With its postcard-perfect terrace houses, chic boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, and effortlessly cool cafés, Paddington stands out as one of Sydney’s most charming suburbs.
Nestled between Bondi Junction and the CBD, Paddo’s prime inner-city location makes it the perfect base for exploring Centennial Park, enjoying its vibrant café culture, and soaking up the neighbourhood’s warm community vibe. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re after fresh inspiration, here’s our ultimate guide to the best spots to eat, sip, shop, and play in Paddington.
Your guide to Paddington
Restaurants
Saint Peter
You know Saint Peter is in a league of its own thanks to its consistent presence on the prestigious World’s Best Restaurant list year after year. The Australian fish restaurant by Josh Niland is known for its “scale-to-tail” approach, using every part of the fish as well as innovative dry-aging techniques to serve up unique seafood charcuterie. Located within the Grand National Hotel in Paddo, Saint Peter promises an exceptional dining experience, where world-class seafood, refined flavours and impeccable hospitality come together beautifully.
Where: 161 Underwood St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open Monday-Wednesday: 5pm-11pm, Thursday-Sunday: 12pm-11pm.
Fred’s
One of Merivale’s top-rated restaurants, which recently ended up on Oprah’s Instagram feed thanks to her obsession with their bread, Fred’s is the pinnacle of farm-to-table dining. The open kitchen and rustic ambience feel like you’re dining in a friend’s upscale cottage, eating fresh, homemade dishes. Local produce and seasonal ingredients are key to Fred’s philosophy, best exemplified on their “Seasonal Shared Menu”, a rotating list that gives you a taste of the most in-season produce. Other menu highlights include their wood-fired ravioli, grass-fed Jack’s Creek rib-eye steak (800g) and vanilla pannacotta with peach jelly and poached peach.
Where: 380 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open Tuesday-Thursday: 4pm-11pm, Friday-Sunday: 12pm-11pm.
Barbetta
If you’re after authentic Italian cuisine in Sydney, Barbetta is a must-visit. Tucked away on a side road off Oxford Street, Barbetta promises to serve you dishes “just like Nonna would make”. Alongside their drool-inducing pasta dishes, the beloved restaurant also offers breakfast dishes like banoffee pancakes and pannacotta al cocco. You can also attend pasta classes, wine tastings and language lessons at Barbetta, so if you can’t afford airfare to Italy, head to Barbetta for a slice of the sun-soaked country in Sydney.
Where: 2 Elizabeth St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday: 7am-4pm, Thursday and Friday: 7am-10:30pm, Saturday: 7:30am-10:30pm, Sunday: 8am-4pm.
10 William St
This intimate, sophisticated spot, once visited by Dua Lipa, is one of Sydney’s best wine bars and restaurants. Known for its signature pretzel and whipped bottarga, an extensive natural wine list and a mouthwatering tiramisu, 10 William Street has gone from strength to strength since opening in 2011 by the Paradiso brothers. A perfect date night spot, this is definitely one to book.
Where: 10 William St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open Monday-Thursday: 5pm-12am, Friday and Saturday:12pm-12am.
The Paddington
Known for its golden rotisserie chicken, The Paddington sits neatly at the intersection of pub, restaurant and cocktail bar. Executive Chef Ben Greeno had the bright idea to install custom-made rotisseries into the joint, and they haven’t looked back. If you’re after premium chook and chips, this is the place to go.
Where: 384 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Tuesday-Thursday: 12pm-12am, Friday: 12pm-2am, Saturday 11am-2am, Sunday: 12pm-10pm.
CANESS
CANESS may be a newcomer, but it has already made a phenomenal first impression on Sydneysiders. The Middle Eastern and Mediterranean restaurant serves playful tapas plates and coastal wines, from boquerones en vinagre and seared tuna andulaz to mushrooms and celeriac shawarma. They also offer a stacked set menu with all their best dishes for $89 per person, which is finished off with a halva basque cheesecake. What more could you want?
Where: 348 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Tuesday-Thursday: 5:30pm-12am, Friday and Saturday: 12pm-12am, SundayL 12pm-10pm.
Cafés
The Hood
Tucked inside a beautiful black terrace on William Street, The Hood has become a go-to coffee haunt for Paddington locals. Nab a sun-drenched bench out front or slip into the leafy courtyard garden out back for a quieter perch. The toasties are a standout (think smoked ham with grilled pineapple, pickled jalapeño, oozy cheese and house-made honey mustard) while the drinks menu delivers everything from perfectly brewed coffees to inventive, beautifully balanced matchas.
Where: 21 William St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Saturday: 6:30am-4pm, Sunday: 7am-3pm.
