Whether it’s spurred by a viral chalkboard outside a British café, or makes national headlines, thanks to a comedy show, the question of “should children be allowed here?” looks like it is here to stay. One side of the fence wants to relax in spaces without kids. The other side of the fence finds that notion unthinkable.
It’s not exactly news that Australians are having fewer children. In fact, the latest report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics has the country’s fertility rate at 1.63 — the second lowest it has been since the ABS started recording in 1934. With that, restaurants around the country might feel they don’t have to cater to kids as much as they once did. Some establishments are taking a step further. They are making their dining experiences adults only — no children allowed.
Despite the backlash places might receive for adopting an adults-only policy, it hasn’t deterred restaurants from the trend. In Sydney alone, we’re seeing plenty of places lean in and take on a no-kids mantra. While there is a stack of great dining options, across a range of cuisines and experiences, that cater to kids and families, the below restaurants are perfect for those who want to get the sitter in and indulge.
Kin Dining & Bar
A personal fave nestled in a nook next door to Marrickville Station, this hidden gem of the inner west is all about the atmosphere. It’s both chic and cosy — perfect for a rainy evening — but still maintains an air of elegance. Artwork splashed with black and gold adorns the walls, contrasting beautifully with the emerald, cushioned chairs, giving the entire place a sophisticated feel. But friendly staff and indulgent share plates invite you to relax and unwind.
Kin Dining & Bar is a hotspot for the growing trend of Nikkei cuisine. A seamless amalgamation of Japanese and South American cuisine, Kin chef Peter Wu has curated a menu that’s refreshing but still packs a punch. The yuzu-wasabi kingfish ceviche and burrata atop chimichurri are the perfect insight into what the menu offers, and the best way to kick off your evening at Kin. Follow it up with the nduja-topped rib-eye and the truffle mushroom pasta you’ll be thinking about for days (spoken from personal experience). It’s a menu where each item feels exciting, so you’ll want to plan multiple visits.
And a meal at Kin wouldn’t be complete without a cocktail — and we can’t recommend the house cocktail, The Kin, enough. Salted caramel, pineapple and agave — what more could you ask for?
Now, Kin is a place that’s luxe enough for a special date night or occasion, but relaxed enough if you just need to unwind after work. But, after 5pm, Kin Dining & Bar is strictly adults-only — to truly help both parents and non-parents escape. Don’t worry, kids are still welcome at Kin for lunch on the weekends.
The Gidley
While opulent steakhouses don’t really lend themselves to being child-friendly, The Gidley has put a firm stamp on it. All guests here must be 18 years or older. But, if you grab a small group of friends, you’ll be amazed at what’s inside this walk back in time found at the corner of Elizabeth and King in Sydney’s CBD.
This upscale restaurant, brought to you by the Liquid and Larder group, oozes old-fashioned charm. Think plush velvet booths, mahogany panelling, and a touch of Parisian mystery – all bathed in a warm, inviting glow. The menu is a celebration of premium Australian beef, with perfectly cooked cuts sizzling fresh off the grill. Complement your meal with a glass of wine from their extensive list, or explore their creative cocktails.
What really makes The Gidley special, though, is its Library. Hidden behind a door that reads ‘PRIVATE’, the Library intimately seats eight people around a dining table. What lies under the dining setting, though? A custom-built, professional poker table. Only available by private hire, you’d want to leave the kids home for this one regardless.
Quay
Now, some restaurants allow children of a certain age to dine. Quay, for example, will let any child over seven enjoy Peter Gilmore’s iconic menu.
Quay, one of the country’s most famous restaurants thanks to its head chef, its view and its snow egg, lives up to its reputation. Diners are seated in a stylish dining room overlooking the iconic Sydney Harbour, Opera House and Bridge glistening in the distance. You can expect playful and creative dishes that turn classic flavours into something new and exciting. Think unexpected ingredients and textures — native freshwater marron, with sea urchin and confit egg yolk all on one plate.
Children seven and up are welcome to dine at Quay, so it’s not quite adults-only. But just note that there is no children’s menu available.
Mjolner
From some very southern restaurants straight to the north, Mjolner doesn’t just serve food — it offers a full, Nordic experience. It sports grand interiors inspired by Valhalla’s feasting halls, but also reminiscent of a toasty inn offering an oasis from the cold. Intricate carvings, shields, and even axes adorn the walls. The menu itself is a hearty homage to Viking cuisine, with menus inspired by Norse gods and goddesses. Don’t look past the short rib or rainbow trout — modern takes on ancient classics.
The drinks menu goes even further to tie into Norse culture. Beyond the renowned drinking horns, Mjolner sports a selection of signature cocktails, containing everything from popping candy to caper brine.
Located in Redfern, Mjolner encourages adults-only dining, but allow children 10 or over to dine. However, there is no children menu available.
Related: Behold, North Sydney’s New Dining Scene, With More Than Just Cafés and Takeaway Shops
Related: Matt Moran on the Sydney Restaurant Everyone Should Visit at Least Once
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