A Tour of the Strand Arcade

Overview

The Strand Arcade is so much a part of Sydney's streetscape that you kind of forget it's there. Put it back on your radar and set aside an evening to properly explore it this week. The building's spectacular Victorian architecture — including luxurious cedar staircases — are worthy of a stare, but there's much more to see. Slip into Italian restaurant Pendolino for a quiet glass of wine or a decadent Italian feast, then explore the wine and olive oil shops next door. After that, head to the third level to check out the tinted roof that keeps the place cool even on sweltering days, and, if you're cashed up, get yourself a pair of custom-made shoes.