From wonder-inducing light displays, thought-provoking discussions and experiences, music that moves, and the best of the world's cuisines, Vivid Sydney offers full sensory immersion.  

Key to this is Vivid Sydney's Food program, which serves up an opportunity for both visitors and locals to gather, try something new and connect over a meal before heading out to be wowed by Light, Music and Ideas.   

To help you feast, snack and refuel your way through the 23 nights of the festival, we've pulled together the top unmissable food experiences for Vivid Sydney 2024 below.  

Travel the globe via your fork at Vividplace Food Trail 

Step into a bustling night market in the pedestrianised laneways of Sydney Place and Bulletin Place for VividPlace Food Trail. There you can explore over 20 cafes, restaurants, and bars serving up their delicious fare until late.  

Mi goreng toasties, rare Japanese whiskey, fresh-churned gelato, one-off Vivid Sydney specials – try it all amid vibrant light at this pop-up market. Stop in before or after catching the spectacle of the nearby Light Walk.  

Enjoy the sizzle and smoke of Vivid Fire Kitchen 

As humans, we're drawn to fire – there's something special about the flavour of food that's been perfectly cooked using this primal source of heat. Smoky, succulent, crisp, caramelised – there's nothing quite like it. That's why Vivid Fire Kitchen is a must visit.  

Food trucks, markets and barbecue stands will serve the best Filipino, Spanish, Sudanese, Lebanese, Greek, Mexican, Italian dishes, and much more.  

Once you've had your fill of fire, it's time for ice(-cream). Pop over to Messina Milk Bar for a classic Australian milk bar treat given a fun twist by the cult-favourite gelato brand. Not up for gelato? Grab some flame-kissed s'mores or a fresh Berliner doughnut back in the heat of the Fire Kitchen action.  

Snap, sample and sip at Aster 

For those wanting an elevated Vivid Sydney experience, Aster offers an unrivalled view AND offering. Perched high within the InterContinental Sydney, this rooftop bar boasts panoramic views and a Vivid Sydney-exclusive menu that champions sustainability and innovation. Delight in the bespoke cocktails and a special two-course meal as you observe the Light Walk from this incredible vantage point. Plus, you'll be able to post the best 'gram going.  

Luxurious experiences under $55 

Vivid Sydney is all about offering experiences for all to enjoy, no matter the taste or budget. This year, you can sit at the bar at Sydney Opera House's iconic Bennelong Bar and enjoy a special snack and drink by Peter Gilmore for $55. A Vivid Sydney exclusive opportunity to experience what The New York Times dubbed the “holy grail of Australian restaurants” for an incredible price point.  

If you'd prefer a full meal but still want the stunning views (and excellent price point) head to House Canteen for Taste, See, Connect. Here you can sit right below the Sydney Opera House sails and enjoy a pan-Asian feast. Dumplings, sushi, share plates, dessert and an incredible view of the harbour painted with Vivid Sydney lights. All for $49! Amazing value, in one of the best Vivid Sydney vantage points. 

Dine with purpose 

This year you can dine and make a difference at Vivid Sydney with  Plates with Purpose – A Taste of Ukraine and Our Shared Humanity. At Kyiv Social's Plates with Purpose, you can immerse yourself in Ukrainian culture and cuisine with a 10-course degustation. Here, each delicious mouthful will help support Ukrainian refugees through Plate it Forward.  

Or dine at Refettorio OzHarvest for Our Shared Humanity where top chefs like Alex Prichard, Darren Robertson, Orazio D'Elia and more create innovative, delicious vegetarian fare from rescued ingredients, all while helping feed Sydney's vulnerable communities. 

Discover something new!  

There are plenty of hidden gems scattered like pomegranate seeds across the Vivid Sydney Food program. One of the most dazzling though, has to be Atelier by Sofitel, where a French-inspired menu and an unexpected view of the Light Walk await. Seen from the Darling Harbour point of view, the vantage point here allows you to take in a lesser seen perspective of the stunning Vivid Sydney lights. You'll also walk away with a bespoke booklet packed with stories, chef anecdotes and the recipes from your meal. A sensory experience to treasure for years to come.  

The VividPlace Food Trail and Vivid Fire Kitchen will both be a smorgasbord of interesting and new dishes from around the globe, in particular you'll be able to sample street food sandwiches from Sudan at Vivid Fire Kitchen and elevated Korean omakase at the Food Trail. Plus, the Messina Milk Bar will be serving up their Vivid Sydney exclusive warm Milo fudge sundae, so get your spoons ready. If you're into fusion food and keen to try something new, catch Mitch Orr for Our Shared Humanity. The Kiln head chef is well known for his creative, unexpected and delicious combinations and he'll be sure to turn this vegetarian menu on its head.  

From local favourites to international delicacies, Vivid Sydney Food is a chance to explore, connect and indulge. So, grab your mates, dates or relates and set off on a culinary adventure that's as dazzling as the lights of Vivid Sydney. 

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