NOMAD Sydney — Restaurant in Sydney

Nomad Sydney is a very well established place and is constantly packed. The environment was spacious and the staff were experienced. It was a very well running organized restaurant despite the amount of customers and staff members involved. But I cannot recommend this restaurant.

Firstly, Hygiene. The head chef, while experienced in the kitchen, did not have the best sense of hygiene. After touching commonly touched and most likely somewhat unhygienic surfaces (such as order receipts, permanent markers, and the serving counter), he would wash said hands on his apron instead of other more hygienic methods. While he doesnt touch food often, if you order the kingfish (which has chips) or bread, he's likely to touch said foods or season them with his hands. Although I can't fully say it's a cause of food poisoning, my girlfriend and I had some tummy problems and diarrhea. It might not be due to his hygienic practices, but there may be other practices in the restaurant that may also contributed. If the head chef is excused from optimal hygienic practices, it's possible other staff members are not held to that same standard. Another example was when an order receipt flew out from its clasp in the kitchen and landed into some food (I believe it looked like a mash potato puree). The chef responible took the receipt out and procedeed to serve the food anyways. I believe a fine-dining restaurant should be held accountable and also practice optimal hygiene.

Secondly. food. Out of the foods I have ordered, I believe the fried zuchinni was most memorable. But the other foods were not to my liking. I could not understand the pricing behind said foods. While the majority of people may argue that fine dining is an expereince and should not be seen on a monetary basis, I believe it is fair for fine dining to then live up to said expected standards. The lamb shoulder was cooked well and tender, but was the experience memorable? No. Was the kingfish and chips memorable? The taste was fine (easily re-enacted with some guacamole, some sashimi, and some taco chips), but after witnessing said hygienic practices, a very resounding no. The only memorable part of Nomad was that I will never return again.

Nonetheless, staff members were very kind, but were never quick to respond. Good luck trying to give them a call after 7pm. They communicate best with each other as a team, but its as if they have no room to talk...

Visited on a weeknight — place was buzzing with people. We shared a variety of small plates and drinks. Would return only because the menu rotates often. Overall experience: 3.5 stars.

Service could have been better. One waitress (sorry I didn’t get her name!) was super friendly and explained each dish in detail — really stood out. But the rest of the staff just placed plates down without a word (even felt rude at times) which felt off for Nomad’s usual standard.

Sparking Water - $30 The price was for 4 of us

Oysters (6pcs) – $42 Not bad but not worth $7 each. ❌ Would not order again (feel it isn’t value for $) ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Black Sesame Lamington Cocktail - $25 Unique and interesting — a rare flavour done well. ♻️ Would order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Death in the Valley Cocktail - $25 Refreshing and easy to drink (can’t taste the alcohol!), but on the syrupy side. ♻️ Would order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Flatbread & Carrot Hummus - $26 Crispy outside, soft smoky inside — so good with the carrot hummus (which was amazing), but would get sick of it if I ate it by myself ♻️ Would order again to share ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Denial Is A River Cocktail - $27 ❌ Would not order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Cauliflower Blossom w/ Truffle Honey - $32 A little too sweet — could use more spice or truffle to cut through. ♻️ Will order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kingfish Crudo - $34 Asian chilli vibes (老干妈), but needs more citrus to balance. Nice if you want something light. ♻️ Would order again if needed ⭐️⭐️⭐️½

Scallops – $13 each Just okay — not worth the price. Would’ve been better if treated more delicately. ❌ Would not order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Carrots - $24 ❌ Would not order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spatchcock - $55 Crispy skin, juicy meat — a bit salty but nice with the sour cream-ish sauce. ♻️ Might order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Eggplant - $26 Weird taste. Have had way better. ❌ Would not order again ⭐️⭐️

Loose Leaf Cocktail - $24 Smells lovely like tea, but taste was overpowering. ❌ Would not order again ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Chocolate Mousse - $24 Spiced chai flavour upfront, smooth texture, but too intense for one person. Definitely share. ♻️ Would order again to share ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Olive Oil Ice Cream - $26 So smooth and light — all of us finished ours. ♻️ Would definitely order...

5/5 stars I've been coming to Scary Canary for years, and it's always my go-to spot when I'm in the mood for a great cocktail. Lou, the bartender, is an absolute legend! She's got a passion for his craft, and it shows in every drink he makes. The atmosphere is always lively and fun, with a great selection of tunes and a cozy vibe. The cocktails are inventive and delicious, with something for everyone. From classic favorites to unique concoctions, Lou's always happy to recommend something that suits your taste. But what really sets Scary Canary apart is the service. Lou is always attentive and friendly, making sure you have everything you need. She got a great sense of humor, too, which makes even the most mundane conversations feel like you're chatting with an old mate. I've tried plenty of other bars in the area, but Scary Canary will always be my first choice. Thanks Lou for keeping me coming back!

I've been living at Nomads Sydney for a few days now, and I have to say it's been an amazing experience! The hostel is super social, with a great atmosphere and a fantastic location in the heart of the city. Zara and George, the two most attentive staff member , are absolutely fantastic! They're always happy to help with any questions or concerns you may have, and they really go above and beyond to make sure you have a great stay. From organizing events and activities to helping you book tours and restaurants, they're always on hand. The room is clean and comfortable, with everything you need for a great night's sleep. The kitchen is well-equipped and spotless, making it easy to cook up a storm (or just grab a quick breakfast on-the-go). I've met some amazing people here, from all over the world, and it's been a great place to make new friends. The hostel also has a great pool table and TV area, perfect for unwinding after a long day of sightseeing. Overall, I'd highly recommend Nomads Sydney to anyone looking for a fun and social place to stay in Sydney. Thanks again to Zara and George for making my stay...