For food lovers in Sydney, there's no better guide than a MasterChef. Manu Feildel, the charismatic French judge known for his exacting palate and warm demeanour on MasterChef Australia, has finally unveiled his personal little black book of Sydney's culinary treasures.
A Culinary Tour From Breakfast to Late-Night Feasts
Feildel's gastronomic map of the city covers every craving and occasion. He starts the day at Bills in Surry Hills, a legendary institution famed for its ricotta hotcakes and scrambled eggs that have achieved near-mythical status among Sydneysiders. For a more rustic start, he heads to Sonoma Bakery in Waterloo, a beacon for artisanal bread and pastries that embodies the city's thriving craft bakery scene.
Lunchtime Favourites & Hidden Gems
When lunch calls, Feildel's choices reflect his French heritage and love for robust flavours. He is a devoted regular at Victor Churchill, an ultra-premium butcher in Woollahra that is more like a foodie temple than a simple shop. Here, he savours their renowned steak sandwich, a masterpiece of simplicity and quality. For a taste of authentic Italian, he recommends Gelato Messina in Darlinghurst, though not just for dessert—their pasta dishes are a well-kept secret amongst locals.
An Insider's Dinner Picks
As the sun sets over the harbour, Feildel's dinner recommendations showcase Sydney's world-class dining. He praises the modern Australian fare at Chiswick in Woollahra, where the kitchen garden-to-plate philosophy creates stunningly fresh dishes. For a special occasion, he suggests the sophisticated French cuisine at his own establishment, Bistro Rex in Potts Point, highlighting the duck parfait and steak frites.
More Than Just Food: Manu's Sydney Experience
Feildel's guide goes beyond mere restaurants. He shares his love for the vibrant atmosphere of the Fish Markets, a sensory overload of fresh seafood and bustling energy. He also points food enthusiasts towards Pioik Bakery for a unique taste of traditional Armenian bread, proving his culinary curiosity knows no bounds.
This curated list from one of Australia's most trusted culinary voices offers a unique blueprint for exploring Sydney's diverse and delicious food landscape, from the iconic to the unexpectedly brilliant.
