During these times of lockdown and uncertainty, sometimes the only thing that can get us through is a good, tasty, comforting and heartwarming meal. But when your energy is low and motivation is not far off, the last thing you want to do is slave for hours in the kitchen only to clean it up again (the worst). Thankfully, some of the best restaurants, cafes and bars in Sydney are here to save us, offering up the best takeaway dishes and meals to get us through these trying times.

Although it might not be the same as dining out, there's nothing to say that you shouldn't treat yourself with an extra indulgent breakfast, lunch or dinner meal in the name of self-care. Which, in all honesty, should probably be a tax deduction... Not only do you get to enjoy a delicious takeaway meal, but you are also supporting some of the best eateries and small businesses in Sydney. What's more Australian than helping one another?

Whether you're craving belly-warming pho, a decadent French meal for date night or a New York-style pizza to enjoy on the couch, we have you covered. No matter where you are, here are 39 of the best restaurants in Sydney offering takeaway.

City

Image credit: @bistrot916, @pinapottspoint, @restauranthubert

 

1. Fratelli Paradiso, Potts Point

Everyone's favourite Italian restaurant Fratelli Paradiso is now offering two different cook-at-home menus through Providoor; which is great news for everyone. Not only do you get to put your chef skills to the test, but you also get to enjoy the sweet taste of the Lasagnetta once again. Everyone's happy.

2. Restaurant Hubert, CBD

Similarly to Fratelli Paradiso, Restaurant Hubert is bringing its French bistro charm into your home through Providoor. You can pick from their banquet menu offering, and even select extra of their signature dishes if you're craving something in particular. Dim the lights and you're in Paris.

3. Piña, Potts Point

When you finally get over dirtying your kitchen every morning in the name of a 'good breakfast', cut your losses and head to Piña ASAP. Whether you go for their sourdough pancakes or scrambled eggs with homemade chilli oil, this neighbourhood cafe never disappoints and is always busy – so make sure you order in advance.

4. Sushi E, CBD

If you're missing date night or want to have an indulgent Saturday night dinner with your roommate, Sushi E is offering some of the freshest Japanese food and sushi boxes ready to eat. The menu is pick-up only and is based on a limited production order, so if you live close enough, this is one takeaway meal not to miss.

5. Bistrot 916, Elizabeth Bay

Bistro 916 has brought back its Duck and Cheese Meal Deal Thursday-Sunday until sold out and it's the highlight of our week. The restaurant is also offering an array of fresh seafood on its takeaway menu including a caviar service if you're feeling extra boujee.

 

Eastern suburbs

Image credit: @10williamst, @loxinabox, @bistromoncur

 

1. 10 William St, Paddington

If you've been craving 10 William St's pretzel and bottarga, you're not alone. Thankfully, this Paddington local is officially offering a 'fun pack' with all of their signature dishes that you can order in advance and assemble at home. Which, gives you both something to do and a delicious meal. And if you happen to be walking by this Saturday, poke your head in for some of the delicious treats they'll be selling at the rebooted '10 William Shop'.

2. Cafe Nino, Woollahra

Delicious, classic Italian food and pasta done right. Cafe Nino is perfect for those days when only carbohydrates will do. Which frankly, in lockdown, is everyday. You can never go wrong with the ravioli and a side of garlic bread.

3. Rocker, Bondi

Rocker in Bondi is still offering their Taco Tuesday menu during lockdown and thank god. If the first two days of the week have already been way too hard, you'll be pleased to know that their margarita specials are also available. What are you waiting for?

4. Fish Butchery, Paddington

There was never a doubt that chef Josh Niland would deliver with his takeaway offering at Fish Butchery. You can either get in to order one of his delicious Mr Niland at Home meals (which run Wednesday-Sunday), or you can pop in to order off the takeaway menu. If it's your first time ordering, you can't go past a classic – the crumbed fish and chips – or the Yellowfin Tuna Double Cheeseburger for something special.

5. Bistro Moncur, Woollahra

Celebrating an anniversary, birthday or simply craving an indulgent dinner? Look no further than Bistro Moncur to spice up your weeknight dinner. And yes, you can order drinks too for the full restaurant fare.

