Feast at the Best Restaurants with Live Music in Sydney

The 5 Best Restaurants with Live Music in Sydney. The Vanguard, Sydney. Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.

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!

<strong>Armorica</strong>
Armorica Grande Brasserie. Photography by Jennifor Soo via Destination NSW

Armorica

Suave and sophisticated, Armorica Grande Brasserie in Surry Hills blends French culinary traditions with an unmatched atmosphere. Every Friday night, dine on a delicious French-inspired meal accompanied by live jazz and blues music. This makes Armorica an ideal spot to unwind with a side of soulful tunes. S0, whether you’re planning an intimate dinner or a lively group gathering, Armorica’s warm and inviting space makes every bite unforgettable.

More info

490 Crown St, Surry Hills NSW 2010

<strong>Babylon</strong>
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 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.

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Level 7/188 Pitt St, Sydney, NSW 2000
<strong>Esteban</strong>
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 our 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.

More info

1 Temperance Ln, Sydney, NSW 2000
<strong>Koutouki</strong>
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.

More info

138 Norton St, Leichhardt, NSW 2040

<strong>Mama Saan</strong>
Photography by Media_Photos via Shutterstock

Mama Saan

Based along Beach Road in Bondi, this vibrant bar and restaurant offers an eclectic mix of live jazz, funk, and soul performances three nights a week. With its unique blend of Asian-inspired cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails, Mama Saan provides a perfect place for a night out. Between a sensational Japanese fusion menu and top-notch local performers, Mama Saan is a must-visit for live music lovers.

More info

57/59 Beach Rd, Bondi Beach NSW 2026

<strong>Menzies Bar & Bistro</strong>
Menzies Bar & Bistro. Photography by Shell House via Destination NSW

Menzies Bar & Bistro

Menzies Bar & Bistro in Sydney is a must-visit for live music enthusiasts. Located at the bustling corner of Carrington and Margaret Street, this European-inspired bar and bistro offers a unique blend of history and hospitality. Enjoy snacks, shared plates, and main meals while being treated to a rotating selection of live music performances each season. The lively ambiance makes Menzies Bar & Bistro a perfect spot for an unforgettable night out in Sydney.

More info

37 Margaret St, Sydney NSW 2000

<strong>Restaurant Hubert</strong>
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!

More info

15 Bligh St, Sydney, NSW 2000
<strong>The Vanguard</strong>
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!

More info

42 King St, Newtown, NSW 2042

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.

Feature image: The Vanguard, Sydney. Photographed by Ken Leanfore. Image via Destination NSW.
This article was first published on September 18 2021. It was updated and edited by Hunter and Bligh on November 29 2024.

Written By

Rebecca Magro

I love pizza, perfectly shaken amaretto sours (extra points if served with maraschino cherries), horror films, as well as a hot summers day at the beach splashing around in the waves.