To market, to market

The Sydney Fish Market is the beating heart of Pyrmont. Recently reopened, the market now boasts double the retail space of its former site, set within a striking new waterfront building. Inside, you’ll find more than 40 outlets, ranging from casual takeaway counters and traditional fishmongers to premium restaurants overlooking the harbour. Unsurprisingly, seafood steals the show. Expect freshly shucked oysters, oversized po’ boys, whole lobsters, buckets of king prawns and plenty of cooked-to-order dishes prepared straight from the tank. 

Linger longer to join a hands-on cooking class with Sydney Seafood School, or book one of the immersive tours. Options include the Behind-the-Scenes Tour, with exclusive access to the auction floor, or the Taste of Sydney Fish Market Tour, ideal for sampling specialties from multiple vendors.

Sydney Seafood School, Sydney Fish Market

Things to do

Nearby Union Square is brimming with colonial sandstone heritage. As the unofficial social hub of Pyrmont, it's a popular meeting spot for a range of tours, from guided walking tours about the area’s architecture and colonial history to Sydney Harbour cruises. It's also a great spot for boutique shopping, from funky clothing and gifts at Urban Oasis to handcrafted herbal teas at Golden Wattle Tea. Pirrama Park (formerly Pyrmont Point Park) is a delightful picnic spot with sweeping views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge, as well as a playground and barbecue facilities.

The Star is more than just a casino, it's an exciting entertainment complex comprised of fine-dining restaurants, bars, a food court, big-name shopping and a luxury hotel. It is perfectly positioned by the water with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Host to the Sydney Lyric Theatre, be sure to catch a world-class show – check out the events calendar for upcoming performances.

Sydney Lyric Theatre - Credit: Damien Ford, Sydney Lyric Theatre

Children love the Powerhouse Museum, which is all about interactive exhibitions covering technology, science, engineering and design (note: the museum is temporarily closed as it undergoes a revitalisation). Another interactive experience is sailing aboard Sydney Heritage Fleet’s James Craig, a tall ship built in 1874 and one of only four remaining working 19th-century barques in existence. About $30 million was spent restoring the James Craig to its former glory, and a day on the water comes with a gourmet lunch, morning and afternoon tea and an onboard bar.

Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo

Where to eat and drink

The Star is home to a number of acclaimed restaurants such as Sokyo, BLACK Bar & Grill, The Century, ELE by Federico & Karl, Cucina Porto and Flying Fish. Also in the neighbourhood, located on Wharf 10, is LuMi Dining, serving Italian food with a Japanese twist.

Flying Fish, Pyrmont - Credit: The Star Sydney

For more casual options, head to taqueria Nativo for Mexican with a native Australian twist, Mister Percy for pintxos and handpicked drops, Ikhwan Café for Malaysian fare, Calla for a café-style breakfast like no other, Mashi No Mashi for wagyu ramen and Quick Brown Fox Eatery for coffee or cocktails in a charming sandstone cottage.

Live music on Thursdays at Mister Percy - Credit: Ovolo Hotels

Discover one of Sydney’s oldest pubs, The Terminus, which was abandoned for three decades before being reborn. Nearby Quarryman’s Hotel boasts a rooftop and craft beer on tap. Meanwhile, Gallon is perfect for a laid-back glass of wine and small bites in a leafy courtyard. Savour mouth-watering food and drink events too, such as the annual Pyrmont Festival of Wine, Food and Art in May. For a comprehensive guide to Pyrmont's food and drink offerings, click here

Quarryman’s Hotel Rooftop, Pyrmont

Getting there

Getting to Pyrmont is easy. Walk from the city centre to Darling Harbour and over one of the oldest electrically operated swing bridges in the world, Pyrmont Bridge, which opened in 1902. Or take the light rail from Central Station or Chinatown to Pyrmont Bay, The Star and the Sydney Fish Market.