6. Lox in a Box, Bondi

If you haven't yet tried the bagels from Lox in a Box, now is your chance. Whether you prefer a classic lox bagel or want to try the pastrami reuben or chicken schnitzel, there's an option for all. Each bagel also comes with a healthy side of crisps and pickles – as it should.

 

Western suburbs

Image credit: @harveyshotsandwiches, @gigino338, @gotphosydney

 

1. Harvey's Hot Sandwiches, Parramatta

Even if you've never been to Harvey's Hot Sandwiches, you definitely know the name and have seen their one-of-a-kind New York deli sandwiches all over Instagram. For a major bout of nostalgia, be sure to order one of their famous floats on the side.

2. Gigino, Fairfield West

You can never go wrong with pizza from Gigino's. Woodfired, packed with flavour and made with love, their fior di latte mozzarella, pork sausage, gorgonzola cream and potato pizza is one of the best in Sydney. And don't forget dessert – tiramisu always.

3. Holy Basil, Canley Heights

Sugar, spice and everything nice perfectly describes the authentic Thai and Laos cuisine that is served at Holy Basil. The restaurant's curries are perfect for a chilly winter's night and even their satay chicken skewers taste different. Delicious, humble and always tasty.

4. Mikazuki Ramen & Sushi Bar, Parramatta

Mikazuki has garnered a name for itself for offering delicious modern Japanese food without the exorbitant price tag. You'll find everything from ramen to the freshest nigiri and even green tea mochi to finish off. The hardest part is trying not to order the whole menu.

5. Got Pho, Carlingford

There's nothing that warms the heart and mind like a good, wholesome bowl of pho. For those days when you need a little extra comfort, order a heart meal from Got Pho in Carlingford – the closest thing to medicine.

6. Cicciabella, Paramatta

It's no secret that Cicciabella serves up some of the best pasta in the West. Thankfully, the Paramatta restaurant is back doing pick-up takeaway from Wednesday-Saturday so we can finally get our fix again. Some dishes you can expect – fragrant Fregola with Prawns, Pollo alla Milanese and their famous Banoffee Pie.

 

Inner West

Image credit: @babasplace, @continentaldeli, @valentinassyd

 

1. Belly Bao, Newtown

I've been told on very good authority that Belly Bao's spicy noodles are up there with some of the best. If bao is more your cup of tea, then don't worry because the Newtown restaurant has plenty to choose from. The crispy tofu and crackling roast pork belly bao always hit the spot.

2. Urbano Coffee, Homebush

Family-owned Urbano Coffee in Homebush not only makes delicious pizza, their shop has also become a local go-to for delicious pastries, sweets and freshly-baked bread every morning. We recommend getting in early though, because these crunchy loaves never last.

3. Babas Place, Marrickville

One of the first places I will be heading to when lockdown is over is Babas Place, but until then, we can all get a healthy takeaway craving fix. Serving up the type of food you know well if you grew up in your grandmother's kitchen, their wholesome, flavour-packed food always hits the spot. Don't forget to grab a can of Aldi soft drink to go. If you know, you know...

4. Continental Deli, Newtown

Even pre-lockdown, Continental Deli has always served up some of the best subs and sandwiches and stocked its shelves with the best produce money can buy. Ortiz anchovies we're looking at you. My pick is the Meatball and Parmigiano Reggiano sub with a canned Mar-tinny or two to go.

5. The Fold, Dulwich Hill

Some of the best Sri Lankan food you'll find in Sydney, The Fold is the meal you want if you feel like being transported. Every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, the restaurant is offering its Sri Lankan feasts for two. Choose your protein, then pick your two vegetables, then round it out with some sambols, rice and papadum and of course dessert. All for $75.

6. Valentinas, Marrickville

If a homemade B&E roll simply won't cut it, head to all-day Marrickville diner, Valentinas for one you won't forget. An all-American eatery with an Australian touch, make sure you don't leave without a slice of their banana cream or blueberry pie.

 

Northern suburbs

Image credit: @pilurestaurant, @dunespalmbeach

 

1. Oceans, Narrabeen

This is a local favourite for so many. The food is fabulous and the location is as good as it gets. I highly recommend the Oceans Wednesday takeaway special - $20 steak.

