Overview
Western Sydney's dining scene is decidedly more consistent than the region's National Rugby League Teams — where the Penrith Panthers sit at the top of the ladder, and Parramatta is struggling to avoid the wooden spoon — and is certainly worth celebrating. Regularly racking up points for churning out affordable and generally excellent fare, here are our picks of the best eateries to celebrate a win in Western Sydney.
Volcanos Steakhouse
With locations in Parramatta, Blacktown, Wetherill Park and Bankstown, Volcanos Steakhouse is a carnivore's paradise. The steakhouse is known for its succulent dry-aged steaks, ribs and Wagyu cuts sourced from Aussie farmers, which you can enjoy with a range of mocktails like the tangy watermelon mojito.
With four venues to choose from, no matter where your crew is coming from, there's an accessible venue suitable for all your family celebrations, team outings and social gatherings. From marbled steaks that melt in your mouth to tender ribs that fall off the bone, each dish is a moreish delight. Plus, for diners sticking to a halal-certified diet, don't (meat) sweat — Volcanos Steakhouse has got you.
Chan Kun Kee
While Cabramatta is not exactly short on eateries churning out excellent Asian fare, this hidden gem's commitment to traditional Cantonese cuisine makes it one to seek out. From aromatic soups that warm the soul to delicate dumplings perfect for a hangover-healing yum cha brunch, when it comes to classic Cantonese tastes bursting with flavour, Chan Kun Kee understood the assignment of feeding a large crowd for a celebration.
Abhi's Indian Restaurant and Chatkazz
If your family celebration calls for a taste of India in Western Sydney, look no further than Little Bombay, officially known as Harris Park. Here, along the bustling streets lined with the intoxicating aromas of Indian spices and the pulsating energy of South Asian culture, lies a multitude of local "Desi" delights, including Abhi's Indian Restaurant and Chatkazz. Both offer a vibrant ambience and diverse menu featuring aromatic curries, fluffy naan bread and tantalising street food snacks.
Fratelli Pulcinella
It may have outgrown its original location (the backyard of a local home) and moved to a bigger store. But, Fratelli Pulcinella has lost none of the authenticity that quickly earned its cult status among locals when it first opened. While the Matesina (Porcini) pizza — made with mushroom truffle pesto, porcini mushrooms, rosemary, provolone smoked cheese and mozzarella — is a fan favourite, the combination of traditional woodfired ovens and fresh, quality ingredients ensures each piece of Naples-inspired pie is a mouth-watering ode to La Dolce Vita. And what party isn't better with pizza?
Oribu
Nestled in the heart of Parramatta's main thoroughfare, Church Street, Oribu is a fine-dining Japanese eatery with a former Nobu chef at the helm. From sushi rolls with a twist to a seven-course chef's tasting menu and killer cocktails, Oribu offers innovative dishes that give Crown Barranagroo vibes — minus the 45-hour trek down Parramatta Road to get there. It's the perfect location for intimate celebrations like anniversaries and dates.
Baba Ghanouj Parramatta
Prepare to be whisked away on a culinary journey through the Middle East at Baba Ghanouj. Alongside bowls of tangy tabouli, crispy fried falafel patties and the smoky eggplant dip that lends the restaurant its name, every experience here honours the region's famed hospitality. With Arabic tunes filling the air, iconic murals adorning the walls, and the scent of rosewater wafting through the kitchen, Baba Ghanouj offers not just a meal but an experience that will transport you to the vibrant streets of Beirut and beyond for your celebratory shindig.
Poppi Tino
Almafi Coast, but make it Aussie. Tucked away in Kingswood (around the corner from Penrith), Poppi Tino is a cosy trattoria serving up hearty Italian fare. From their classic spaghetti chill prawn pasta to a mouth-watering risotto pollo — and a set menu that's perfect for bigger groups — each dish is so good that your only dilemma will be which pair of stretch pants to wear to accommodate the inevitable carb-baby.
Lady Banks Rooftop
For a celebration locale with a touch of elegance and sophistication, head to Lady Banks Rooftop in Bankstown. Its impressive menu is packed with contemporary Mediterranean-inspired share plates (including chilli prawn woodfired bread and ouzo salmon) that are so brilliant the closest potential challenge to them would be the breathtaking vistas on offer. Whether you're there to sip cocktails, savour a meal or soak in the sweeping views across Sydney, Lady Banks Rooftop provides the perfect setting for a memorable celebration.
Bartega Belmore
While this 'burb may best be known as the Home of the Bulldogs, this artisanal cocktail bar, tucked in the heart of Canterbury Leagues Club, delivers intimate vibes, innovative share plates (the wagyu bresaola with pickled vegetables, grapefruit, honey ricotta, pistachio soil and shiso oil is brilliant) and a very extensive wine list. Signature cocktails include the aptly named Yellow Roses — which gets its signature golden hue from the addition of Safron Tanqueray and Campari, as well as elderflower liqueur, lavender syrup and lemon. Perfect for celebrating your latest win with your mates or family.
If you have a reason to celebrate, head to Volcanos Steakhouse in Parramatta, Blacktown, Wetherill Park and Bankstown and enjoy premium steaks, succulent ribs, and epic burgers. Reserve your spot on the website.