney’s dining scene. 

The two- and three-course selection menus are updated daily to highlight the freshest NSW produce and locally caught seafood, with dishes taking a Mediterranean and Asian spin. 

Standouts include Black River caviar churros, yellow fin tuna and Abrolhos Island scallop crudo, roasted lamb rack, and Sydney rock lobster risotto. The cellar is just as impressive, boasting award-winning wines and champagne bottles worth popping regardless of the occasion. 

Osteria Di Russo & Russo

158 Enmore Road, Enmore

Osteria di Russo & Russo is a snug Italian restaurant in the heart of Enmore, decorated with wax-covered Chianti bottles and old-school flair. Owned by father and son duo Pino and Marc Russo, the restaurant is rooted in the family’s journey from Monte Di Procida in Naples, mirroring the broader wave of Italian migration that helped shape modern Australian dining culture. 

Reinterpreting the trattorias of the 1970s, the menu blends classic Italian flavours with modern techniques in decadent plates like Black Angus flank steak with black garlic and crab spaghetti drenched in sea urchin butter. Pair with a locally grown nebbiolo or trebbiano wine, and you’re in for a real treat. 

Ormeggio

D’Albora Marinas, Spit Road, Mosman

Michelin-trained chef Alessandro Pavoni opened Ormeggio at The Spit in 2009—a refined waterside restaurant that marked the beginning of his modern Italian dining empire. Now joined by iconic venues a’Mare, Postino Osteria, and Cibaria, Ormeggio still holds a special place as the OG. 

The a la carte menu shows off high-quality seafood with signature dishes like WA scampi crudo in a toasted brioche bun and pistachio cream, canneloni filled with seafood bolognese ragú, and an Ormeggio-style swordfish cotoletta. 

Or, opt for a group-friendly set menu enjoyed with cocktails and a breeze on the stylish marina deck or with a bottle of wine to share in the warm, coastal luxe dining room. 

Margaret

30–36 Bay Street, Double Bay

This effortlessly elevated Double Bay restaurant is a cornerstone of Sydney’s modern Australian dining scene. Named after renowned chef and owner Neil Perry’s late mother, Margaret reflects her thoughtfulness in every detail, from sourcing to service. 

Australia’s finest seasonal produce, fresh seafood, and wood-grilled dishes make up the menu, dotted with licks of luxury like a Black Pearl caviar tartlet, Eastern Rock Lobster, and a 1kg dry-aged ribeye. Dessert is a must, with over ten refined options to dive into after a long lunch or special celebratory dinner. 

For more of Sydney’s most iconic venues, check out the American Express delicious. Month Out program here. Plus, with an Amex Card, you can access exclusive perks—from points and Pre-Sale tickets to Amex Offers, lounges access and more. (Eligible Cards only, T&Cs apply). To find out more about what you could access as an Amex Card Member, click here.

*Offer must be saved to eligible Amex Card first. Enrolled Amex Card Members can redeem the Amex delicious. Month Out Offer at participating businesses by 01/06/2025. Exclusions apply, for full T&Cs visit amex.com.au/delicious to find out more.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by Amex and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Images: Pilu, Aria, Catalina, Osteria Di Russo & Russo, Ormeggio, Margaret on Instagram.