Sepia - Sydney CBD

Location: Within the Darling Park precinct on Sussex Street in the Sydney CBD. Parking is available beneath the building with elevator access through the tower complex, or enter on foot via Sussex Street.

Profiled by de groots media: Sitting on the cusp of Cockle Bay Wharf and the CBD, this quintessential Sydney restaurant has become a talked-about dining destination. From the eclectic but accessible wine list to the seafood-focused menu, the spotlight here is on quality. Embracing warm brown tones and elegant finishes, the Sepia dining room nods towards art deco design, with a grand marble and brass bar dominating centre-stage. Dim lighting and hidden nooks craft an intimate atmosphere, full of Old World charm and sophistication. Dapper waitstaff scurry about on black-and-white floors as the day’s catches are dressed to the nines.

The Sepia team is a winning match; seafood wholesaler George Costi and top chef Martin Benn have combined their passions for fresh produce, resulting in a menu full of the best catches from Aussie shores. Benn has rattled the pans in some of London’s and Sydney’s top restaurants, fusing modern European techniques with splashes of Japanese flavour. The extensive wine list is the cause of indecision, with page after delicious page of drops from across the globe. With more than 20 available by the glass, those who love the grape will be well sated here. A number of semi-private rooms can cater for functions of 10 to 40 guests, with set menus available for standing soirees of up to 100.

Lauren Barker