Paddington Alimentari
One of, if not the, best Italian delis in Sydney, Paddington Alimentari is known for its delicious antipasti, great coffee and small, neighbourhood charm. Perch on the seats in the front of the deli, or head through to their shaded patio. The part shop, part cafe offers fresh bakes, authentic Italian pasta and sauces, as well as decadent cheese platters. If you’re craving a lowkey, local vibes with next-level produce, stop by this Hopetoun Street staple.
Where: 2 Hopetoun Street, Paddington, New South Wales 2021.
When: Monday-Friday: 7am-3pm, Saturday: 7:30am-3pm.
Apache Salute
This low-key neighbourhood espresso bar is another Italian-run gem. Perched on Boundary Street at the crossroads of Paddington and Darlinghurst, it’s a no-fuss favourite for generously stacked toasties, tasty breakfast dishes and modern Australian cuisine with Italian flair. Grab a table outside and soak up the atmosphere in one of the area’s most charming little pockets.
Where: 110B Boundary St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Friday: 6:30am-2pm, Saturday: 6:30am-12:30pm.
Mecca Coffee
This stylish, terracotta cafe with a prime location on Glemore Road has some of the best brews in Paddington, serving up premium, full-bodied blends. The Mecca Coffee baristas know what they’re doing, and although the cafe’s flagship in Alexandria offers a great brunch menu, their Paddo location strictly focuses on coffee, meaning it truly is some of the best in Sydney.
Where: Shop 4/2-16 Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open daily: 7am-4pm.
Brandon’s Paddington
Paddington’s newest caffeine haunt is all about matcha, coffee and sandos with seriously impressive cross-sections. On the menu? Coconut cloud coffees, hot honey salami toasties and Caesar wraps dusted generously in tangy parmesan. If inventive drinks are your thing and a morning without matcha is unthinkable, make a beeline for Brandon’s, tucked just behind Oxford Street.
Where: Rear Shop/70 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open Monday-Friday: 7:30am-3pm, Saturday and Sunday: 7:30am-3pm.
Sonder Cafe
Right in the heart of Paddington, Sonder has been a go-to brunch spot since opening in 2018. The menu puts playful, flavour-packed spins on classic Aussie breakfasts, serving up vibrant, eye-catching plates like the green goddess croissant, rhubarb toast topped with fried rosemary and ricotta, and a deeply rich, tomato-laden shakshuka.
Where: 227 Glenmore Road, Paddington, NSW, 2021.
When: Open daily, 7am-3pm.
Padre Coffee
Melbourne-born specialty roasters Padre bring their signature blends to Paddington’s Five Ways, pouring everything from expertly pulled espressos to nuanced single-origin brews. Pair your coffee with a flaky pastry and settle into the café’s clean, pared-back interior. Before you leave, stock up on beans and barista gear, from hand grinders to espresso machines, so you can recreate the magic at home.
Where: 241A-241B Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Friday and Sunday: 7am-2pm, Saturday: 7am-3pm.
Ampersand Cafe and Bookshop
Ampersand boasts over 30,000 books across three floors, making it the ultimate spot to curl up with a novel and a perfectly brewed coffee. Don’t miss their house-made chai, the indulgent Ampersand Benedict, Labneh eggs, or burnt eggplant on toast. For drinks, try a refreshing iced matcha or their fragrant turmeric latte in this cosy, book-filled hideaway.
Where: 78 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Friday: 7am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday: 8am-4pm.
Morris
Tucked away on Albion Avenue, away from the bustle of Oxford Street, Morris is popular with locals looking for a low-key spot with an innovative, Asian-influenced menu. Try their houjicha latte, their prana sticky chai, and their mango lassi smoothie, or opt for the Morris brekkie roll and bircher muesli.
Where: Shop 1/33 Albion Ave, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open Monday-Friday: 7am-3pm, Saturday: 8am-2:30pm, Sunday: 8am-2pm.
Bars and Pubs
The Village Inn
When plans to redevelop the 130-year-old Village Inn into retail space emerged in 2023, locals rallied to protect this Paddington institution, and their efforts paid off. Today, the pub remains a beloved spot for locals, visitors, and sports fans heading to nearby Moore Park. Beyond its reputation for serving one of Sydney’s rare perfect pints of Guinness, the Village Inn dishes up elevated pub classics, from crispy schnitzels and parmis to juicy wagyu burgers and perfectly beer-battered fish and chips.
Where: 9-11 Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Sunday-Monday: 12pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday: 12pm-12am.
The Royal
A Sydney institution since 1888, The Royal is famed for live sport, live music, cold beers, and classic pub fare. Take in panoramic city views from the rooftop bar, or linger on the charming wraparound balcony while sipping house wine with friends. For a decadent weekend treat, their $95 per person bottomless brunch serves up endless mimosas, bloody marys, beers, and sparkling wine alongside delicious bites.