2. Pilu Baretto, Freshwater

If breakfast is your favourite meal of the day, this is an essential. The menu is fresh, light and but also comforting. I highly recommend the pancetta and provolone roll.

3. Dunes Kiosk, Palm Beach

Another breakfast essential in a picturesque spot. It has all your breakfast favourites topped off with some excellent cold-pressed juices. Definitely try the watermelon iteration.

4. Avanti's Pizzeria, Cromer

If you know, then you know. In fact, I might actually get in trouble for spilling the beans on the locally-treasured secret. Avanti's does hands down the best pizza. A Friday night essential.

5. Riccardo's, Narrabeen

For total and complete comfort eating, it has to be Riccardo's. This place has the best Gnocchi al Ragu or Pasta Sorrentina.

6. The Bower, Manly

If you want to enjoy some Views with a capital V during your food pick up, try here. Look our in particular for the weekend brunch deal that occasionally pops up - $15 for a B&E roll plus a bloody Mary.

7. Thai & I, Dee Why

Thai Food is some of the best comfort food - an essential for these unappealing times. And Thai & I in Dee Why is some of the best. Their intensely fragrant Panang Curry is the best.

 

Southern suburbs

Image credit: @bakingwithvk, @rushicronulla, @kostastakeaway

 

1. C.C. Babcoq, Cronulla

Chicken and chips takes on a new meaning at the Cronulla rotisserie shop C.C. Babcoq. If you're craving a traditional dining experience, the takeaway shop's next-door restaurant is also serving its menu takeaway – including all their cocktails.

2. Baking with VK, Blakehurst

Baking with VK offers up some of the most delicious and indulgent sweet treats – freshly baked to order. Reward yourself for making it through another week of lockdown with a serving of their Biscoff Caramel Slice or signature Vegan Fudge Brownie Cookies.

3. Kanji Sushi, Caringbah, Sylvania & Gymea

If you call the Sutherland Shire home, you know there's no better sushi than Kanji. Made fresh to order and with an overwhelming variety of fillings to choose from, you can never go wrong. They also sell dishes like donburi and offer an excellent bento box if you're feeling particularly peckish.

4. Kostas Takeaway, Rockdale

Relatively new on the scene but having already made its mark, Kostas Takeaway is serving up some of the best sandwiches in the south and excellent coffee too. With both a signature menu and regular specials, Kostas is the perfect mid-week lunch option.

5. My Mother's Cousin, Bexley North

We might not be able to get to New York right now, but My Mother's Cousin is serving up some incredible pizza pies and chicken wings – which will get us pretty close. Settle in for a Saturday movie night and make your way through their menu. We can assure you that you'll be coming back for more.

6. Rushi, Cronulla

You haven't had scrambled eggs until you've tried the Parmesan Scrambled Eggs from Rushi in Cronulla. The front window is also always stacked with delicious baked goodies, and the cafe is currently doing its Tuesday sushi special all throughout the week during lockdown. Definitely worth a try.

 

Takeaway drinks

Image credit: @alphabetst, @pnvmerchants, @_drnks_

 

1. P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants

Thankfully, one of our favourite bottle shops, P&V Wine + Liquor Merchants is still open. If you don't live in Paddington or Enmore, the store is also doing delivery to an extended Sydney area, which means you can order online and have a selection of excellent drops delivered straight to to your door.

2. Alphabet St

Alphabet St is home to arguably the best Apple Martini in Sydney (quite possibly, Australia). If you're yet to try and live in the area, make it your Saturday-night mission to order a healthy serving of their delicious takeaway cocktails. The ultimate bonus? Alphabet St offers up the most delicious Thai/Asian fusion cuisine in the Sutherland Shire. So, you can get your drinks and a meal all in one place.

3. DRNKS

DRNKS is delivering the best in natural and organic wines to our front door and we couldn't be more grateful. Order in a pack (for efficiency, of course) or by the bottle if you prefer. For the non-drinkers, they also have an excellent selection of non-alcoholic beverages for you to enjoy. If you live in inner Sydney, you can also order delicious meals from some of the best food vendors with your wine. Be sure to check-out their site for exact delivery dates and all other information.