“Where should I go for lunch when I’m in Sydney?” has to be one of the most frequently asked questions as Good Food writer. It’s a tricky one: What’s your budget? Who are you going with? What’s the vibe? Here, you’ll find 10 budget-conscious options in and around central Sydney, including a few new openings you might not have tried. There’s something for almost every person in your life, from your mum who’s always wanted to try making cheese ( Norcino ) to your out-of-town bestie who insists on a killer view ( Kiln ).
Ama, Surry Hills Best for: Your budget-conscious colleague Low on price, big on flavour, Ama is the much-anticipated restaurant from the Ickle Coffee team. Owners (and sisters) Rowena and Kate Chansiri serve Thai-Chinese street food using family recipes in a small shopfront emulating the lantern-lit cosiness of their mother’s childhood home. The beef noodle soup is a must-order (“Damn good,” according to Sydney Morning Herald chief critic Terry Durack), and there’s Ickle Coffee for a midday pick-me-up (available as es yen, or Thai iced coffee, if you prefer).
Open daily for lunch 47 Cooper Street, Surry Hills, instagram.com/ama.surryhills Joji, CBD Best for: Your stylish, seen-it-all friend Joji is one of Sydney’s most exciting new restaurants, with a rooftop terrace overlooking the city, warmly illuminated wabi-sabi interiors and food from Esca executive chef Paul Farag (Aalia, Nour).
Small plates dominate the three-part menu, allowi.