Music and a meal — experience the true charm of Sydney’s nightlife at these live music restaurants!
Forget those awkward moments where the conversations run short. At these restaurants with live music you’ll be singing, tapping and clapping your way through your next meal.
If you’re interested in finding a new experience to try, a romantic date night spot or somewhere invigorating for some last-minute plans, this list will be your ultimate guide to the best restaurants with live music in Sydney!
Photographed by Steven Woodburn. Image supplied.
Babylon
Making our list as one of the Best Rooftop Bars and Middle Eastern Restaurants in Sydney, it comes to no surprise that this Aladdin’s cave for adults is also one of the best restaurants in Sydney with live music. Opening their doors in early 2019, Babylon continues to be Sydney’s go-to for Middle Eastern food. Sitting on top of Sydney’s most renowned shopping precincts, Babylon is the perfect destination for a hearty meal or a delicious cocktail. With two large bars, a wood-fired kitchen, an outdoor terrace and private dining spaces, this vast space can hold up to 800. Babylon draws in the flora, fauna and ocean of the Middle East right in the heart of Sydney.
Photographed by Jennifer Griffin. Image via Unsplash.
Esteban
Mexican cuisine and music go hand-in-hand. And that’s exactly why the Sydney CBD restaurant, Esteban, has made out list as one of the best Sydney restaurants with live music. With great traditional food and even better drinks (topped with a whole lot of tequila), the vibe at Esteban is like no other! To help you tap your feet along as you feast, be sure to visit on the first Saturday of the month for their Laneway Music and Margaritas. With a live Mexican mariachi trio and an extended happy hour special, you’d be loco not to visit this hidden gem.
Photographed by Ryzhkov Photography. Image via Shutterstock.
Koutouki
What’s better than live music? Mezze of course! Tucked along Norton Street in Leichardt, Koutouki is one of our favourite Greek restaurants. Feeling like a traditional taverna, Koutouki stands out from the rest thanks to their live Greek music hosted on every Friday and Saturday night. For your visit we’d recommend the Grilled Octopus, Spanakopita, the beef Moussaka and, to finish, Baklava and Galaktoboureko. Fully licensed, you’ll also be pleased to know that 90% of their menu is gluten free. Transporting you to the heart of Greece, it’s easy to see why Koutouki is one of the best places in Sydney for live music and a meal.
Photographed by Jem Cresswell. Image via Destination NSW.
Restaurant Hubert
When we think of one of the best restaurants with live music in Sydney, the first that comes to mind is Restaurant Hubert. Located in Sydney’s CBD, this full-service restaurant by The Swillhouse Group will transport you to an underground oasis in post-war Paris. With dim lighting and worn-timber furnishings, this lavish French-style parlour is perfect for date night, afterwork drinks and, most importantly, an extraordinary meal. Also making our list, The Best Steak Restaurants in Sydney, be sure you check their website for their live jazz nights in the Beatrix Dining Room — a dining experience every foodie and music lover must try!
Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.
The Vanguard
It comes to no surprise that Newtown’s The Vanguard has made this list as one of the best places with live music in Sydney. Nestled within King Street, The Vanguard is all about good food, live music and burlesque cabaret. The ultimate destination for dinner and a show, we recommend checking out their website and booking ahead for your next night out. Whilst you’re here, be sure to try the Perfect Lady Grey made with gin, earl grey tea and creme de peche. Yum!
For modern Australian cuisine and more, check out this list of the Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants in Sydney. Or swirl through Sydney’s Best Italian Eateries of 2023.
