By Marie-Antoinette Issa.
Anchored by the soaring chrome-hued Crown casino, Barangaroo has firmly established itself as one of Sydney’s most dynamic dining destinations, evolving with an ever-expanding - and always impressive - spread of eateries.
From bustling cafes to destination restaurants, bars with sweeping harbour views and innovative pop-ups, the precinct has become a playground for food lovers, offering a vibrant mix of local and international flavours.
This October, The Streets of Barangaroo takes the dining experience up another notch with the 2025 Festival of Food, a celebration of culinary creativity, immersive experiences and the stories of the people behind the plates.
Building on the success of last year’s sold-out launch, the festival promises a full month of Chef-led experiences, showcasing boutique producers and premium dining in unexpected and engaging ways. From froyo takeovers to nostalgic Italian feasts, an array of venues along the precinct will offer pop-ups, tastings and interactive experiences that encourage visitors to engage with chefs and makers directly.
Highlights include the playful Yo-Chi × Andy Bowdy event on October 25, where Sydney’s dessert icon takes over the frozen yoghurt bar with outrageous toppings and gravity-defying creations, accompanied by a live DJ, creating a lively block-party atmosphere along the waterfront; and, Nonna Night at Gina, which really invites you to embrace La Dolce Vita.
Come Wednesday, October 29 from 6.30 pm to 9.30 pm, the dining room at Barangaroo’s aforementioned waterfront Italian eatery will host an intimate long-table dinner celebrating pasta in all its forms. Melbourne’s pasta King Andreas Papadakis (Tipo 00), rising talent Daniela Maiorano and Elizabeth Hewson of Saturday Night Pasta, collaborate to craft a menu inspired by the kitchens of their Nonnas.
Guests can expect handmade pasta, generous antipasti and recipes to take home, all served in a setting that evokes the warmth and charm of a European coastal trattoria.
While Gina is set to take centre stage for Nonna Night, the festival is designed to showcase the precinct’s full diversity and there’s plenty to pick from. Across more than 90 operators, visitors can explore premium restaurants, casual eateries, bars and cafes, discovering unique flavours and dining experiences. From seafood and sushi to tapas and gourmet street food, the precinct transforms into a playground for food lovers.
Whether sampling a bespoke cocktail, enjoying a sweet treat, or savouring a hand-rolled pasta, each event invites participants to slow down and appreciate the artistry of dining.
Beyond indulgence, the Festival of Food is about community and connection - a chance to meet the people behind the plates, hear their stories and taste the passion that goes into every creation.
With a mission to merge culture, creativity and culinary craft, it seeks to capture the essence of what makes The Streets of Barangaroo so dynamic: a place where local talent shines, international inspirations meet Australian produce and memorable experiences unfold against the backdrop of Sydney Harbour.
For food lovers, families and anyone seeking a memorable night out, the 2025 Festival of Food offers a month of discovery, delight and indulgence. Whether you start with a froyo frenzy, meander through tasting sessions, or linger over a long-table Italian dinner at Gina, the festival promises a celebration of flavour, storytelling and Sydney’s vibrant dining scene.