Where: 237 Glenmore Rd, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open daily, 11am until late.
Paddo Inn
A favourite with Sydney Swans fans, the Paddo Inn is ideal for a pre- or post-AFL drink. By night, its lively dancefloor, rotating DJs, and carefully curated playlists make it a hotspot for a fun night out. During the day, it’s just as inviting: drop in for a casual drink, a glass of wine, or a burger, and soak up the sun on the charming side street just off Oxford Street.
Where: 338 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Thursday: 12pm-12am, Friday and Saturday: 12pm-1am, Sunday: 12pm-10pm.
Charlie Parker’s
Tucked beneath the iconic Fred’s, this Merivale bar treats cocktails like culinary creations, reimagining fresh, seasonal ingredients with a chef’s precision. Don’t miss their signature honey-based drinks, including the Gold Rush, crafted from the bar’s very own beehives. The small but inventive food menu hits all the right notes, with standout bites like raw beef with anchovy mayo, Bert’s poptato chips, Danish hot dogs, and Fougasse with Ortiz anchovies.
Where: 380 Oxford Street, Paddington, New South Wales, Australia.
When: Tuesday-Thursday and Sunday: 5pm-12am, Friday and Saturday: 4pm-12am.
Monica Rooftop
Fresh on the scene as part of the brand-new 25hours Hotel Olympia, this vibey rooftop bar has quickly captured Sydneysiders’ hearts. Sip on specialty cocktails, think picante margaritas, Monica’s daiquiri, and a tangy rhubarb and grapefruit paloma, while taking in sweeping city views. Impeccably styled and ultra-Instagrammable, it’s the perfect spot to soak up the skyline and snap a few envy-inducing photos.
Where: 1 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Thursday: 3pm-10pm, Friday and Saturday: 12pm-11:30pm, Sunday: 12pm-10pm.
The London
Paddington’s oldest pub, The London Hotel, has been a local favourite since 1875. Its menu is packed with classic pub hits, from crispy fish and chips and juicy burgers to pizzas (the Royal chilli chicken is a standout). Steak lovers rejoice: on Thursdays, enjoy a $22 steak served with fries, salad, and your choice of mushroom, peppercorn, chimichurri, gravy, aioli, or Paris butter sauce. Schooners are always flowing, and the lively, welcoming atmosphere keeps the good vibes rolling.
Where: 85 Underwood St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday and Tuesday: 12pm-9:30pm, Wednesday: 12pm-10pm, Thursday: 12pm-10:30pm, Friday and Saturday: 12pm-12am, Sunday: 12pm-8pm.
Shopping
Paddington Markets
The Paddington Markets have long been a place to find local designer fashion, intricate jewellery and imaginative artworks. Since 1973, the Paddington Markets have passionately encouraged local designers: Zimmermann, Lisa Ho and Dinosaur Designs got their start with original stalls here. Today, the market has more than 150 unique stallholders, plus a delicious array of international cuisine, locally baked bread and handmade sweets.
Where: 395 Oxford Street, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Every Saturday, 10am-4pm.
The Intersection
There’s no question that Paddington is a top destination for housing stylish Australian fashion brands, and this culminates at ‘The Intersection’, where Glenmore Road and Oxford Street meet. Discover all the best high-end Australian fashion labels here, from Sir, Zimmerman, Scanlan Theodore, St Agni, Flannel and more. The Intersection is also a celebrity hotspot, with stars like Hailey Bieber, Kim Kardashian and Victoria Beckham all spotted shopping here.
Incu
Every style-savvy Australian knows Incu. Stocking brands like Acne Studios, Ganni, A.P.C, Coperni, Damson Madder and Comme des Garçons, it’s where you go to get a super cool outfit (that will, unfortunately, break the bank). However, if you feel like treating yourself, start your Paddo shopping spree here; you won’t be disappointed.
Where: 258 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10am-6pm, Thursday: 10am-7pm, Sunday: 11am-5pm.
Dinosaur Designs
Louise Olsen and Steven Ormandy’s iconic Australian brand, Dinosaur Designs, is all handmade in their Redfern factory, just a ten-minute drive from their Paddo store. The powerhouse duo used to sell their resin products at Paddington Markets, and now have stores all over Australia. Shop for bold, maximal jewellery, gorgeous salad servers or organic form vases that make great gifts.
Where: 339 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Friday: 9:30am-5:30pm, Saturday: 10am-5pm, Sunday: 11am-4pm.
