Overview
This article is sponsored by our partners, the Sydney Festival.
The Sydney Festival crew knows better than anyone else that seeing the world's most amazing shows, losing yourself in monumental artworks and dancing into the wee hours can make for hungry and thirsty work. So they've partnered with a handpicked selection of the city's most popular and adventurous eateries to present 'Fast Festival Feasts'.
From January 9-26, you'll be able to sample gourmet cuisine at festival prices, including $30 and $55 two-course extravaganzas and specially designed a la carte menus. Some restaurants do require reservations, so we recommend making contact in advance to avoid disappointment.
Near Paradiso at Town Hall
Like the Village, Paradiso will be providing some light, hot catering of its own via the Terrace Bar. But if you want to rest your feet and stock up your energy before dancing the night away at one of the venue's free post-11.30pm music fests, try the Chef's Gallery where you'll score five Chinese Tapas (or Chapas) and a drink for $30, or the Glass Brasserie for a Luke Mangan-designed main and a beverage for the same amount.
Sydney Opera House and The Rocks
No fewer than 14 restaurants around the Sydney Opera House and The Rocks have struck deals with the festival folk. At Ananas Bar & Brasserie, indulge in two courses of One-Hatted French Mediterranean excellence for $55, including a glass of Marc Initale Brut. Equally adored by the critics, but Japanese in style, is the nearby Sake Restaurant & Bar, where you'll be able to exchange $55 for kingfish jalapeno and kombu trout paired with sake. Up on George Street, The Morrison Bar and Oyster Room will be selling a $30 special — duck fat fish and chips with mushy peas and homemade tartare sauce, accompanied by a glass of red or white.
The Star
Whether you're seeking out a feast to match your much-anticipated Dido & Aeneas experience or dropping by Darling Harbour to check out Merchants Store, you'll find a few options at The Star. Spend $55 at the undeniably elegant (even in a casino) Sokyo and receive two courses of your choice from the vast menu, or at the striking Balla for some Stefano Manfredi brilliance.
Top image: Dining Room at the Park Hyatt.