Friday, April 25th 2025: Nestled in the heart of Sydney’s most historic precinct, The Garden offers a fresh take on relaxed daytime dining. Set within the open-air surrounds of a heritage-listed building from 1826, this al fresco venue is quickly becoming known as one of the best places for lunch in Sydney. Whether you’re a city worker stepping out for a casual lunch in Sydney CBD, a tourist exploring the laneways, or a local searching for the best lunch at The Rocks Sydney, The Garden is the ideal retreat.
By day, The Garden invites guests to unwind beneath lush greenery and enjoy glimpses of Sydney Harbour. Located within The Collective, the 100-seat space blends heritage charm with modern style, providing the perfect backdrop for everything from a long lunch to a quick midday break.
Seamlessly combining historical character with contemporary elegance, The Garden offers a dining experience like no other. Few lunch venues in Sydney CBD can match this blend of heritage significance and natural beauty, making it one of the best lunch spots in The Rocks.
City workers appreciate the convenient location for business lunches, while tourists value the authentic Sydney dining experience just moments from the harbour. Its central position makes The Garden one of the best lunch restaurants in Sydney—ideal for those seeking quality and atmosphere without compromise.
The all-day menu at The Garden is thoughtfully designed to showcase fresh, seasonal ingredients. With a balance of light, vibrant dishes and indulgent comfort favourites, it stands out among the best lunch places in Sydney CBD.
Begin your lunch with freshly shucked Sydney Rock Oysters, served with champagne and chive mignonette. For a refreshing start, the Heirloom Cucumbers with white grape and fresh cheese deliver light, clean flavours, while the Garden Salad—featuring beetroot, feta, and sourdough croutons—celebrates seasonal produce at its finest.
For something more substantial, the King Prawn Roll with gribiche Marie Rose is perfect for a leisurely lunch with views of Sydney’s iconic harbour. The Wagyu Cheeseburger with shoestring fries offers an elevated twist on a classic lunch favourite, while the Pan Roast Daily Fish with salsa verde highlights the kitchen’s commitment to fresh, sustainably sourced seafood.
No meal at The Rocks feels complete without the perfect drink pairing. The Garden serves a range of artisanal coffee for those seeking a refined midday caffeine boost. As the afternoon unfolds, the focus shifts to an elegant selection of signature cocktails, each thoughtfully crafted—an inviting way to ease into a leisurely lunch that flows effortlessly into the early evening.
Adding to its weekend lunch offerings, The Garden features live music to enhance the dining experience. On Saturdays from 2 pm to 9 pm and Sundays from 1 pm to 8 pm, local musicians bring a vibrant energy to the space, creating the perfect soundtrack for your meal. This seamless blend of culinary enjoyment and musical ambience makes The Garden one of the most appealing lunch destinations in the Sydney CBD.
For those in search of the best lunch in The Rocks, The Garden delivers a standout combination of heritage surroundings, contemporary cuisine, and natural beauty. Enjoy a seasonal menu paired with handcrafted drinks, all served within a relaxed and welcoming setting. Join us at The Garden for a fresh and flavourful lunch in The Rocks Sydney—the perfect midday escape.
*The Garden practices the responsible service of alcohol. Drink responsibly.