Hands
Another Oxford Street gem, Hands sells the cutest lifestyle gifts and home decor, from gorgeous pastel dishes to candles in the shape of stuffed olives and hand-blown glassware. If you want to up your homeware game, or you’re looking for a unique gift, make sure you stop by here. They also have a shop in Newtown on Australia Street.
Where: 255C Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Open daily 10am-5pm.
Libertine Parfumerie
Libertine Parfumerie is home to some of the most iconic fragrance houses, labelling themselves Australia’s number one niche perfumery. Their Paddington store is one of the most beautiful spaces on Oxford Street, and (of course) it smells divine. Even if you’re not looking for a new scent, stop by Libertine and enjoy the extremely aesthetic store.
Where: 134-140 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10am-5:30pm, Thursday: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 10am-5pm.
Sarah & Sebastian
Iconic Australian jewellers Sarah & Sebastian are known for their dainty tennis bracelets and signature fine jewellery. Positioned in a heritage-listed courtyard, the glamorous Paddington store also contains a hidden lower-level suite, hosting their luxury piercing and ear alchemy styling services. Try your luck and drag your other half to this sleek store, maybe you’ll come out with some new gems!
Where: 261/265 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday: 10am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday: 10am-5:30pm, Sunday: 11am-5pm.
By Charlotte
By Charlotte’s flagship Paddington boutique sits on the colourful William Street, in a beautiful, pastel pink corner store. Try on their jewellery in the light-filled store, ask for style advice and guidance from the staff, or book a session in the piercing studio. The beautiful boutique is impossible to miss along the bustling laneway, and even harder to resist stepping inside.
Where: 43 William Street, Paddington, NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10am-5pm, Thursday: 10am-6pm, Sunday: 10:30am-4pm.
BESS
This Sydney florist, also located on William Street, specialises in Australian native wildflowers and Australian-grown flowers. Owner Bess grew up on a native flower farm on the Central Coast and brings her knowledge to the heart of Paddo. They also sell candles and homewares, and host classes, from bouquet making to winter wreath workshops.
Where: 27 William St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Friday: 8am-5pm, Saturday: 8am-2pm.
Assembly Label
Inspired by Australia’s coastal landscapes, Assembly Label is the perfect place to shop if you’re after elevated, high-quality basics. Their spacious Paddo store is always teeming with fashionable locals, looking to achieve that effortless Aussie streetwear look.
Where: 262 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday and Friday: 9:30am-5:30pm, Thursday: 9:30am-6pm, Saturday: 9am-5pm, Sunday: 10am-5pm.
Min Butik
Tucked away in Paddington, Min Butik is a beautifully curated destination for luxury pre-loved fashion, championing high-end labels with a sustainable edge. Its clever rent-a-rack model lets you hire space for two weeks to sell your own quality pieces, or simply drop in and snap up treasures from someone else’s wardrobe.
Where: 202 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
When: Monday-Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 10am-4pm, Thursday: 10am-5pm.
Where to stay
25Hours Hotel The Olympia
Complete with an incredible rooftop bar (the aforementioned Monica), an incredible cafe, a top London restaurant, a cinema and the funkiest fitout, 25Hours Hotel The Olympia is one of the newest, but trendiest, hotels in Sydney. The hotel features 109 guest rooms, split into two categories: ‘Dreamers’ and ‘Renegades’, inspired by quintessential film protagonists. Rates start at $399 per night, a bit pricier than nearby hotels but definitely worth the price tag.
Where: 1-11 Oxford Street, Paddington, NSW 2021.
Oxford House
Known for its iconic courtyard and pool bar, Oxford House is often frequented by influencers with a cocktail in hand. That being said, the hotel is not too pricey, starting at around $200 a night. With 55 rooms, this urban sanctuary has a prime position on Oxford Street and is the perfect place to stay when exploring Paddo.
Where: 21 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
The Grand National Hotel
Perched on the quieter, tree-lined end of Paddo, The Grand National Hotel is undeniably a splurge, with Queen Studios starting at around $600 per night. But with just 14 beautifully appointed rooms set above one of the world’s most acclaimed restaurants, Saint Peter, the price tag feels justified. Book a stay and you’ll be rewarded with thoughtful luxuries (from Dyson hairdryers to marble fireplaces) all wrapped up in an intimate, design-forward escape.
Where: 161 Underwood St, Paddington NSW 2021.
Mrs Banks
Located right next to Paddington Markets, making it a short distance from Centennial Park and the SCG, this beloved boutique hotel used to be a heritage bank building and has been transformed into a bold, design-driven hotel. Rates start at around $210 a night, making it a popular choice for those dropping by.
Where: 259 Oxford St, Paddington NSW 2021.
Cover Image: Visit Paddington
